A SPONSORED FEATURE BY MEDIAPLANET MARCH 2018 | INDUSTRYANDBUSINESS.CA

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Circular Economy Holds the Key to the Future

s anyone who has ever driven To establish a successful carbon-neutral cir- Vaughan would like to see all these separate across the country will tell you, if cular economy within 10 years, the program out- initiatives brought together under a comprehen- you drive along the Trans-Canada lines several projects, including investment in sive federal plan — Canada’s own roadmap to- Highway long enough you’ll run the use of biogas for transportation, a research ward a circular economy. “Circular economy of- out of pavement. project on new cellulose-based materials, and fers a systemic approach, pulling together differ- AAs any environmentalist will tell you, if we a project to improve the efficiency of mobile ent priorities — from low-carbon pathways and continue using a linear economy — one in which phone and tablet recycling, among others. freshwater stewardship to innovation, enhanced products are made, used, and discarded — we will The goal is to ensure that in the future, prof- productivity, competitiveness, and green jobs — run out of resources. We’re harvesting too many it comes from providing services and intelli- in a more unified way,” he says. resources too quickly. gence-based digital solutions, as opposed to In addition to being good for the environ- For that reason, environmentalists are en- merely producing products for consumption. ment, taking this step would be good for busi- couraging people worldwide to adopt a circu- Since the action plan was launched, Sitra has ness. Vaughan notes that a “green economy” has lar economy, where goods at the end of their life made a list of one hundred inspiring circular potential to lead economic growth, because it cycle are recreated or turned into entirely new economy examples. It includes one company, would create new markets such as biofuels and products. This economy prevents us from con- Valtavalo, that offers sustainable lighting servi- renewable energy. A green economy could also Mari Pantsar suming the planet’s resources faster than they ces, and a start-up that provides reusable pack- be good for trade. China, a rising economic super- Director, can be replenished. aging for digital retailers. “The program has power, is placing greater emphasis on low-car- Carbon Neutral and Circular been very successful because various stakehold- bon and circular economy approaches. Economy, SITRA Finland, a leader in sustainability ers, especially municipalities and companies, The biggest incentive of all, of course, is to en- Scott Vaughan is an advocate for the transition to are thinking about the circular economy when sure the planet is habitable for future genera- a circular economy. He’s the President and CEO working on business strategies and models,” tions. The linear economy that has been in place of the International Institute for Sustainable De- says Mari Pantsar, Director of Sitra’s carbon-neu- for decades is destined to fail because it will velopment (IISD), which was established in Can- tral and circular economy work stream. reach a point at which there are no more resour- ada in 1990 and now has offices in Switzerland She and other members of the company re- ces available. and the U.S. as well. IISD conducts research and cently spent time travelling around Canada to “A transition towards the circular economy engages citizens, businesses, and policy-mak- meet with various individuals, government of- in inevitable as we are already exceeding the ers in the shared goal of developing sustainably. ficials, and organizations interested in sustain- planetary boundaries and overusing natural re- Vaughan points to Finland as a role model that ability. sources,” says Pantsar. “The circular economy is other countries can look to. Vaughan notes the many similarities between much more than waste management or recyc- “Finland is positioning itself as a global lead- Finland and Canada, including the fact that both ling. It is a new economic paradigm.” er in circular economy innovation,” he says. “It’s are northern countries with a vast amount of the first country ever to set out a circular econ- natural resources. He would like Canada to fol- omy roadmap that advances low-carbon innova- low that country’s environmental lead. Can- Randi Druzin tion and inclusive jobs.” adians are already moving in the right direction. Scott Vaughan That roadmap was created a few years ago by a Aveda, Levi Strauss, and other companies are SPONSORED BY President & CEO, Finnish think tank that focuses on the research cutting their emissions and water consumption International Institute for Sustainable and implementation of sustainability initiatives. while making use of materials that in the past Development In 2016 the organization, Sitra, and the Finnish would have been sent to the landfill. In Ontario, government co-launched a national action pro- the city of Waterloo has been testing a program gram to put the ideas into practice. The plan fo- that turns dog waste into energy, heat, and fertil- cuses on food sustainability, forestry, transporta- izers — and a number of municipalities are fol- tion and construction, and machinery. lowing suit. 2 INDUSTRYANDBUSINESS.CA A SPONSORED FEATURE BY MEDIAPLANET Propane Can Be the Bridge to a Green Q&A with Canadian Future

The first step to a green Canada is a greener Catherine Canada. Propane is a step we can take today. Clean energy, like most things, is not a black and white issue. While renewable energy continues to become more viable, it re- mains expensive, and the infrastructure to support it is incom- Hon. Catherine McKenna plete. In the meantime, we have ready-to-go cleaner options Minister of Environment available to us today, foremost among them propane. McKenna & Climate Change More than just for barbecues Propane is a hydrocarbon, but it is far cleaner than coal, oil, or Federal Environment Minister Catherine McKenna provides even natural gas. “Propane is a game-changer for Canada,” says Nathalie St-Pierre, President and CEO of the Canadian Propane insight into Canada’s plans for climate action leadership. Association. “It has a significant role to play in our country’s clean energy mix because it is an affordable, low-emission, non- toxic energy source that provides environmental benefits for Mediaplanet What is the Canadian government’s tools and research, and strengthen partnerships by launch- numerous sectors, including residential, commercial, agricul- plan for conservation in 2018? ing co-management practices with Indigenous communities, ture, mining, petrochemical, and transportation.” including building local emergency response capacity. Propane-powered vehicles are receiving new attention as Catherine McKenna In Budget 2018, Canada made his- more mature and affordable alternatives to electric vehicles in toric investments totalling $1.3 billion to protect its nature, the push to green our roads. And, as a source of heat, light, and parks, and wild spaces. Since the last election, the Govern- MP What areas do we need to work on most in our electricity, propane’s portability and ability to function with- ment has already increased the protection of coastal waters nation to promote a climate friendly future? out the exponential infrastructure costs of other alternative from one to almost eight per cent, protecting an area of fuels makes it a natural fit for Canada’s remote and Indigenous the ocean larger than the state of California. Importantly, CM Canadians know that pollution isn’t free. We’re seeing communities, many of which primarily operate on diesel today. many of the areas the Government has protected have been some of those costs already, in Canada and around the world “These communities experience local air and noise pollution, in collaboration with Indigenous communities, including — with droughts, wildfires, floods, a national Arctic, and more blackouts, supply issues, and fuel spills,” says St-Pierre. “Propane Tallurutiup Imanga, Inuktitut for Lancaster Sound. This is extreme weather. can support this necessary change on a large scale, and in a prac- Canada’s largest marine protected area and the Government This has a direct impact on our health, our communities, tical and affordable manner — to a degree that will allow these is protecting it with Inuit peoples. It is also protecting our and our economy. Canadians see these impacts and they want communities to grow and foster economic development.” lands. For example, last summer, the Government of Canada to see practical action in response. worked with BC Environment Minister George Heyman and But transitions are never easy. We’re all in this together, An economic powerhouse regional Indigenous leaders, including Chief Clarence Louie and we need to collaborate. That’s why the Government Economically, propane is a win for Canada both at home and of the Osoyoos Band to move forward to create a national worked for a year to reach agreement on a Canada-wide plan abroad. Domestically, the propane industry employs rough- park in the south Okanagan. Protecting this natural legacy for clean growth and climate action, in partnership with the ly 23,000 people and generates over $16 billion annually for the is critical and doing it is important for local communities. provinces and territories, and Indigenous peoples. The plan Canadian economy, and the export potential is substantial as Parks Canada places are an important part of local econ- takes into account what is unique about Canada, and that dif- well. Canada has significant amounts of propane, and we use on- omies. They help generate billions of dollars annually and ferent regions will face different adjustments. ly about half of what we produce, providing a natural opportun- support roughly 40,000 full-time equivalent jobs from coast Perhaps more than anything, this requires a commitment ity for exports to high carbon-emitting nations like China. to coast to coast. They also contribute some $3.3 billion each to work together. The Government is working hard to on a In all, propane is perfectly positioned as a cleaner energy year to Canada’s GDP. The Government is also investing in the thoughtful approach that will make real progress at reducing source that is mature, ready to go, and abundant. Any realistic protection of Canada’s oceans with the $1.5 billion Oceans emissions. path towards a renewable Canada must focus on the steps we Protection Plan. This plan will deliver a world-leading marine can take today as much as on the destination we hope to reach. safety system for the country’s unique context. It will restore Propane is the bridge to a green future. Read the full interview online at industryandbusiness.ca and protect the marine ecosystems and habitats using new D.F. McCourt

