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Taking Action Facing Wildfire: A Youth Climate Corps Perspective

  • Youth Climate Corps BC
  • Jul 20, 2023
  • 2 min read

Recent weeks have witnessed the harrowing impact of wildfire smoke, leaving millions exposed to health risks. As climate-related disasters persist, it's time for governments to step up and address the climate emergency head-on.


In British Columbia, a deadly heatwave and devastating flooding are haunting memories. Yet, we find ourselves witnessing repeated records of destruction. How many lives must be endangered before we see decisive action?


Youth Climate Corps BC (YCCBC) believes in empowering young voices to drive change. We're committed to action, which is why we stand with brave young Ontarians, like Alex Neufeldt, who took legal action against the Ontario government's climate target rollback. As YCCBC, we understand that the health and well-being of future generations depend on urgent climate action.


In April, our legal allies at Ecojustice obtained a landmark decision recognizing the disproportionate impact of climate change on youth and Indigenous Peoples. Although our initial case faced setbacks, we won't back down. We're pushing forward with an appeal, determined to secure a livable future for all.


Young people worldwide are leading the fight against the climate emergency. We organize in our schools, communities, and workplaces, marching on the streets and even stepping into courtrooms. The risk of a climate catastrophe due to politicians' decisions is ever-increasing, compelling us to stand firm.


Our resolve is unwavering because we understand that a safe and sustainable future is our right. Together, we forge ahead, defending our future with unwavering determination.

Join YCCBC in taking climate action today and ensuring a brighter tomorrow! Click here to support YCCBC.

Addressing Wildfire Mitigation: YCCBC in Action!

YCCBC is actively working on wildfire mitigation in vulnerable communities. In specific regions, we empower youth to take the lead in creating resilient strategies to combat wildfire threats.


In partnership with local authorities, our youth crews engage in:

  • Community Fire Preparedness: Educating residents on wildfire prevention, evacuation plans, and fire-resistant landscaping to enhance community safety.

  • Ecosystem Restoration: Restoring fire-prone ecosystems and adopting sustainable practices to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires.

  • Emergency Response Training: Equipping young leaders with the skills to support emergency responders during wildfire events.

  • Home Hardening: Assisting homeowners in making their properties wildfire-resistant through structural modifications and hazard mitigation.


By fostering a culture of preparedness, we empower communities to face the wildfire challenge head-on. Together, we're building a resilient future, safeguarding lives, and protecting the environment.

We are committed to maintaining and growing respectful relationships in every region where we work.

 

YCCBC recognizes that colonization has deeply disrupted Indigenous Peoples’ relationships with their lands, communities, and cultural practices. We understand that the climate crisis is rooted in ongoing systems of colonialism and resource extraction—systems that became possible through the dispossession of Indigenous Peoples from their homelands.

We believe that Indigenous sovereignty is essential to building just futures and liveable worlds. YCCBC is committed to listening, learning, and walking in solidarity with Indigenous communities and to supporting Indigenous-led climate action across the province.

ABOUT US 

Youth Climate Corps BC develops the climate leaders of tomorrow by training a workforce of young people who know how to work together, communicate powerfully, and get things done on projects that contribute to climate resilience in communities across British Columbia.

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YCCBC headquarters is grateful to be located on the traditional and unceded lands of the Sinixt, the Syilx, and the Ktunaxa. 

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© 2026 by Youth Climate Corps BC.

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