Our new priorities for environmental grants will be directed to projects that work toward the following long-term outcomes:

Air
Protection of the atmosphere, including clean air, and the mitigation of climate change

Deteriorating air quality and climate change are each of great concern for Canadians. There is more and more evidence that individuals who are exposed to air pollution (especially in urban and industrial areas) may be at higher risk for developing respiratory problems and other health effects - particularly the elderly, children and others who suffer from asthma and bronchitis.

There is also scientific support that suggests the globe is warming as a result of human activity, primarily as it relates to the use of traditional forms of energy production. How we heat our homes and get to and from work and school has a profound impact on local air quality and more global issues such as climate change.

Alberta Ecotrust will favour those projects and policy initiatives that address clean air, which often have a co-benefit of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. For example, introducing a city-wide initiative to promote walking, biking and busing rather than driving helps to reduce particulate matter, nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds (smog precursors) and will also reduce greenhouse gases.

Other examples of project addressing the protection of the atmosphere include:

• Demonstration projects that illustrate the use of renewable energy
• Public education programs regarding energy efficiency and conservation "walking school bus" initiative whereby parents take turns walking children to school
• Local initiatives encouraging car pooling and other alternative means of commuting such as the Commuter Challenge
• Public engagement in urban land use planning initiatives such as Smart Growth.
  

Wilderness
Protection and restoration of wilderness, natural areas and wildlife habitat.

Alberta Ecotrust will favour initiatives that identify and protect remaining natural areas (or critical areas capable of being restored to more natural conditions), improve the management of critical wildlife habitats, provide ecological connections among "core" wildlife areas, and demonstrate compatibility of human activities with wildlife conservation in areas where those activities already occur, including sustainable urban and suburban planning.

Preference will be given to the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains, riparian corridors, remnant prairie and coulee areas capable of sustained ecological contribution, boreal areas and critical habitats adjacent to existing protected areas.

Projects addressing protection of critical lands could include:

• Scientific analysis of wildlife – road interaction in key wildlife corridors
• Engagement of landowners in understanding and implementing land management practices beneficial for wildlife
• The development of tools to facilitate effective public engagement in land use discussions
• Public education programs on the benefit of wildlife corridors and intact wilderness areas for maintaining biodiversity

Water Quality and Quanitity

Protection and conservation of water and/or the maintenance of water quality

Currently in Alberta, issues related to water are emerging as a significant environmental priority. Critical to all aspects of life and economic interests in Alberta, it is increasingly apparent that we must manage our water resources wisely.

Alberta Ecotrust will favor projects that utilize a variety of strategies to mitigate negative impacts on water quality and quantity ranging from local stream cleanups to a watershed approach to planning. Projects and policy initiatives that address issues related to wetlands, riparian and in stream health, land use activities that impact surface and/or groundwater, health risks, urban runoff and conservation strategies are all areas requiring additional activity in Alberta.

Projects addressing the protection of water sources could include:

• Installation of a xeriscaped urban garden, which demonstrates the use of water tolerant, native species in landscaping
• A public education campaign urging people to change behaviors in their home to limit their use of water
• Initiatives aimed at helping homeowners understand the stormwater system in their town or city and how their activities influence water quality
• Aquatic ecosystem educational programs for youth whereby students conduct water quality testing and learn about their impact on the local system
• A basin-wide initiative that engages multiple stakeholders in promoting best practices in watershed management