Climate, Metals, and Future Demand: The Interconnected World

In a complex world, many people in a way that benefits all. struggle to appreciate where In June 2018, these challenges things come from — including will be addressed and debated at a food, energy, and water, and the major international conference in materials that make everything , BC called Resources for from planes to cars and mobile de- Future Generations (rfg2018.org). vices. Lack of understanding also Participants will examine the topics explains why we accept the num- of energy, minerals, and water from erous stories claiming imminent technical and societal perspectives. shortages of critical natural re- The source of these natural resour- sources while also believing that ces in the Earth and ways to im- amazing new technologies based prove discovery and responsible ex- on complex resource-dependent traction will be addressed. The con- materials will change the world. ference will also focus on the roles of Both of these cannot be true — at industry, governments, Indigenous least at face value. peoples, and communities — dis- Climate change and the human cussing and evaluating the issues influence on it are well documented in scien- ed temperature increases by 2050. The metal de- 30 to 40 years will require more mines with more and opportunities for the future. tific and popular literature, but understanding mand is significant for a 4oC increase and dra- energy and water for metal production, and this Most importantly, young people will be en- the details of Earth’s climate system and how matic if limited to 2oC. This new demand in- may lead to more issues related to permitting, com- couraged to participate in the conference and it will change over time is challenging. Under- cludes major commodities — copper, aluminum, munity support, and the environment. Simply put, the resource debate. They will be our future con- standably, we worry about the potential impact nickel, and zinc — and is even more significant if we are going to produce more metals in order to sumers, problem solvers, and protectors of the on wildlife, agriculture, and humans, and we de- for the rare metals used in clean energy technol- make the world a better place for humans, we must environment, hence the title of the conference. bate the solutions. But how many people realize ogies, such as lithium and cobalt. There are many do it more efficiently and responsibly or else we will that mitigating the impacts of climate change assumptions in these scenarios, not the least be- be no further ahead. The same arguments hold for requires resources? ing the probability of new technologies that may energy in general and water in many places. Ultim- John FH Thompson, Chair RFG2018 In 2017, the World Bank attempted to estimate be less metal intense, but even if the results are ately, a basic standard of living for an increasing the amount of metal needed to produce suffi- significantly wrong, we can still anticipate major global population, combined with technological cient renewable energy, battery storage, and increases in the demand for metals. advances that lead to a more sustainable world will electric cars to minimize climate change-relat- Increasing the supply of metals in the next require abundant resources that must be delivered

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Publisher: Daniel Singh Business Developer:Samantha Blandford Country Manager: Jacob Weingarten Content Production Manager: Ellen Asiedu Lead Designer: Mike Shea Designer: Lena Yang Digital Content Manager: Camille Co Contributors: Dan Kraus, D.F. McCourt, Bernadette Conant, Stewart Elgie, Rob Csernyik, Ken Donohue, Chantal Guimont, Lisa Guglietti, Don Forgeron, Randi Druzin, Kevin Edgson, John FH Thompson Cover Photo: Samuel Scrimshaw Photo credits: All images are from Getty Images unless otherwise accredited. Send all inquiries to [email protected] This section was created by Mediaplanet and did not involve National Post or its Editorial Departments.

Propane. A Game Changer for Canada.

Recognized for its low emissions and environmental Propane can: impact by the Alternative Fuels Act, propane is • Fuel vehicles and fleets one of the cleanest and most versatile fuels in • Heat and power rural and remote existence. Propane’s greenhouse gas emissions communities are significantly lower than gasoline, diesel, coal • Chemical free control of pests and weeds and heating oil, and comparable to natural gas. • Dry crops and heat barns

Low-Emission. Versatile. Reliable. www.propane.ca A SPONSORED FEATURE BY MEDIAPLANET MEDIAPLANET 3

NAIT’s applied research develops practical solutions Dr. Heather Kaminsky, Research Lead - Mining, for industry’s challenges. NAIT Centre for Oil Sands Sustainability NAIT Leading the Way for Oil Sands Wastewater Research

The Alberta oil sands need tre for Oil Sands Sustainability and says water is water treatment technologies and processes. solutions to deal with tailings at the heart of her team’s research. The Ledcor He says many industries share environment- and wastewater. That’s why Applied Research Chair in Oil Sands Sustainabil- al concerns around sustainable water use. NAIT’s dedicated research ity says that there are three major environment- “Several of our current research projects are teams explore new ways of al issues her centre looks at: water, tailings, and focused on helping different industry clients, recycling wastewater. NAIT’s the need to reduce greenhouse gases. And, she large and small, who want to be sure they are applied research helps the oil adds, they’re all interconnected. good stewards of our natural resources,” Laffin and gas industry promote good “Water is a key resource that’s used for re- says. environmental stewardship covering the oil from the sands,” she says. This Among his team’s projects is a nanotechnol- while solving tangible results in tailings and wastewater that needs to ogy-based water treatment process that focus- problems. be recycled. “We need to reduce the raw water es on oxidizing the organic compounds within usage and increase the amount of water reuse wastewater produced by industry. Another is a In Alberta, energy drives the economy, and the by employing new technologies.” She adds that laser-based water quality instrument meant to Andrea Sedgwick Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) by doing so, greenhouse gas emissions can be re- speed up the process of treating wastewater. “It Ledcor Applied Research Chair, is behind some of the most innovative research duced. NAIT’s oil sands research achieves these lets you quickly characterize the size of particles NAIT Centre for Oil Sands in the sector. The -based polytechnic goals by enhancing recovery processes, iden- in the tailings from oil sands processes, lead- Sustainability stands out because of their focus on collabora- tifying new technologies to manage and treat ing to efficiencies when further treating the -re tion and partnership to develop relevant solu- wastewater, and optimizing treatment process- sulting waste water.” tions to the challenges faced by industry. es. Developing this type of innovative technol- One of NAIT’s primary research areas is clean The Centre for Oil Sands Sustainability was al- ogy, he adds, should help the oil sands producers innovation for Alberta’s oil sands, an industry so recently awarded funding to design and con- be more efficient in their operations and use which requires large amounts of water for pro- struct a high-temperature, high-pressure test- fewer chemicals when doing these treatments. duction. Instead of using fresh water, NAIT re- ing unit for oil sands water treatment technol- “That way they’ll leave less of a footprint on the searchers, in partnership with industry, are ex- ogies. “Our industry partners have said they environment.” ploring new technologies to improve the reuse haven’t been able to find anything like it in the For more information on NAIT’s clean innov- of the valuable resource. world,” Sedgwick says. “It’s going to be able to ation research projects, visit nait.ca/appliedre- Many in the oil sands industry know NAIT for take industrial wastewaters and test differ- search. the high-quality graduates who come to work ent technologies in real-world conditions. This with them, but increasingly the polytechnic has helps de-risk and perfect the technologies be- Rob Csernyik become known for its applied research. NAIT’s fore moving to the next level of validation.” Peter Laffin mandate is to support industry in developing SPONSORED BY Director of Business clean innovation products and processes that Innovative wastewater treatments Development, improve environmental performance. Peter Laffin, Director of Business Development NAIT Centre for Sensors and for NAIT’s Centre for Sensors and System Inte- System Integration Oil and water gration, leads a research group that also explores Andrea Sedgwick leads research at NAIT’s Cen- innovative ways to measure and monitor waste-

The Canadian Egg Industry: A Sustainability Story from Farm to Table

Egg farmers bring fresh, local, high-quality food to Canadian tables every day, but the way they make egg production more sustainable is a story less well- known. Through a holistic approach that includes acting responsibly towards animals, the land, and the environment, Canada’s egg industry is feeding more people than ever and building a bright future.

depending on the weather. For over a decade tion efficiencies is part of how families run their wind power has helped the Jennings family save farms. on their farm’s electric bill and reduce their car- Next up at the Jennings farm are barn bon footprint. It also means their customers improvements and renewable energy upgrades. have the satisfaction of knowing they’ve pur- The windmills have paid for themselves,” he chased a green product. says. However, they are nearing the end of their Roger Pelissero, Chairman of Egg Farmers of lifecycle. They’re also looking to replace a barn. Canada, says many people would be surprised “We’re thinking about putting solar panels on at the number of initiatives the industry takes the roof,” he says. Blake Jennings is the fifth generation of his and driving the use of fewer resources to produce to green their operations — from alternative In the not-too-distant future, Blake will carry family to be an egg farmer. But it’s not just a job eggs. energy, to housing, to ventilation. “At the core is on the family tradition as the fifth generation of to him — it’s a lifestyle. “More than anything,” adds Tim Lambert, the well-being of the hen,” he says. Jennings farmers to head the farm’s operations. “I can’t imagine doing anything else,” says the “Sustainability is part of the work we do to fos- Discussions about improving operations The stability of the industry means that there’s co-owner of Bayview Family Farm in Masstown, ter trust in the eggs we produce, to give back to aren’t new. Pelissero bought his West Lincoln, a bright future for him. “I’m excited that I and Nova Scotia. Though he helped around the farm our communities, and to continuously improve Ontario family farm in 1978 and has always been other young farmers have the opportunity to as a child, Jennings, now in his early twenties, our products and processes.” Doing so helps give looking for ways to innovate. “My father and I al- make a living doing what we love.” works alongside his father Glen to run the family the next generation a strong foundation to build ways sat down to talk about the latest and great- operation, which has over 15,000 laying hens. from. est farm innovations,” he remembers. One way The Jennings’ farm is part of an industry that they focused on greening operations was with Rob Csernyik is already one of the more sustainable types of The future is green lighting — first shifting from incandescent to animal agriculture. “A few years ago we did a Bayview, an award-winning farm that sits on fluorescent, then transitioning to lower-energy SPONSORED BY life cycle analysis of our sector,” says Egg Farm- the Bay of Fundy, is proudly referred to by the LED. Pelissero continues to ponder what’s next ers of Canada CEO Tim Lambert. “Over the past Jennings family as a green farm. “We were one on the horizon. “I just sat down with my son two 50 years we’ve been producing 50 percent more of the first farms in Nova Scotia to have wind weeks ago and started coming up with a list of eggs while using 50 percent fewer resources.” He power,” says Jennings. Running at full tilt, the ideas for the farm.” adds that the industry and individual farms con- wind turbines that tower over the farm can gen- As he says, for Canadian egg farmers, innova- tinue to research and invest in new technology, erate 100 percent of what is needed to power tion and sustainability are a way of life. Careful- making farms more economically sustainable their egg production. The rate varies, however, ly managing resources, and finding new produc- 4 INDUSTRYANDBUSINESS.CA A SPONSORED FEATURE BY MEDIAPLANET Environmental Sustainability Is Good Business Sense

We recognize“ the need for sustainable, reliable, and effective materials. ” Portland Lime Cement (PLC) Application by CRH Canada.

Environmental sustainability can seem like a overall strength and durability, resulting in de- mand for aggregates while lessening the burden public or the private sector — will have confi- buzzword, but for CRH Canada — one of Canada’s creased life cycle costs. The slag cement also has on the natural environment.” dence in knowing that they are buying respon- leading building materials manufacturers and an overall lower carbon footprint and is a sus- Whenever possible, Dufferin is committed to sibly sourced building materials. Communities construction companies — it’s been part of their tainable choice for many large-scale projects, as using recycled materials. Recycling also extends can be confident that we have met the highest DNA for the past 60 years. it helps builders in obtaining LEED certification. the reserves of natural materials, which means standards pertaining to social and environment- “This is an important mindset that is firmly less land is disturbed for mining. The company al impact.” embedded throughout our company,” says John Paving the way for environmental supplies approximately 200,000 tonnes of re- CRH Canada remains committed to being a Pontarollo, Senior Vice President, CRH Canada. sustainability cycled material annually to the Greater Toron- leader in the communities in which it operates, “We began a climate change initiative at our Mis- Aggregates are among the most widely used to-Hamilton area market — roughly one-and-a- supporting the transition to a low-carbon econ- sissauga cement plant to help focus our efforts building materials in the world and are found in half times the weight of the CN Tower. Recycled omy, and reducing its environmental footprint on seeking opportunities to improve efficiencies, roads, dams, and buildings of all types. They are material is being used on projects across Ontario, while continuing to provide innovative solu- and conserve non-renewable natural resources important ingredients in manufactured prod- including on the province’s busiest highways. tions for climate-resilient infrastructure. by utilizing alternative material sourcing.” ucts such as glass, coated paper, paint, and phar- This holistic approach involves every depart- maceuticals, and manufacturing components Sustainable operations validated Ken Donohue ment, team, and function at the plant to collect- such as steel, aluminum, and plastic. The company’s Acton Quarry was the first aggre- ively develop solutions, uncover and leverage With growing demand for infrastructure in gate site to be certified by the Cornerstone Stan- SPONSORED BY opportunities, and engage different types of ex- Ontario and across Canada, the need for aggre- dards Council, which has developed a world- pertise. CRH Canada also collaborates with gov- gate material is increasing. “We recognize the class certification program for the responsible ernment, industry, and partner associations to need for sustainable, reliable, and effective ma- siting and operation of all pits and quarries in identify viable, sustainable solutions to reduce terials to meet these infrastructure growth pri- Ontario. greenhouse gas emissions. orities,” says Dan O’Hara, General Manager of “We are extremely proud to have been official- To reduce its environmental impact, CRH Can- Dufferin Aggregates, a division of CRH Canada. ly recognized for our leadership and commit- ada uses slag cement, which is created with re- “It’s important to continue identifying and pro- ment in this area, and we hope this achievement covered industrial by-product in place of virgin viding responsible alternatives to raw material will be a catalyst for the industry,” says O’Hara. materials. This creates concrete with a higher extraction so that we can meet the growing de- “Now any purchaser of aggregates — be it the Fighting Climate Change One Car at a Time

The Canadian government has set a clear ob- Ontario, and Québec are growing and new corri- essential to accelerate the rate of adoption of EVs, jective to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emis- dors have been inaugurated in Alberta and New to complement the work of the leading Canadian sions by 30 percent by 2030 yet transportation ac- Brunswick, and will soon be introduced in Nova provinces, and to establish a national approach. counts for nearly 25 percent of all emissions in Scotia. Hydro-Québec’s Electric Circuit unveiled We need more communication, more charging Canada. Fortunately, the electrification of trans- a new public, universal, fast-charge superstation stations, and continued incentives. There is no turning portation provides readily available solutions concept that will test and include new charging Canada is committed to reducing its GHG “ that support Canadians in doing their part to technologies as soon as they come out. emissions, and to developing a Canada-wide back. We can fight climate change. With close to 70 percent of Three provincial governments offer incen- strategy to increase the number of EVs on its clean renewable electricity generation, electric tives for the purchase of an EV, or for charging roads. Electric Mobility Canada is convinced that definitively confirm vehicles (EVs) provide a sensible change that can stations at home, and/or at workplaces. They such a Canadian strategy will bring clarity, syn- a clear shift toward make a significant impact. have demonstrated that incentives are still a ne- ergy, and focus to all. Since time is of the essence, Around the world, leading governments have cessity to bring down the cost of ownership of an we urge the federal government to implement electrification. issued important declarations regarding the EV, and increase the sales of EVs. these recommendations shortly. phasing out of fossil-fuel vehicles over the next I invite all Canadians to be responsible for 10 to 20 years. The rapid evolution of technology their future and to take the time to consider Chantal Guimont and big announcements from auto manufactur- buying or leasing an EV right now and enjoy the ers are bringing more and more car models to the latest technology along with all its benefits. Chantal Guimont is the President and CEO of Electric market. There is no turning back— we can de- As in other leading countries around the Mobility Canada. finitively confirm a clear shift toward electrifi- world, the support of the federal government is ” cation. Today, with a record number of EV models on the market, declining battery prices, and increas- ing range capabilities, there are more reasons to shop for an EV but they are a well-kept secret, even if all major players are committed to mov- ing forward. With strong complementary means, pub- lic and private entities are playing a significant role. In 2017, we observed many new initiatives from coast to coast. To communicate the attrib- utes of EVs, Ontario opened the world’s first Elec- tric Vehicle Discovery Centre. At this one-stop destination, visitors can discover the benefits of electric transportation and take test drives in the latest EV models in a sales-free, no-pressure en- vironment.

Green is great but EVs are better With convenient home-charging capabilities, you can have a full tank of electricity. On the road, there are almost 7,000 public charging stations in Canada, and almost 350 fast-charging stations, with more implemented every day. Fast-char- ging corridors established in , A SPONSORED FEATURE BY MEDIAPLANET MEDIAPLANET 5

