Our Role and History
SUPPORTING PROFESSIONAL BIOLOGISTS FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
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Role of the APB
The Association of Professional Biology (APB) represents professional biologists in British Columbia. Our members are in good standing with accredited regulatory natural resource organizations such as the College of Applied Biologists (CAB) in B.C. and the Alberta Society of Professional Biologists (ASPB). Members are governed by provincial legislation (e.g., the College of Applied Biology Act and its Rules).
As the association of professional biologists of British Columbia, the APB works to continually evolve the practice of biology through providing professional development opportunities and guidance for biologists and other resource professionals in BC and the rest of Canada. We also advocate for advancements in the application, practice and understanding of biological sciences.
The APB works in concert with many other natural resource professional associations in BC to advance professional reliance responsibilities and ensure competency through training, guidance and APB sponsored events.
Purpose
The purposes of the Association are to:
Encourage the development and application of sound biological principles in the management and conservation of resources;
Assist Biology Professionals in the development and maintenance of high professional standards in management, research and education related to biological resources;
Inform and advise industry, governments and the public of the potential impacts on biological resources of land use and resource development proposals;
Promote liaison with other professional associations for mutual professional development; and
Engage in such other activities as are complementary to the purposes of the Association.
CAB’s Role
College’s Role in Setting Standards
The College sets professional standards and ensures accountability through audits and reviews to protect the public.
Credentialing and Accountability
The College oversees credentialing and holds professionals accountable through audits and investigations when necessary.
Clear Separation from Advocacy
Since 2003, the College has focused solely on regulatory duties, not advocacy.
Ensuring Public Interest
The College’s mandate is to protect the public by ensuring biologists meet high standards without engaging in advocacy.
History
The Association of Professional Biologists (APB) was founded in January 1980 by a group of dedicated biologists who aimed to establish high standards for the profession and ensure its respect through a strong disciplinary structure. Their goal was to create a profession where each member would uphold its integrity.
In 2003, the College of Applied Biology Act came into effect, further defining the profession. This act enhanced the protection of the Registered Professional Biologist title and paved the way for the inclusion of Registered Biology Technologists and Applied Biology Technicians. It also established the College of Applied Biologists to oversee public interest matters, while the APB continued as a voluntary organization focused on the needs of its members.
Name Change and Bylaw Update
In October 2010, members voted to rename the Association to the Association of Professional Biology, updating its certificate of incorporation and bylaws. For more history, download the ‘Formative History of APB‘ document.
