CWF and Partners Launch Canadian Centre for Nature-based Education

OTTAWA, Ontario, Oct. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Canadian Wildlife Federation (CWF) and partners in conservation are thrilled to launch the Canadian Centre for Nature-based Education (CCNbE). This new collective aims to enhance hands-on, nature-based learning experiences in schoolyards, communities and public green spaces across the country.

“We’re building this centre to thrive on collaboration,” said Mike Bingley, director of the CCNbE and director of education for CWF. “NGOs, government entities, foundations and other groups in the nature and/or education space that share our belief in the power of partnership and nature-based education are invited to get involved. Whether you’re a teacher, a youth leader, a community volunteer, or simply someone who loves nature, there’s a way to take part.”

The CCNbE will align its work around the National Environmental Learning Framework that is being developed through a partnership of NGOs and governments across Canada that focuses on key priorities including:

Hands on nature-based learning embedded in schoolyards, communities and public green spaces across CanadaEquity-driven access to outdoor education for Indigenous, rural, urban and underserved communitiesCareer connected learning that builds green skills and supports Canada’s transition to a sustainable economyTraining and support for educators to integrate conservation, climate actions and biodiversity education with confidenceNational co-ordination and impact tracking to align efforts and measure progress on environmental literacy and stewardshipFunding for nature-based education across Canada

“The launch of the CCNbE marks a pivotal moment in CWF’s mission to inspire and empower Canadians to engage with and in nature,” said Sean Southey, CEO of CWF. “By fostering a deeper understanding of the environment and promoting hands-on learning experiences, CWF aims to cultivate a generation that values and protects Canada’s rich natural heritage.”

CWF is delighted the following initial partners are joining us in co-launching this important organization:

407 ETRAlberta Wildlife FederationApathy is BoringAston Family FoundationCanadian Wildlife FederationCentre for Global EducationChristie Lake KidsEcoSchools CanadaEsri CanadaExploring by the Seat of Your PantsFédération québécoise des chasseurs et pêcheursGirl Guides of CanadaiNaturalist CanadaInternational Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) North America Regional OfficeIUCN Commission on Education and CommunicationNational Wildlife FederationNorth American Association for Environmental EducationOntario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) FoundationOrganización para la Educación y Protección Ambiental (OpEPA)PEI Wildlife FederationReForest LondonSaskatchewan Wildlife FederationTamarack InstituteThe Green HeronsThe Kenauk InstituteUniversity of Waterloo, School of Environment, Resources and Sustainability (SERS)Vancouver Island University, Faculty of EducationYukon Fish and Game Association

For more information, visit ccnbe.ca.

About the Canadian Wildlife Federation:

The Canadian Wildlife Federation is a national, not-for-profit charitable organization dedicated to conserving Canada’s wildlife and habitats for the use and enjoyment of all. By spreading knowledge of human impacts on wildlife and the environment, carrying out actions to conserve and restore species and habitats, developing and delivering conservation education programs, advocating for changes to government policy and programs, and co-operating with like-minded partners, CWF encourages a future in which Canadians can live in harmony with nature. For more information, visit CanadianWildlifeFederation.ca.

Contacts:

David DeRocco
Senior Manager, Marketing and Events
[email protected]
(613) 599-9594 x 279
(905) 975 4672 (cell)

or

[email protected]

The Green Herons of St. Catharines, Ont.

“We have seen the power that comes from being a community, and if we all do our part, and keep sharing our stories and experiences, our planet will heal and be beautiful for many generations to come,” said Dane Currie, founder of the environmental club for seven-12 year olds.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5f094ea4-38f6-4cf6-80c7-dc5e0fbc71c1