For the Citizens of Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN), culture is not just history—it’s a living, breathing way of life. Rooted in the land, water, and traditions passed down through generations, WLMN’s cultural retention efforts are about preserving knowledge, strengthening identity, and ensuring that Métis ways continue to thrive for generations to come. Living in Balance with the Land Métis identity is deeply connected to the land. As Kyle Whitford, WLMN’s Indigenous Guardian, describes, “My role is to be the voice for the land, the water, and the animals around us.” The traditional practices of hunting, fishing, and trapping are more than survival skills—they are acts of stewardship. These practices teach respect for nature and reinforce the belief that all elements of the ecosystem are interconnected. Cultural retention at WLMN means ensuring that future generations understand this relationship. Through the Nation’s on the land initiatives like fish camps, harvest camps, and berry-picking gatherings, knowledge keepers share essential teachings about sustainable harvesting, land stewardship, and traditional food systems. These opportunities are not just about learning Métis traditions; they are about living them. Sharing Knowledge Across Generations Knowledge is meant to be shared, not stored away. For many Métis families, cultural teachings are passed down informally—through time spent on the land, storytelling, and community gatherings. Kyle recalls growing up with his grandfather, learning to trap, hunt, and live off the land. “I couldn’t tell you the first time I went hunting because I was doing it before I could even remember,” he shares. Today, WLMN ensures that these teachings remain accessible by opening their cultural camps to anyone willing to learn. Métis and non-Métis people alike are invited to experience firsthand the harvesting traditions that sustain both people and the land. “It’s not just about retaining our culture,” Kyle explains. “It’s about showing others what Métis ways truly are.” Bridging Traditional Knowledge and Western Science In a world where industrial development and environmental concerns often collide, WLMN is working to bring balance. The Nation’s sustainability department is integrating Métis knowledge with Western science to monitor and protect the land. Programs like the Oil Sands Monitoring program allow the community to scientifically validate what Elders and land users have always known—that environmental shifts impact everything. Kyle highlights the importance of this approach: “For years, Elders have said the moose are getting more ticks, that the water is changing, that the land is shifting. Now, we can prove it in ways that industry and government understand.” This ability to translate traditional knowledge into data strengthens WLMN’s advocacy efforts and ensures that Indigenous voices are heard in environmental decision-making. Strengthening Métis Identity Through Community Métis culture is not just about land use—it’s also about the values that hold the community together. Generosity, sharing, and hospitality are at the heart of WLMN’s cultural retention efforts. As Kyle recalls, “Growing up, my grandmother always had food ready for visitors. If we got a moose, we shared it with the Elders and families in need.” This spirit of community continues today. Whether through organized cultural programs or informal knowledge-sharing, WLMN ensures that Métis traditions of care, respect, and togetherness remain strong. Looking to the Future Cultural retention is about securing a future where Métis ways of life continue to thrive. Willow Lake Métis Nation’s efforts to blend traditional knowledge with modern tools, pass down teachings, and advocate for environmental stewardship all contribute to a legacy that will last for generations. As Kyle puts it, “I want my work to pay off 50, 60 years from now. I want my nieces and nephews to be able to look back and say, ‘Kyle and the sustainability team made sure our ways were still here.’”  Through cultural retention, WLMN is ensuring that Métis identity remains not just a memory, but a way of life.

