Vernon, BC [Sept. 2, 2020] – In early 2021, the voice of British Columbia’s organic sector will have a stronger digital presence and a refreshed look. The Certified Organic Associations of British Columbia (COABC) received $60,565 in funding from the Governments of Canada and British Columbia to be put towards the enhancement of online tools as well as the modernization and review of the BC Certified Organic Program (BCCOP) checkmark logo.
“COABC is doing great work to support the organic sector in British Columbia,” said the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “These initiatives will help COABC adapt to meet the needs of growers and consumers to ensure the continued growth and resiliency of the B.C. organic sector.”
The COABC’s new, collaborative online space will engage B.C.’s organic sector on all levels, from producer to consumer, and will provide better support through improved tools, information and resources. As well, the project will also include a licensing review and revitalization of the BCCOP checkmark logo, which signifies the product is certified organic and produced in B.C.
With an improved communications platform and a stronger digital presence, the COABC will amplify its voice, more effectively support B.C.’s organic sector, and increase awareness of organics in B.C. and beyond.
“I’m excited to see the Certified Organic Associations of British Columbia grow, so organic farmers have more resources, and British Columbians who choose organic products can easily identify those grown and made in our province,” said Lana Popham, B.C.’s Minister of Agriculture. “Our government is committed to building a resilient food system in B.C. and these updates will help organic farmers and processors increase the presence and awareness of local organic food in communities across the province. This is good news for B.C. farmers and good news for people who Buy BC.”
Said COABC’s Executive Director, Eva-Lena Lang, “It is with great enthusiasm that I thank Minister Popham and the BC Ministry of Agriculture, as well as Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Minister Bibeau, for their generous support. Improving our communications platform will increase COABCs capacity to better support members, operators and consumers, and align an organic B.C.”
The support was provided through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a federal-provincial-territorial $3-billion investment in support to strengthen the agriculture and agri-food sector.
About COABC
The COABC is an umbrella association representing organic certifying agencies in British Columbia. The organization administers the organic accreditation program in B.C. and supports and advocates for a stronger, more resilient organic sector.
Media Contact:
Eva-Lena Lang
COABC Executive Director
250-260-4429
ed[at]certifiedorganic.bc.ca
