July 22, 2026

The importance of nature-based solutions — and listening to Mother Nature

Photo: Stephano Lihedule

We cannot afford to ignore Mother Nature when she speaks. And last week, with forest fires burning across Ontario and affecting millions, Mother Nature was clearly calling out for help.

At the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada, we’re listening — and together with our partners, we’re taking action. Last month, our CEO — Bella Lam — visited one of our projects in Tanzania, and she saw firsthand how community members are protecting the environment and advancing nature-based solutions to climate change.

In the clip seen here, community members are making biocharcoal briquettes — and having fun. The briquettes are used for fuel, as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional charcoal.

While she was there, Bella also spoke with these women about how eager they were to make these briquettes, how this work has helped them become more resilient, and how they are encouraging other community members to protect nature and use biocharcoal.

In the weeks and years ahead, we’ll keep advancing community-led conservation initiatives and supporting nature-based solutions like this — to address the impacts of climate change, and to create brighter futures for people both here at home and across Africa.

To everyone involved in this project — including the community members, the Peter Gilgan Foundation, Jane Goodall Institute Tanzania, Cascadia Seaweed, Plan International Canada, and Global Affairs Canada — we’re grateful for your hard work and support.