For the Métis people of Willow Lake, the land, water, and animals are not just resources—they are relatives. The environment is woven into every aspect of Métis life, from sustenance to spiritual connection, and protecting it is a responsibility carried forward by each generation. As Kyle Whitford of the WLMN sustainability department explains, his role is to be “the voice for the land and the water and the animals around us.” This responsibility isn’t just about conservation; it’s about listening to what the environment is telling us and ensuring that industry, government, and future generations hear it too. A Duty to Protect the Land for Generations to Come For Kyle and many others in the Nation, environmental protection isn’t an abstract idea—it’s about survival, both now and in the future. “My family and a lot of families in our community and our Nation, we actually rely on the fish, the animals for consumption. It’s our bread and butter, I guess you could say,” he shares. This deep reliance on nature means that any harm to the land or water directly impacts the well-being of the people. “We’ve got to uphold a good, healthy environment for future generations,” Kyle states. Holding Industry Accountable While environmental sustainability has always been part of Métis culture, modern industry presents new challenges. Willow Lake Métis Nation works directly with industry partners to ensure development is done responsibly. “We’ve got to hold accountability for them,” Kyle explains, “and that all boils down to our water, animals, and everything in between.” This accountability isn’t about shutting down development—it’s about working together in an ethical space where everyone benefits. “I don’t know if you ever heard of [Dr. Elmer] Ghostkeeper,” Kyle says, referencing a well-known Indigenous leader, “but he mentioned how important it is to want to work in an ethical space with industry and our community members — where everybody has the same goal and is working in peace and harmony.” The Ecosystem is a Delicate Balance Kyle and his team understand that every element of the environment is connected. “If you take one section out, one living organism or one animal, everything gets unbalanced.” He refers to an example from Yellowstone National Park, where the reintroduction of wolves completely reshaped the landscape. “The wolves would eat the elk, so the elk wouldn’t eat the vegetation by the river, which allowed the riverbanks to stay strong. It all had to do with the beavers and everything being interconnected.” This understanding is what drives the Nation’s environmental efforts. “Our goal is to keep everything in balance where we monitor fish, animals, and the water itself… If one animal gets too much, they get overpopulated and diseased. It’s just a big ecosystem.” Bridging Traditional Knowledge and Western Science For years, Elders have spoken about changes in the environment, but their observations were often dismissed without scientific proof. Now, WLMN is ensuring that traditional knowledge is backed by data. With the Nation’s Oil Sands Monitoring (OSM) program and sustainability department, that proof is now being gathered. “We get a chance to use Western science technology to reiterate what our Elders are saying so we can talk [in] their language. If our Elders say the moose are getting ticks earlier because of an earlier thaw, we can confirm that with our camera programs. We can link what they’re saying to Western science terminology.” This blending of Indigenous knowledge and scientific methods allows the Nation to advocate more effectively for environmental protections. “Now, when industry or government asks for proof, we have it. We’re not just saying it—we’re showing it.” A Future Built on Respect for the Land At its heart, environmental stewardship in Willow Lake Métis Nation is about respect—respect for the land, for the knowledge passed down through generations, and for the future. “Everything is interconnected,” Kyle says. “If we don’t take care of the land, the land won’t take care of us.”  By combining traditional Métis values with modern environmental science, WLMN is ensuring that their homeland remains healthy and abundant—not just for today, but for generations to come.

As environmental, social, and governance (ESG) frameworks continue to shape corporate and institutional decision-making, the inclusion of Indigenous knowledge is emerging as a powerful catalyst in advancing sustainability goals. The Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN) exemplifies how Indigenous perspectives and practices can enrich ESG frameworks, offering a model for others to follow. Who Are the Willow Lake Métis Nation? The Willow Lake Métis Nation traces its roots to a proud Métis heritage , steeped in the culture and traditions of the people of the fur trade era who settled around Willow Lake (now Gregoire Lake) in Northern Alberta. Today, the Nation is a vibrant community that blends their historical knowledge and connection to the land with modern tools to address pressing environmental and social challenges. Their work spans a range of areas, from promoting sustainable resource development to ensuring community well-being, and they have embraced ESG principles as a means of building a resilient future for their Nation. Integrating Indigenous Wisdom into ESG Practices The traditional knowledge held by WLMN is deeply aligned with ESG principles, emphasizing harmony with nature, equity, and ethical leadership. Their work provides a blueprint for integrating these values into contemporary frameworks. 