Prévost, May 20, 2025 – In five years, the 1% for the Planet Outdoor Fund, an entirely Quebec-based initiative, has generated tangible benefits for nature protection and climate action in the province. Today the businesses committed to the fund are unveiling the results of their collective efforts, and inviting the tourism industry at large to use the leverage of the 1% to take action.
In 2020, Aventure Écotourisme Québec (AEQ) signed a landmark agreement with 1% for the Planet, becoming the trailblazer for the concept in Quebec with the creation of the 1% for the Planet Outdoor Fund.
Thanks to the commitment of businesses that contribute 1% of their yearly turnover on a voluntary basis, this fund supports non-profit organizations working to protect terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, wildlife species and climate action here in Quebec. A portion of the funds also goes to supporting AEQ member adventure tourism and ecotourism businesses in embracing sustainable and responsible practices.
“The 1% for the Planet Outdoor Fund is a powerful example of what happens when businesses come together to support local environmental action. In just five years, this partnership has delivered measurable impact, from protecting critical habitats to empowering the next generation of climate leaders. As our only community-based fund of its kind, this partnership reflects the power of collaboration and place-based giving. We hope this effective, innovative approach inspires others across the tourism sector and beyond.”
— Kate Williams, CEO of 1% for the Planet
Five years and concrete impacts for nature in Quebec
Since its inception in 2020, the Fund has raised $785,000 and supported more than 20 nature protection and climate action projects led by Quebec organizations. More specifically, the donations have helped make several advances possible:
Check out the report on the impacts the Fund has had since its creation.
Driving potentially exponential impacts
These remarkable benefits demonstrate how the adventure tourism and ecotourism sector is positioning itself as an agent of change. “Protecting natural environments is a driver for collective well-being around which we want to rally all partners from across the Quebec tourism industry. The 1% concept is a recognized tool that can be applied in all sectors: If everyone pitches in, the impacts will be exponential.”
— Stéphane Jeannerot, Director of Development at AEQ
Over the last few weeks, the 1% for the Planet Outdoor Fund has surpassed one million dollars in nature-protection investments in Quebec. Aventure Écotourisme Québec and the businesses that have committed to the Fund hope that these achievements will inspire other organizations to take action.
Businesses wishing to join the movement are invited to contact AEQ.
About the Fund
The 1% for the Planet Outdoor Fund is coordinated by Aventure Écotourisme Québec as part of a unique partnership the association has entered into with the international 1% for the Planet organization. AEQ member businesses voluntarily commit to contributing 1% of their turnover to the Fund. The proceeds are overseen by a management committee, made up of representatives of the business donors and civil society, and are donated to Quebec non-profit organizations. The committee’s decisions are guided by a sustainability expert. Find out more about the Fund.