Clean Tech Innovations: An Enormous Opportunity to Seize

There is a new industrial revolution underway it from otherwise being released into the atmos- that’s being driven by a global boom in clean in- phere. Since the project started operation in late novation, according to a new report by Canadian 2015, it has safely captured and stored more than think tank Smart Prosperity. With a global mar- two million tonnes of CO2, equivalent to the an- ket estimated to be worth $2.5 trillion by 2022, nual emissions of 500,000 cars. clean innovations are new technologies, prod- They’re also working with Edmonton-based ucts, and practices that improve environmental SBI BioEnergy on a process that can convert vege- performance in any sector of the economy. This is table oils into diesel and jet fuel. Outside of Can- inspiring a wave of innovation that brings with ada, Shell acquired an interest in Silicon Ranch it tremendous opportunity for Canada. And some in the US, a leading developer, owner, and oper- of the biggest players are unlikely allies. Energy ator of solar energy plants, and in Europe, Shell companies like Shell Canada don’t want to sit on has partnered with four top auto manufacturers the sidelines. Instead, they are embracing the to deploy leading-edge electric vehicle charging clean energy transition. technology. Through its New Energies business, Michael Crothers, President and Country launched in 2016, Shell is planning to invest as Chair of Shell Canada, recognizes a moment of much as $1 to 2 billion per year by 2020 into new change when he sees one, and is committed to fuels and renewable power. leading Shell through the transition. He identi- And this is just the tip of the iceberg when it fies three key priorities for the company: main- comes to the energy transition projects Shell has taining their standing as a world-class invest- underway. “Winning in the energy transition ment, thriving in the energy transition, and be- will require us to take risks,” says Crothers. “We ing a force for good. He sees no reason that any will need to make multiple bets on technology of those three should conflict. “I’m proud to work and think in new ways.” for a company that is serious about supporting One of the big bets Shell is making is on Can- society in meeting the challenge of both more ada — and it seems to be a sound one. As a global and cleaner energy,” says Crothers. “It’s not an oil and gas powerhouse now committed to build- either-or.” ing a greener future, Canada has a lot in common And for Crothers, as for all of us, the health of with Shell. Michael Crothers our planet is personal. “I’m about to become a “Canada is the ideal place to drive this change,” President & Country Chair, grandfather,” Crothers says. “As my twin daugh- says Crothers. “The values, resourcefulness, and Shell Canada ters both prepare to become mothers, I reflect willingness to work together create the condi- on the kind of world I want to see their children tions to move to new energy solutions, fight cli- grow up in — and what I can do personally and mate change, and maintain a great standard of through Shell to help us get there.” living — for the health of our planet and for those new grandkids that my family will be welcoming The clean energy transition A diversified portfolio of ideas home soon.” Part of Shell’s efforts in this area have taken is underway, and there’s the form of advocating for policies like carbon D. F. McCourt no stopping it. So how are pricing that incentivize companies to go green — but they have also been taking more direct SPONSORED BY the leaders of the energy action, vowing to cut the carbon footprint of both industry handling it? their operations and their products roughly in half by 2050. To this end, northeast of Edmonton they have built, together with the governments of Alberta and Canada, the massive carbon cap- ture and storage (CCS) Quest project which se-

questers CO2 into permanent storage, preventing

Winning the Global Race for Clean Innovation

Enerkem’s biofuels facility in Edmonton is just one example of Canada’s growing clean innovation story.

generating ideas and developing them into new ly important for clean innovation, which faces well as the research report behind them, at technologies, we are falling behind other coun- unique market barriers, including market prices smartprosperity.ca. tries in getting those innovations to market that do not reflect the costs of pollution. We must act now to secure our place among Stewart Elgie where jobs and wealth are created. Canada’s fu- Governments can help to overcome these bar- the emerging leaders in this new wave of clean Co-Chair, ture economic success could depend on getting riers in many ways: grants to support early re- innovation. The world will build a low-pollution clean innovation right, from start to finish. search and development, loans and financing economy with or without us. Let’s make sure Smart Prosperity Leaders’ Initiative to help technologies scale up; and, importantly, that Canada opts in. Private entrepreneurs and investors pollution pricing, environmental standards, and driving clean innovation procurement policies that stimulate the market Stewart Elgie By now every sector of the economy knows it has Consider Halifax-based Carbon Cure, which cap- demand for cleaner solutions. something to gain from clean innovation. They tures carbon emissions and then injects them Last week I joined 27 CEOs and Canadian lead- Stewart Elgie is professor of law and economics at the see the $2.5 trillion projection for the global clean into concrete. That clean innovation has now ers in recommending bold and urgent action to University of Ottawa, and Co-Chair of the Smart Pros- technology market, the $3.6 trillion in business been picked up by almost 100 concrete producers accelerate clean innovation in Canada. At the perity Leaders’ Initiative. opportunities related to resource innovation and across North America. -based Enerkem core of these recommendations was a simple for- efficiency, and their Chinese, US, and European partnered with the City of Edmonton to divert mula. On one hand, Canada needs to push ahead competitors gaining a low-carbon edge. They al- 30 percent of household waste and turn it into a with strong environmental rules. Policies like so see a growing number of homegrown success- valuable biofuel — a clean innovation that just pollution pricing and low-carbon fuel standards, SPONSORED BY es, from the first all-electric mine in North Amer- earned them a $125-million deal with China. when designed well, stimulate action from in- ica to trailblazing expertise in carbon capture To accelerate clean innovation at the pace we novators. At the same time, the government and storage, and exciting ventures in biochem- need, governments must play a role to provide needs to match those environmental standards icals, wastewater treatment, and energy storage. incentives and remove barriers to unleash pri- with incentives to keep businesses competi- How do we make sure businesses keep up? Our vate initiative and investment. In fact, almost tive as they make the transition. That means re- global competitors are passing us by — in the every major commercial innovation of the last ducing regulatory barriers and providing tax in- cleantech sector alone, Canada’s global market century – from the smartphone to the internet centives, such as accelerated capital cost allow- share has dropped by 12 percent since 2008. and from the oil sands to canola oil — has need- ance, to support clean technology investment. The challenge is that while we rank highly at ed major government support. This is particular- You can read all the recommendations, as 6 INDUSTRYANDBUSINESS.CA A SPONSORED FEATURE BY MEDIAPLANET