1. Environmental Stewardship WLMN prioritizes the health of their lands and waters as central to their survival and identity. They recognize that sustainable development requires a balance between resource use and environmental protection, echoing ESG objectives around environmental sustainability. Case Study: Climate Risk Assessment In collaboration with external partners, WLMN conducted a Climate Risk Assessment to understand the potential impacts of climate change and extreme weather events on their Nation. This proactive step helps ensure that their community and businesses can adapt to future challenges while continuing to protect their traditional lands. ESG Alignment : Environmental : The assessment supports informed decision-making to safeguard biodiversity, water systems, and traditional practices. Governance : By actively engaging with climate science, WLMN demonstrates leadership in aligning traditional knowledge with modern environmental strategies. Innovative Restoration Projects WLMN is involved in habitat restoration projects that incorporate traditional land management practices. By using local and traditional knowledge, the Nation is revitalizing areas affected by industrial activities, ensuring the sustainability of the environment for future generations. 2. Social Equity and Community Well-being Social responsibility is a cornerstone of ESG, and WLMN has been a champion of fostering equity and cultural preservation. Their initiatives prioritize the well-being of their people while contributing to the broader community. Case Study: Capacity Building through Willow Lake Métis Group The Nation’s partner, Willow Lake Métis Group (WLMG) was established as an Indigenous-owned group of companies that provides resource and infrastructure solutions while staying true to Métis values. A percentage of profits earned by WLMG are reinvested in the Nation’s education and other social programs. The group also actively works to create employment and training opportunities for Métis individuals, empowering them with skills and financial independence. ESG Alignment : Social : WLMG initiatives build social equity by addressing employment gaps and fostering community-driven economic development. Governance : By prioritizing Métis leadership in decision-making, WLMG models an inclusive governance structure. Health and Cultural Programs WLMN also invests in programs that address health disparities and strengthen cultural heritage. These initiatives ensure that community members thrive physically and spiritually while preserving their identity. 3. Governance with Integrity Good governance is essential for building trust and ensuring that ESG initiatives are both ethical and effective. WLMN’s governance model is rooted in transparency, consensus-building, and respect for traditional values. Case Study: Ethical Partnerships in Industry WLMN has cultivated partnerships with resource companies to ensure that industrial development on their traditional lands respects Métis rights and values. These collaborations often include benefit-sharing agreements, environmental monitoring, and consultation processes. ESG Alignment : Governance : By negotiating agreements that prioritize transparency and accountability, WLMN ensures that all stakeholders act responsibly. Social : Partnerships promote mutual respect and collaboration, empowering the Nation to influence decisions affecting their lands. Advocacy and Leadership WLMN actively participates in regional and national advocacy efforts to uphold Métis rights and advance policies that reflect their community’s needs. Their leadership in these spaces inspires other Indigenous Nations to take a proactive role in shaping ESG conversations. Challenges and Opportunities While WLMN has made significant strides in integrating their knowledge and practices into ESG frameworks, challenges remain. These include overcoming systemic inequities, securing long-term funding for initiatives, and navigating the complexities of balancing traditional practices with modern industrial demands. However, the opportunities far outweigh the obstacles. By continuing to share their expertise and collaborate with partners, WLMN is setting a precedent for how Indigenous Nations can lead in the ESG space. Lessons from Willow Lake Métis Nation for ESG Leaders WLMN’s approach offers several key lessons for organizations seeking to integrate Indigenous wisdom into their ESG strategies: Collaborate Authentically : Build genuine partnerships with Indigenous communities, ensuring that they are actively involved in decision-making from the outset. Prioritize Long-Term Impact : Adopt a mindset that values intergenerational sustainability over short-term profits and reflects Indigenous principles. Respect Sovereignty : Recognize Indigenous Nations as equal stakeholders and respect their right to self-determination in all projects. Invest in Capacity Building : Support Indigenous communities through training, education, and infrastructure to ensure their full participation in ESG initiatives. The Path Forward The Willow Lake Métis Nation exemplifies how Indigenous knowledge and leadership can enhance ESG practices. By aligning their traditional values with contemporary frameworks, they are driving meaningful progress in environmental stewardship, social equity, and ethical governance. For organizations striving to achieve sustainability goals, partnering with Indigenous communities like WLMN offers a pathway to create lasting change. As the global movement for ESG evolves, the inclusion of Indigenous wisdom will be essential to ensuring that sustainability efforts honor the interconnectedness of people, planet, and prosperity. By learning from and collaborating with leaders like the Willow Lake Métis Nation, the world can take an important step toward a more equitable and sustainable future.

