From October 21-November 1, 2024, world leaders are going to be gathering in Cali, Colombia for the 16th Conference of Parties of the Convention on Biological Diversity – also known as COP16, or NatureCOP. We are excited to have two West Coast staff lawyers joining them. Keep reading to learn why and take action for nature.

The Andrew Thompson Award honours individuals who have demonstrated an outstanding contribution to environmental protection and sustainability in British Columbia through the law. In recognition of West Coast’s 50th Anniversary, the theme of this year will be “50 Years of Changemakers for Environmental Justice."

Throughout West Coast’s history, we’ve been committed to transforming the legal landscape in ways that are more sustainable, more democratic and more just. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we’re reflecting on five key moments that have made the organization into what it is today.

The newly released Coastal Marine Strategy ushers in a new era of collaborative and sustainable management of the BC coast.

As the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion (TMX) commences operations, we reflect on key questions that remain after more than 10 years fighting for climate action, land and water protection, and Indigenous self-determination.

Our RELAW (Revitalizing Indigenous Law for Land, Air and Water) program has reached its eight-year milestone. Read along as we reflect on powerful themes from our collective learning and celebrate eight years of making an impact.

Critters, rejoice. Canada appears to be in an era of renewed attention to wildlife and the lands and waters they need to survive and thrive. 

Last year at this time, Vancouver was the centre of the marine conservation world, as the city hosted the 5th International Marine Protected Areas Congress (IMPAC5). The Congress brought together attendees from far and wide to make progress on global marine protection goals.

Join us in calling on the Senate to pass Bill C-226, An Act respecting the development of a national strategy to assess, prevent and address environmental racism and to advance environmental justice.