Call for Proposals: Greenbelt Biodiversity Grant Program (Canada)

Deadline: 08-Feb-2026

The Greenbelt Biodiversity Grant Program engages students in biodiversity inventories and native species planting on school grounds near Ontario’s Greenbelt. The program teaches ecological concepts, human impact on ecosystems, and hands-on conservation skills while offering grants from $2,500 to $5,000 for spring planting projects.

The Greenbelt Biodiversity Grant Program provides schools an opportunity to involve students in biodiversity assessment and ecological restoration. Students learn to identify, count, and analyze plant species on school grounds and implement planting projects using native species to enhance ecological health.

Objectives of the Program

The program aims to:

• Increase student knowledge of biodiversity and its ecological and human importance

• Promote hands-on experience in ecological data collection and analysis

• Encourage observation of natural patterns, species distribution, and human impacts

• Develop teamwork, planning, and organizational skills among students

• Restore local ecosystems by planting native species appropriate for school grounds

Eligibility

• Schools located on or within 5 kilometres of Ontario’s Greenbelt

• Schools must be able to complete a plant inventory

• Must incorporate the Greenbelt Biodiversity action in their EcoSchools Certification Application

• Plan a spring planting event with native species

• Obtain approval from the school administrator or landowner

Grant Details

• One grant of $5,000

• Four grants of $2,500

• Funding supports spring planting and related biodiversity activities

Program Structure and Activities

The project unfolds in four stages:

1. Preparatory Activities

• Introduce biodiversity, plant taxonomy, and key ecological concepts

• Engage students in research, games, and observation exercises

• Build foundational knowledge for species identification

2. Data Collection

• Divide school grounds into zones

• Record all plant species, including population estimates

• Note distinguishing features using field guides or plant-identification apps

3. Review and Analysis

• Compile and refine species lists

• Identify species-at-risk or invasive species

• Analyze human activities that negatively affect ecological health

• Recommend conservation actions based on observations

4. Planting and Maintenance

• Select native species suitable for each habitat type and field data

• Conduct spring planting events

• Develop a care and maintenance plan to ensure plant survival and ecological benefits

Learning Outcomes for Students

By participating, students will:

• Understand the importance of biodiversity and ecological balance

• Develop skills in observation, data collection, and ecological analysis

• Gain knowledge of native species and habitat restoration techniques

• Learn to identify human impacts on ecosystems and propose solutions

• Enhance collaboration, planning, and project management skills

How to Apply

1. Confirm school eligibility based on location within 5 km of Ontario’s Greenbelt

2. Complete a plant inventory of the school grounds

3. Add the Greenbelt Biodiversity action to the EcoSchools Certification Application

4. Plan a spring planting project focusing on native species

5. Obtain administrator or landowner approval

6. Submit the application for consideration of one of the available grants

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Selecting non-native or unsuitable species for planting

• Neglecting to complete the plant inventory before applying

• Failing to obtain administrator or landowner approval

• Not incorporating the Greenbelt Biodiversity action into the EcoSchools Certification

• Ignoring proper care and maintenance plans for newly planted species

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who can participate?
Students in schools located on or within 5 km of Ontario’s Greenbelt.

How many grants are available?
Five grants: one for $5,000 and four for $2,500.

What activities are required?
Plant inventory, biodiversity data collection, native species planting, and project planning.

Are non-native species allowed?
No, only native species are eligible for planting.

Do students need prior ecological knowledge?
No, preparatory activities provide foundational learning.

Is administrator approval required?
Yes, approval from the school or landowner is mandatory.

How are species identified?
Using field guides, plant-identification apps, and observation of distinguishing features.

Conclusion

The Greenbelt Biodiversity Grant Program empowers students to engage directly in ecological conservation and biodiversity education. Through structured inventory, analysis, and native planting projects, students contribute to healthier school ecosystems while gaining valuable scientific and environmental skills.

For more information, visit EcoSchools.