Our Commitment To Sustainability
Growing A Greener Future.
The Project We're Supporting is the Reforestation in Cariboo, BC.
Between 2017 and 2021, British Columbia suffered some of the most destructive wildfires in its history, burning more than 1.3 million hectares of land. The fires were so intense that they scorched the soil, destroyed wildlife habitats, and devastated the traditional hunting and food sources of nearby Indigenous communities. This project is helping to restore those ecosystems - rebuilding biodiversity, revitalizing soil, and supporting community recovery.
THE PROJECT
Working with our trusted partner Zanzibar, this project focuses on reforesting burned areas around Cariboo and Williams Lake through assisted natural regeneration. By planting a diverse mix of species—including Douglas-fir, Lodgepole Pine, Ponderosa Pine, Hybrid Spruce, and Western Larch—the project aims to rebuild the region’s forests and stabilize heavily eroded soils. Restoring the area will take an estimated 13 million trees and several years of planting and monitoring, but the outcome will be a rejuvenated ecosystem that supports both wildlife and local communities.
LOCATION
Cariboo / Williams Lake, British Columbia, Canada - Coordinates: 52.0468° N, -123.3079° W This region was severely impacted by the wildfires of 2017, 2018, and 2021, which destroyed vast sections of forest and left behind burn scars, erosion, and loss of critical habitat for both wildlife and Indigenous communities.
OUR PARTNER
Ecodrive works with Zanzibar, who lead the on-the-ground restoration, coordinating local crews and applying best practices for soil rehabilitation and seedling survival. Verification is handled by veritree, which provides transparent tracking of planting data, photographic evidence, and growth monitoring to ensure accountability throughout the reforestation process.
THE PROCESS
The reforestation process is designed for long-term recovery rather than short-term coverage. Seedlings are carefully selected for their ability to thrive in the post-fire soil conditions of interior British Columbia, and are planted during optimal seasonal windows to maximize survivability. Planting typically occurs within 6–8 months of funding, followed by an additional 3–4 months for verification and reporting. Over time, the mix of coniferous species will create a more climate-resilient and biodiverse forest than before the fires.
COMMUNITY/ ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
This project helps restore trees, livelihoods, habitats, and cultural connections. Wildlife Recovery: Reforestation reestablishes habitat and food sources for local species including Deer, Elk, Bear, and numerous bird species. Indigenous Stewardship: Restoring these lands supports Indigenous communities who rely on them for hunting, gathering, and cultural practices. Soil and Water Restoration: Replanting reduces erosion, improves soil fertility, and helps prevent flooding and runoff. Community Renewal: By bringing jobs, training, and long-term stability to the region, the project helps local residents rebuild their futures.
METRICS AND STATISTICS
Forest Type: Post-fire Interior Douglas Fir zone Estimated CO₂ Sequestered: 1.08 tonnes per tree Planting Window: Typically 6–8 months post-funding Verification Period: 3–4 months post-planting Total Trees Needed: ~13 million over multiple years
VERIFICATION AND EVIDENCE
Initial Verification: Conducted by veritree once planting is complete, confirming tree counts, coordinates, and photo evidence. Ongoing Monitoring: Regular updates track survivability rates, soil recovery, and canopy development. Annual Reporting: Transparent impact reports are shared yearly, summarizing total trees planted, CO₂ sequestered, and ecological recovery progress.
Sustainable Development Goals Supported
How This Project Helps Build a Better World:
