Groundbreaking Climate Initiative

In a groundbreaking move aiming to combat climate change, a coalition of families and foundations across Canada has pledged an impressive $405 million over the next decade. This significant commitment highlights the imperative actions needed to tackle the escalating climate crisis impacting every corner of our lives.

Key Contributors

Leading the charge is the renowned Trottier Family Foundation, contributing a remarkable $150 million, closely followed by the Peter Gilgan Foundation with $100 million. Other key contributors include the Ronald S. Roadburg Foundation ($18 million), the Chisholm Thomson Family Foundation ($15 million), David Keith and Kirsten Anderson ($10 million), Sitka Foundation ($6 million), Vohra Miller Foundation ($5 million), and Allan Shiff, who has pledged $1 million. Notably, the Ivey Foundation is reaffirming its commitment with an additional $100 million.

Impact of Climate Change

Sylvie Trottier, board member of the Trottier Family Foundation, emphasized the pervasive influence of climate change. She remarked, 'This issue affects all aspects of our lives—our communities, our economy, and our ecosystems. As the planet continues to warm, its effects will only intensify.' Trottier elaborated on how climate change exacerbates existing problems such as inequality and food security, making it a top priority for their philanthropic efforts.

Climate Champions Initiative

This pledge was made under the Climate Champions initiative, part of the Clean Economy Fund, which seeks to accelerate commitments to climate philanthropy—a sector where Canada has unfortunately lagged. In 2022 alone, climate-related philanthropy totaled approximately $106 million, marking less than 1 percent of the total philanthropic contributions in Canada, significantly below the global average of 1.6 percent.

Ambitious Goals

With an ambitious goal to triple annual contributions towards climate initiatives by 2030, the fund aims to increase climate-related giving from around $100 million to over $300 million. 'Climate change is impacting our lives more than ever,' stated Luke Gilgan from the Peter Gilgan Foundation. 'We are proud to be part of this historic effort and encourage all Canadian philanthropists to step up for climate solutions.'

Philanthropy's Role

Trottier articulated that this funding represents a decisive 'quadrupling down' on climate grants that could foster significant advancements for a clean, safe, and healthy future. Her comments highlighted the foundation's prior initiatives, such as the Canadian Electric School Bus Alliance aimed at replacing diesel buses with electric alternatives by 2040. 'Philanthropy has been pivotal in bringing together various stakeholders to brainstorm solutions,' she said, pointing out a successful increase in electric school buses in Quebec, a model that could be replicated across the country.

Collaborative Efforts

Each of the nine foundations will be responsible for implementing their specific climate commitments while collaborating through the Climate Champions initiative. Trottier reiterated the important role of philanthropy, stating, 'While it cannot solve climate change alone, it can catalyze action from government, industry, and civil society.'

A Shift in Philanthropic Priorities

This landmark pledge signals a shift in philanthropic priorities in Canada, potentially sparking a chain reaction that inspires greater corporate and governmental involvement in the battle against climate change. The urgency to act has never been clearer, and these foundations are paving the way for a more sustainable future. Stay tuned as we continue to follow this pivotal development in Canada's climate action efforts!