Risk to Resilience: Adapting to the Changing Nature of Floods

of climate change, we are called to rethink how we flood-risk zones were unaware, and less than 30 your flood resiliency at water.cooperators.ca. manage risk to protect what matters most. percent were taking steps to protect themselves. Rain checklists, flood-resilient landscaping like Of the increased risks of a changing climate, After all, why would anyone protect them- rain gardens, and performing regular mainten- flooding has become the most common in Can- selves from something they don’t know is a ance during the year can go a long way to mini- ada. Precipitation is heavier and more localized. threat? mize the risks associated with seasonal flooding. Urbanization has removed the landscape’s abil- It is up to the insurance industry, all levels of To learn more about the flood insurance options ity to absorb water, and aging infrastructure is government, and the research community to available to you, talk to your local advisor or brok- not adequately equipped to deal with it. As a re- work in concert to ensure Canadians have access er, and take action to protect your financial sec- sult, floods we would have expected to see every to the information and tools they need to under- urity and peace of mind. 100, 200— even 500— years are happening on an stand their flood risk and take the necessary To develop solutions to the complex challen- almost yearly basis. action to mitigate it. ges and increased risks of a changing climate, we The impact is significant. Water has now sur- At the same time, government investment will need all hands on deck — individuals, indus- Lisa Guglietti passed fire as the costliest cause of damage to into flood-resilient infrastructure and updated tries, and governments — working together to Executive Vice President & Chief Canadian homes. In 2013, flooding in the GTA and flood maps will help communities adapt to and build safer, more resilient, and sustainable com- Operating Officer, cost the average homeowner $40,000 and plan for the increased risks associated with a munities across Canada. Property and Casualty $78,000, respectively, and over $3 billion in in- changing climate, as an alternative to managing Manufacturing, The Co-operators sured losses. by disaster. Lisa Guglietti According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, In the meantime, The Co-operators will con- the average insured losses due to extreme weath- tinue working in partnership with industry Lisa Guglietti is Executive Vice President and Chief Climate change is redefining er— primarily due to flooding— have reached an peers, all levels of government, and the inter- Operating Officer of Property and Casualty Manufac- flood risk in Canada. It’s time average of $400 million annually since 2009. This national community to raise awareness of flood turing at The Co-operators Group Limited, a Canadian that industry, government, and has increased from an average of $100 million a risk and its economic impact, charge appropri- co-operative insurance and financial services organiza- homeowners take necessary year over the previous 25 years. Not to mention ate premiums for the risk, and put in place mech- tion with over $48 billion in assets under administra- action to build flood resiliency the impact of uninsured losses or the incalculable anisms, products, and solutions that help pro- tion. Through its group of companies it offers home, au- in the face of rapid change. social and human cost of catastrophic flooding. tect the financial security of Canadians and their to, life, group, travel, commercial, and farm insurance, communities. as well as investment products. A problem of perception Despite the devastating headlines we’ve seen re- Adapting to the new normal Our world is changing lated to flooding, research shows that Canadians While the challenges we face are significant, Extreme weather has become more frequent and are largely unaware of their own risk. A 2017 sur- there are relatively simple steps Canadians can SPONSORED BY severe. Historical weather patterns are less reli- vey of 2,300 people conducted by the University take to become more flood resilient. able, and floods, wildfires, and severe storms are of Waterloo and the Partners for Action Network As a first step, you can find out your level of no longer confined by seasons. In this new normal showed that 94 percent of Canadians living in flood risk and access tools and tips to improve

We All Have a Role to Play in Tackling Climate Change

As Canadians, we know how fortunate we are to Thirty years ago, the Disaster Finance Assist- owner’s insurance products. have an abundance of water for the necessities ance Arrangement, which compensates flood As well, Canada’s private insurers are in- of life and for pleasure. victims, paid out about $50 million a year. The vesting millions in innovative data gathering, But we also know that water can be a power- Parliamentary Budget Officer estimates that new flood models, machine learning, and arti- ful and destructive force that demands our re- that number will reach $900 million a year for ficial intelligence to improve their risk models spect. Heavy rains, snow melt, and raging rivers the next five years. And 75% of that is expected and to find new ways to warn clients about their are also part of the spring experience in Canada. to be caused by floods alone. As taxpayers, we weather and flood risks so they can take pre- Many Canadians are struggling to protect should all realize that this is not sustainable. ventive action. IBC recently signed the United themselves and their property from the de- All of us — individual citizens, our govern- Nations Environment’s Principles for Sustain- struction and damage caused by too much ments, and private insurers — have a vested in- able Insurance, which reinforces our commit- water in the wrong places. Flooding caused by terest in reversing this trend. Here in Canada, ment to work with governments, stakeholders, rain, by overflowing rivers, and by rising waters flood protection should be a primary object- and all Canadians to address risk, encourage along our coasts and Great Lakes destroys base- ive of any plan to increase resilience to climate mitigation and adaptation, and tackle the ef- ments or entire homes. Household possessions change. fects of climate change. and cars end up waterlogged, damaged, and Canada’s insurers are working closely with Governments are improving their coordina- total loss write-offs. governments of all orders and advocating for a tion around flood mapping and elevating con- Increasingly, severe weather tied to climate whole-of-society approach to reduce the dam- sumer awareness, and measures are under way change makes the problem worse. The ex- aging effects of floods. This isn’t just a challenge to improve land use planning, tighten building tremes of weather and the wider temperature for governments, and they cannot solve it alone. codes, upgrade infrastructure and sewer and fluctuations resulting from a changing climate Whether you are a bank, a realtor, a retailer, or a stormwater drainage, and preserve or restore mean more and heavier rainfall, higher winds, consumer, everyone has a role to play. natural stormwater buffers such as wetlands. and more storms and hurricanes. No region of The easiest — and expected — response for Water is precious and life-giving. It can also the country is immune — however, the damage insurers would be to pass these costs along to destroy. Here in Canada, our appreciation for is escalating fastest in our high-density urban consumers. But that’s not a long-term solution, what we have must recognize both aspects of areas. nor is it in the best interest of Canadians. We water. As you would expect, Canada’s home, car, and want to play a leadership role, and that’s why we We all have a role to play in tackling climate business insurers have noticed an increase in are working with key stakeholders on adapting change. We call on policymakers, the financial Don Forgeron claims for property losses as a result of an in- to and mitigating the risks of climate change. sector, and all Canadians to work together on crease in flooding. Thirty years ago, insurers Insurers are offering new insurance prod- mitigation and adaptation efforts and to build a President & CEO, paid out about $400 million a year in weath- ucts to Canadians to help them reduce their fi- more resilient country. Insurance Bureau of Canada er-related losses in Canada. Now $1 billion a year nancial risks from flooding. Many insurers now is the new normal. offer overland flood policies along with sewer The federal government has also noticed. backup policies as part of their suite of home- Don Forgeron A SPONSORED FEATURE BY MEDIAPLANET MEDIAPLANET 7 Keeping the Water Flowing: How One Organization HOW WILL WE is Leading the Way

