If you’re passionate about the environment and want to advance your career, the Environmental Professional (EP®) Designation of ECO Canada is a powerful way to showcase your expertise, credibility, and commitment to sustainability.
Whether you’re just starting out in the environmental field, or you’ve already earned your EP® designation, this credential opens doors and keeps you at the forefront of the industry at any stage in your career.
The designation offers a variety of levels, depending on your experience and education:
- Environmental Professionals (EP®)
- Environmental Professional in Training (EPt)
- Environmental Auditors EP® (EMSLA), EP® (CEA)
- Environmental Professional In-Training Student (EPt Student)
- EP Employer (EPE)
Here’s why the EP® designation is worth pursuing and why it’s equally important to renew it if you’re already an EP®:
1. Gain Recognized Credibility in the Environmental Field across Canada and beyond
“The EP® Designation is not merely a title, or a few letters added to the end of one’s name, it represents a commitment to excellence in environmental stewardship. It’s an indication and a passion for the wellbeing of our environment.” – Kevin Nilsen, President & CEO of ECO Canada
The EP® designation, granted by ECO Canada, is a nationally recognized mark of excellence. It demonstrates that you possess the knowledge, skills, and ethical standards to address the complex environmental challenges of today.
For those looking to elevate their careers, the EP® designation sets you apart, whether you’re aiming for a promotion, shifting to a new role, or expanding your consulting opportunities.
If you already hold the EP® title, renewing it keeps you recognized as an industry leader committed to ongoing professional development.
2. Accelerate Career Advancement
The demand for skilled environmental professionals is growing. As more organizations prioritize sustainability, the EP® credential positions you for advancement in a competitive job market.
Holding the EP® designation shows employers that you are a leader in your field and ready to tackle any environmental challenge. Maintaining your designation ensures you remain on the cutting edge, keeping your qualifications fresh and relevant as your career progresses.
3. Ongoing Professional Development
Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned pro, becoming an EP® guarantees that you’re committed to lifelong learning. The process of earning the EP® designation includes meeting educational and experience requirements, but it doesn’t stop there.
As an EP® you will engage in continuous professional development activities to keep your skills sharp and your knowledge current.
Plus, EP®s receive 25% off our renowned training courses to maximize your professional development and environmental training.
4. Access a Robust Professional Network
One of the most valuable benefits of becoming an EP® is the connection to a vast network of over 3000 Environmental Professionals across Canada. The EP® community is an active and strong network of leaders across a variety of industries.
ECO Canada collaborates with EP® Champions to host EP® Meetups, impactful and fun networking events throughout Canada. These free events are a great chance for professionals to collaborate, share insights, and tap into industry resources by creating meaningful professional relationships.
Join your local EP® chapter to get to know Environmental Professionals in your area. ECO Canada currently has launched over 12 chapters across Canada:
- Toronto East
- Toronto West
- Toronto Central
- Winnipeg
- Edmonton
- Ottawa/Gatineau
- Kitchener/Waterloo
- Mississauga/Milton
- St. John’s
- Victoria
- Barrie
- Fredericton
Plus, participate in our Mentorship Program with fellow EP®’s to build coaching skills and foster workforce growth.
5. Make a Real Difference in Sustainability
The ultimate goal of an EP® is to drive positive environmental change. As an EP®, you are equipped to contribute meaningfully to sustainability efforts, helping organizations meet environmental regulations, reduce their carbon footprint, and develop sustainable practices.
Whether you’re just starting your journey or are already established in your career, being part of the EP® network allows you to continue shaping a more sustainable future. If you’re an existing EP®, renewing your designation further strengthens your role in addressing the world’s environmental challenges.
More perks of being an EP®:
- Gain national recognition of your area(s) of specialization
- Access an exclusive network of leading industry professionals
- Free passes to EP® Meet Up networking mixers
- 25% off live and on-demand training and events
- Receive free AD&D insurance coverage for up to $100,000
- Share your knowledge as a webinar or conference speaker or a guest blogger
- Receive discounts from environmentally conscious retailers, travel, and insurance providers
- Potential to win an ECO Impact Award for your environmental work
- Opportunity to join the EP® Taskforce to support the movement for Right to Practice, and contribute to ECO Canada ‘s Labour Market Information reports.
How to Become an EP® — And How to Renew Your EP® Designation
Becoming an EP® requires meeting specific educational and professional experience requirements, along with a commitment to ethical practice and ongoing development. Once you’ve earned the EP designation, you’ll be recognized for your expertise and dedication to environmental stewardship.
Already an EP® Great! Now is the time to renew your designation. The renewal process involves demonstrating continued professional practice, completing additional professional development activities, and adhering to the EP® Code of Ethics. The renewal season starts April 1st and ends May 31st.
Check out these exclusive savings:
You can save 15% (or even 20%) on your 2026/27 renewal fee by referring colleagues, peers, or members of your network. When your referral becomes fully certified (EPt/EP®/SBEPt/SBEP or Auditor), you will receive a 15% discount on your next renewal.
If you refer two or more people who become fully certified, you will get a 20% discount on your renewal for 2026/27! Please note that EP Employees of EP Employers are disqualified from this offer, as they already receive a 20% discount, but we still appreciate your referrals.
Take the next step: If you’re not yet an EP®, start the application process today. If you’re already an EP®, make sure to renew your membership and continue your journey toward shaping a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future. Your commitment to professional excellence and environmental leadership has never been more important.