Biodiversity is a buzzword that’s gained widespread currency in recent times, but the concept of it has been recognized and celebrated by Indigenous peoples for many thousands of years. Biodiversity is the intricate web of life that sustains ecosystems, economies, and human well-being. It encompasses everything from the air we breathe to the food we eat, connecting every element of our existence with nature's diversity. This understanding has long guided Indigenous stewardship of the land. For many, the land is more than a resource—it is a relative, a teacher, and a provider. As some say —"my trapline is my church," which is a reminder that the land is not just a place of survival but of deep spiritual connection. Trees, rocks, and water are not inanimate objects; they hold spirit and life, shaping the world around us in ways both seen and unseen. Biodiversity encompasses the entire web of life—air, water, land, and all beings that depend on them. Sadly, biodiversity — and the importance of it — faces an unprecedented decline in the modern world, threatening not only the natural world but the very foundations of sustainable development. Efforts to reverse this trend are critical, and organizations like the Willow Lake Métis Nation are leading the way with initiatives that highlight the integral relationship between biodiversity and sustainable development. Biodiversity: The Key to a Sustainable Future Biodiversity is more than just a measure of species—it is the living relationship between air, water, land, and animals, each depending on the other to thrive. When water is clean and healthy, the animals that rely on it flourish, and in turn, the balance of the entire ecosystem is maintained. Sustainable development seeks to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own. This vision depends on healthy ecosystems that provide essential services such as clean water, fertile soils, climate regulation, and pollination. However, global biodiversity loss undermines these critical systems. Industrial expansion, deforestation, and climate change have driven a rapid decline in species and habitats. The ripple effects are far-reaching: reduced agricultural productivity, increased vulnerability to natural disasters, and disruptions in cultural and spiritual practices rooted in nature. Protecting biodiversity is not just an environmental issue—it is an economic, social, and cultural imperative that requires collective action. Willow Lake Métis Nation: Indigenous Leadership in Biodiversity Protection Indigenous knowledge has long recognized that trees, rocks, and waterways are not just physical elements of the land but living beings with spirit and purpose. Honoring this interconnectedness ensures that conservation is not just about preservation but about maintaining the harmony that has sustained life for generations. The Willow Lake Métis Nation offers a powerful example of Indigenous-led conservation. With deep cultural ties to the land, the Métis people have long been stewards of biodiversity, understanding that healthy ecosystems are vital for their way of life. The Willow Lake Métis Nation’s initiatives prioritize the protection of biodiversity through sustainable land management, traditional ecological knowledge, and community-driven projects. One key effort involves restoring and safeguarding wetlands, which serve as critical habitats for wildlife while also providing flood control and water purification services. Through the Oil Sands Monitoring Program , WLMN’s Sustainability Department is conducting comprehensive water quality assessments across Cheecham, Surmont, Sucker, and Kinosis Lakes. This initiative is essential for understanding and mitigating any potential environmental impacts from nearby industrial activities, ensuring these waterways remain a thriving habitat for generations to come. Collaboration between Indigenous communities and government-led environmental programs highlights the power of partnership in protecting our natural resources. By integrating Métis traditional knowledge with modern scientific monitoring, WLMN is not only safeguarding water quality but also strengthening cultural ties to the land. Biodiversity and the Path to Sustainable Development Goals ​The 16th United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP16) convened in Cali, Colombia, from October 21 to November 1, 2024, to address the escalating global biodiversity crisis. Despite extensive negotiations, the conference concluded without consensus on key financial mechanisms and a global monitoring framework for biodiversity conservation. However, significant progress was made with the establishment of a subsidiary body to involve Indigenous peoples in conservation decisions, acknowledging their vital role in protecting biodiversity. Additionally, the conference introduced the "Cali Fund," aimed at equitably sharing benefits from the commercial use of genetic resources. These developments underscore the critical importance of collaborative efforts in safeguarding our planet's biodiversity. Another notable framework for enhancing biodiversity is Canada's 2030 Nature Strategy. Canada’s 2030 Nature Strategy: Halting and Reversing Biodiversity Loss in Canada contains multiple pillars recognize role of Indigenous Peoples: “Recognizing, upholding, and implementing the rights of Indigenous Peoples and advancing reconciliation, as Indigenous Peoples are the original caretakers of the lands, waters, and ice. Ensuring a whole-of-government, whole-of-society approach to create policy coherence and draw on the strengths of every segment of society to build and deliver the solutions we need. Supporting a resilient economy and improving efficiency and certainty, as our prosperity is inherently linked to a healthy environment. Empowering on-the-ground action by reflecting regional differences, supporting communities, and adopting flexible community-based approaches. Using the best available science and knowledge, incorporating new insights, sharing information, and giving equal weight to western science and Indigenous Knowledge. Applying integrated, holistic approaches to ensure our actions are inclusive and transparent.” Initiatives led by organizations like Willow Lake Métis Nation exemplify how collaborative efforts can drive progress toward these goals. By integrating biodiversity into decision-making, restoring ecosystems, and promoting community engagement, they demonstrate that sustainable development is not only possible but essential for our shared future. A Call to Action For Indigenous peoples, biodiversity is not just a scientific concept—it is a way of life. The land, water, air, and animals are all connected, each playing a role in the delicate balance that sustains us. When one part of this system is disrupted, the effects are felt across all others. As biodiversity continues to face mounting threats, the need for action is more urgent than ever. Governments, businesses, Indigenous communities, and individuals must work together to protect and restore the natural systems that sustain life. The work of Willow Lake Métis Nation serves as a reminder that meaningful change is achievable through partnership and innovation. By prioritizing biodiversity, we can secure a sustainable, equitable, and resilient future for all. Let us rise to the challenge, honouring the diversity of life that enriches our world and ensures our collective well-being. Together, we can make a difference.