COVER THE COSTS OF Many of us take our water system for grant- ges for our water system, including climate ed — we expect clean drinking water to flow change and urban growth — just two of the CLIMATE CHANGE? from our taps, our wastewater to be treated, issues that the association is taking a leading and our rivers and lakes to be clean. But those role on. things don’t just happen on their own. They “Climate change has a direct impact on require constant attention and decisions water management, through the effect of backed by sound science. melting glaciers or sea ice and more frequent For the past four decades, the 1,300-mem- rainfall events with higher frequency, inten- ber Water Environment Association of On- sity and duration,” says Edgar Tovilla, who tario has guided policy-makers in govern- sits on the association’s Climate Change Com- mittee. “These effects have a direct impact on our stormwater management and sanitary system infrastructure.” If we think that events happening else- where in the world won’t impact us, we need Currently, the model most utilities use to fi- We need to ask to reconsider our assumptions, because cli- nance their systems follows a fee-for-service ourselves“ if we are mate change is a global problem. “We need format. Though households and businesses pay to ask ourselves if we are doing enough here for the water they use, the current rates may doing enough here to address climate change,” explains Tovilla. not cover all costs — particularly as Canadians “Canada has 20 percent of the world’s fresh- adopt water conservation. These rates are based to address climate water supply, which poses an additional bu- Bernadette Conant on consumption, so when people use less water, rden of responsibility to protect our water re- CEO, utility revenues decline. The bulk of the costs for change. sources.” Canadian Water Network water and wastewater treatment remain con- Urban development is another challenge sistent, independent of volumetric use. Given the that can put added strain on the pipes in our As Canadians, we expect high-quality water sys- reality of escalating costs and the future risks of water systems. As our communities grow, so tems that are operated in a fiscally responsible climate change, the current funding model is no too does the need to expand our water infra- manner. However, it’s going to become more and longer sustainable. ment and industry. Through research and col- structure. By monitoring our infrastructure more difficult for utilities to “balance the books”, To mark World Water Day on March 22, Can- laboration, they help” ensure our water system and conducting research, the Water Environ- given the climate change challenges that lie adian Water Network (CWN) released a new re- is safe and can handle our changing environ- ment Association of Ontario has its pulse on ahead. port on the financial sustainability of Canada’s ment and increased growth of our commun- the environment, so government and indus- Some problems, like Canada’s aging water water systems. This report looks at current util- ities. try leaders have the best information to keep infrastructure, have been years in the making. ity practices and identifies a menu of opportun- “The protection of our water environment the water flowing. Yet fixing it will cost billions of dollars, and it’s ities for government regulators and utilities to is critical,” notes John Presta, the associ- a problem that we can’t keep putting off. When consider, including new rate structures, building ation’s President. “We don’t advocate a par- Ken Donohue infrastructure fails, service levels, public safe- climate change resiliency into financial plan- ticular position, but we provide science-based ty, and costs can be impacted. Energy costs have ning, finding energy savings, reducing gaps in information. Water infrastructure is capital SPONSORED BY also skyrocketed, with some utilities facing 70 system knowledge, improving asset manage- intensive, and if we are not investing in the to 140 percent increases. Water and wastewater ment data, and adopting advanced metering right strategies, government and organiza- utilities in the City of use more than two technology. tions can find themselves wasting hundreds million gigajoules of energy per year — the in- Canada’s water and wastewater utilities will of millions of dollars.” creases add up. need to squeeze on both ends — finding cost sav- Utilities also need to consider future risks. ings but also spending more. As they pivot to Pressures on our water system The potential impacts of climate change, such as new approaches, municipalities will need to in- There are a lot of factors that create challen- flooding, freezing, wildfire, or drought, can carry vest wisely and proactively. These are collective huge price tags for recovery, repair, and rebuild- investments that will impact all of us, which is ing. Municipalities that have experienced cli- why Canadians should read the CWN report and mate extremes are preparing for this new reality. engage with local city councillors and utilities As Rob Spackman, Director of Water Resources at to ask and answer two fundamental questions: the City of Calgary, explains, “We are investing in “What is water worth?” and “How will we pay for measures to reduce disaster risks and strength- the systems we want and need?” en resilience for future climate conditions. Rain- fall intensity is increasing, so reducing existing Bernadette Conant exposure and preventing further exposure is in- tegral to our decision-making process. Calgary is currently upgrading the gates on Glenmore Res- ervoir to increase storage along the Elbow River, which is critical for both flood and drought con- John Presta Edgar Tovilla ditions. Our community drainage improvement Board President, Manager, program also aims to reduce the risk of storm Water Environment Wastewater Operations at water flooding.” Association of Ontario Region of Peel

Oceans Play Critical Role in Our

Lives and Must Be we have been doing for generations. a society we need to do Increased human consumption of plastics is a growing Handled with Care more to take care of them. Science is problem and has led to an accumulation of plastics in the helping Canadians better understand the deep connection ocean. As indestructible debris, pieces of plastic and the e see oceans on postcards and in photos from we have with the ocean — including its impacts on us and toxins they absorb are consumed by marine animals — family vacations, but rarely think of them how we impact the ocean. including sharks and sea turtles — and passed up the food as more than a setting for fun and adventure. Research scientist Peter Galbraith of Fisheries and chain, later ending up on our dinner plates. Oceans cover more than 70 percent of our planet Oceans Canada is dedicated to understanding changes in Plastic waste pollution is accumulating in the marine and are prime regulators of the climate. They play a vital our waters such as ocean warming. “If we’re going to be environment in tandem with climate change effects such role in the health of every living being— so it’s extremely stewards and custodians of oceans, we have to understand as ocean acidification and warming waters. Together, they important to take care of and learn more about them. these great resources and track how they are responding to are affecting the ocean, making it harder to maintain “The oceans play a critical role in meeting the most climate change,” says Galbraith. healthy ecosystems. fundamental human needs,” says Dalhousie University He is studying how a warmer climate affects water “Plastic is a huge problem and every individual professor and Marine Biologist Boris Worm. “Oceans temperature and winter sea-ice formation. He notes, “We contributes to it in a real sense, especially when we rely on provide us with most of the air we breathe as the plants in can’t slow oceans warming if air temperature rises. But we single-use plastic items like water bottles and disposable the water produce oxygen as a byproduct of photosynthesis. can plan accordingly.” utensils,” says Worm. They also play a central part of the hydrologic cycle — the His research work has practical applications. This should be a big concern for Canadians because our process in which water passes into the atmosphere as vapor In planning for the future, governments and fishing country is an ocean nation; it has the longest coastlines in and returns to the earth as precipitation.” industry stakeholders are able to use research information the world, including three oceans and an inland sea. About 46 percent of the world’s population depends on to understand how climate change may influence fish “We depend on the oceans and need to be smarter about oceans for their primary source of food and micronutrients. distribution and productivity, or even the spring timing of how we treat them,” says Worm. “They have given us a lot Oceans also regulate our climate, and are the biggest carbon the lobster fishery. but we have not been giving a whole lot back. We must take sink for human-generated emissions. steps collectively and individually to change that.” Handling the ocean with care Becoming stewards and custodians of the Boris Worm says that one of the many steps we could take Randi Druzin oceans to help the oceans — alongside reducing our carbon foot- Oceans are vital for our economy and health, and as print — is ceasing to use them as a garbage dump, which 8 INDUSTRYANDBUSINESS.CA A SPONSORED FEATURE BY MEDIAPLANET ForestIt Takes a to Fight Climate Change

