Features
Spotlight on excellence: Benjamin Patton

In our 11th edition of the Top 20 Under 40 award, Canadian Forest Industries is shining a spotlight on the next-gen leaders who are making waves in our industry. These young champions are not just rising stars – they’re innovators, change-makers, mentors, and community builders. Over the next 20 weeks, we’ll introduce you to each of the 2023 winners.

Today, let’s get to know Benjamin Patton, founder and president of TreeCycle Canada in North Vancouver, B.C.

The 32-year-old has been working most of his adult life in the forest industry as a tree planter, forest firefighter, arborist, dangerous tree assessor, flood rescuer, general forestry worker, and now developing and implementing solutions for forestry wood waste and helping to grow the wood waste circular economy across Canada.

“His experience on the frontlines has shaped his commitment to finding innovative solutions for forestry waste management. Through his visionary approach, Ben has created an umbrella of circular economy and bioeconomy endeavors for forestry waste solutions, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and ability to translate ideas into impactful ventures. He also has a committed motivation to bringing others along with his success; ergo, our business partnerships,” explains co-founder Connor McCron.

Ben is a volunteer and director for the North Shore Streamkeepers. He also oversees the deconstruction wood waste program for the District of North Vancouver. He is actively pursuing regulatory reform for the forestry act and municipal bylaws related to urban and community forest wood waste utilization. Recently, he has been selected as a Sustainable Forestry Initiative youth delegate for fostering a culture of environmental stewardship in the industry.

Next week we will showcase the achievements of winner Laurel Peterson.