Aerial view of the Pineland Forest in Northern Ontario.

limate change mitigation requires action on Canada’s forests are an important carbon reservoir, and the many fronts and across all sectors of the econ- nation’s leadership in sustainable forest management en- omy. Forests are a great Canadian treasure and sures they will continue to play a role in the fight against cli- Kevin Edgson a source of life, inspiration, and endless innova- mate change. Governments and businesses can help by devel- President & CEO, tive products. They also offer solutions to climate oping policies and procurement processes that promote and in- EACOM Timber Corporation change.C The Canadian forest products sector can make a major crease the use of forest products sourced from well-managed contribution to mitigation efforts. forests. Organizations and individuals can support policies and Canada’s forests cover a greater land area than most other programs that encourage the use of wood and promote tree nations. Still, less than one percent of our forests is harvested planting activities. Individuals can also contribute by choos- in any given year. By law, these forests must be regenerated af- ing sustainable forest products in their daily lives. For our part, ter a harvest, so each year, some 500 million trees are planted in EACOM has made significant investments in its operations to Canada is uniquely Canada to regenerate forests that have been harvested. As trees optimize the return from each tree, ensuring we produce no positioned“ to grow, they absorb carbon dioxide and store it. Younger forests are waste. For example, wood residues are consumed to generate more efficient in their uptake of carbon compared to older for- energy for mill processes, replacing fossil fuels. meet the world’s ests that release carbon as trees decay. It is therefore important The uses for forest products continue to expand, from cloth- to capture that carbon before it is released into the atmosphere. ing to bioplastics and biochemicals to innovative construction growing demand for Once a tree is harvested, carbon storage continues as trees are systems, providing alternatives that can store carbon and dis- products created converted into forest products, such as lumber, which stores place more CO2-intensive products. Canada is uniquely pos- carbon in buildings — in fact, about 50 percent of the dry weight itioned to meet the world’s growing demand for products creat- from responsibly and of wood is carbon. ed from responsibly and sustainably managed forests, thereby At EACOM, we are proud that trees harvested in Northern On- lightening the world’s environmental load. sustainably managed tario are processed in Timmins and used to build homes in To- The United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate forests, thereby ronto. With growing environmental awareness, architects and Change finds that “In the long term, a sustainable forest builders are choosing to build with wood in an effort to contrib- management strategy aimed at maintaining or increasing for- lightening the world’s ute to sustainable development. The University of British Col- est carbon stocks while producing an annual sustained yield of umbia’s Brock Commons facility is among the world’s tallest timber, fibre, or energy from the forest will generate the largest environmental load. wood building, at 18 storeys, with a mitigation impact of 2,432 sustained mitigation benefit.”

metric tons of CO2. FPInnovations, one of the world’s largest for- Tackle climate change. Use wood. est research organization, estimates that a 100,000-square-foot wooden building is the equivalent of taking 1,400 cars off the Kevin Edgson road each year. ”

Parks and protected areas have been established percent of the planet’s surface, but store more carbon across Canada to conserve many things we value. Banff than all of the world’s forests combined. Many of the Is it Time For National Park was originally established in 1885 to pro- peatlands in Europe and in tropical nations have been tect hot springs and breathtaking scenery for tourists. lost and degraded by clearing and drainage, releasing In 1893, Algonquin Provincial Park was set up to protect their carbon into the atmosphere. Canada has more forested headwaters from settlement and land clear- peatlands than any other nation, and most of these Canada and the ing. Over the last 130 years, more than 8,300 parks and are still intact. Protecting peatlands and other habitats protected areas have been established across Canada. that hold carbon can be Canada’s key global contribu- These areas protect rare species, representative habi- tion to climate change. World to Create tats, spectacular scenery, recreational areas and places The establishment and conservation of carbon of cultural importance. parks would have many other benefits. They would In a world where rapid climate change is impacting protect some of the world’s last areas of true forest wil- Carbon Parks? the stability of our planet’s health and threatening the derness and important wildlife habitats. They would well-being of future generations, we must consider if it maintain water quality. They would complement is time to establish carbon parks and reserves. ongoing conservation efforts by Indigenous commun- Nature plays an important role in carbon storage ities. Carbon parks in southern Canada could play a and reducing carbon pollution. When we lose forests, critical two-for-one role in climate change. Peatlands, wetlands and grasslands, we lose species and habitats. wetlands, forests and grasslands store carbon, but also We also lose the carbon that these lands store in soil, help to buffer nature and people from the increasing Dan Kraus roots and stems. number of extreme weather events, such as floods and National Conservation Biologist, Carbon parks and reserves would support Canada’s Nature Conservancy of Canada internationally agreed upon Target 1 commitment to protect 17 percent of land and inland waters protected by 2020. This target also includes con- serving areas that are important for their ecological services, meaning places that Canada can play a key conserve nature’s benefits to people. In role in establishing“ a world that is quickly warming and shifting to a new abnormal, carbon a global network of storage is a service that we des- perately need. carbon reserves. Canada can play a leader- ship role in establishing a global network of carbon reserves. There are few other places on the planet that have as much land-based carbon drought. The protection of these places also protects stored as Canada. It’s been the quality of our drinking” water and provides places estimated that our north- for recreation. Carbon parks are nature-based solutions lands hold one-fifth of all the for a new low-carbon economy. carbon dioxide in the atmos- Canada’s protected areas already hold vast amounts phere today. The release of this of carbon. This has happened by default, and not by carbon from Canada’s north- design. We are a big country blessed with a rich nat- ern forests and peatlands ural endowment, but it could slip away without our would be like a carbon bomb action. Wetlands, forests and grasslands are continu- going off. It would move the ing to disappear. This is a loss for nature, and a loss for Earth further into uncharted Canadians. There is a new urgency to expand our pro- levels of atmospheric carbon tected areas system with new parks and Indigenous dioxide. This would accelerate Protected and Conserved Areas, and by working with the changes to our climate private landowners through organizations such as the that we are already witness- Nature Conservancy of Canada and the Natural Areas ing. Conservation Program. In Canada, much of this By incorporating considerations about biodivers- carbon is stored in peatlands, a ity, carbon storage and climate change adaptation into type of wetland often referred protected areas, we can accelerate the conservation of to by its Cree name: muskeg. our lands and waters, and reduce climate uncertainty Peatlands cover only three for our children.