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Circular Economy Magazine

CERIEC: Tester des solutions concrètes pour la circularité

Le travail des agents et des agentes de changement se déroule souvent de manière isolée. Cependant, pour faire progresser l’économie circulaire plus efficacement, avec une approche durable et équitable, nous devons aborder les enjeux sous tous leurs angles, à travers toute la chaîne de valeur.

Nous avons discuté avec Daniel Normandin, Directeur du CERIEC et Directeur exécutif du RRECQ, de la manière dont les laboratoires d’accélération  et les projets d’expérimentation qui en découlent mènent à des solutions concrètes, testées sur le terrain, pour accélérer la transition du Québec : un modèle pouvant être reproduit partout en Amérique du Nord.

Comment le CERIEC et le RRECQ soutiennent-ils l’écosystème d’innovation du Québec et font-ils progresser l’économie circulaire ? 

Basé à l’École de technologie supérieure (ÉTS), une école d’ingénieurs située à Montréal, le CERIEC est un centre de recherche dont les membres-chercheur.euse.s sont issu.e.s de tous les domaines du génie. Au CERIEC, l’innovation est intimement liée à son principal dispositif de recherche appelé « laboratoires d’accélération sectoriels en économie circulaire », lequel repose sur le concept de « laboratoires vivants ». En vertu de cette approche, les expert.e.s du CERIEC mobilisent et animent des acteur.trice.s clés d’un secteur donné dans la totalité de sa chaîne de valeur. 

De concert avec des chercheur.euse.s de diverses disciplines et sous la supervision des expert.e.s du CERIEC, les acteur.trice.s concerné.e.s développent une vision commune de ce même secteur « plus circulaire » à l’horizon de 2040. Les barrières et les freins à cette vision sont ensuite co-identifiés et les solutions pour lever ces freins sont cocréées avec l’ensemble des parties prenantes. 

Ces solutions sont testées sur le terrain via des projets d’expérimentation. Elles peuvent être technologiques, règlementaires ou autres. Les connaissances ainsi générées sont, tout au long du processus, transférées vers les utilisateurs et accessibles en fin de projet sur une plateforme ouverte. 

Trois secteurs sont actuellement investis via ce dispositif, soit les secteurs de la construction, des systèmes alimentaires et des textiles. L’ensemble de ces labs constitue un écosystème appelé « ELEC » (Écosystème de laboratoires d’accélération en économie circulaire). D’autres secteurs économiques clés seront également abordés au cours des mois et des années à venir.

Pour sa part, le RRECQ regroupe plus de 300 chercheuses et chercheur.euse.s universitaires et collégiaux.ales membres issu.e.s de plus d’une soixantaine de disciplines, provenant du Québec, mais également d’universités hors Québec et hors Canada. 

Reconnu comme étant le plus important réseau de recherche interdisciplinaire en économie circulaire au monde (selon la Fondation britannique Ellen MacArthur) et soutenu par les Fonds de recherche du Québec, le réseau met en œuvre une programmation de recherche innovante, qui repose sur treize thématiques et projets structurants. 

Ces thématiques et projets visent à parfaire le système de production – consommation que constitue l’économie circulaire sous tous ses angles, afin de le rendre plus opérationnalisable, plus durable, plus performant, plus juste et plus équitable. 

À travers ses appels à projets, ses colloques scientifiques et ses activités de maillage et de transfert, le RRECQ favorise les chocs d’idées et les initiatives inter et transdisciplinaires conduisant à des avancées pour la transition.

Quels avantages uniques offre le paysage d’innovation du Québec pour favoriser des solutions d’économie circulaire, et comment ces forces peuvent-elles être exploitées pour soutenir des solutions au-delà des frontières québécoises ?

Ayant débuté sa transition circulaire en 2014, le Québec fait office de pionnier en Amérique du Nord. C’est le milieu académique qui a fait office de bougie d’allumage pour le mouvement et, rapidement, des acteurs stratégiques, issus des milieux industriels, associatifs, environnementaux, gouvernementaux et académiques se sont ralliés, au sein d’une initiative appelée « Pôle québécois de concertation en économie circulaire », dont l’objectif est de définir et de contribuer à mettre en place les conditions favorables à la transition. 

Cette mobilisation multisectorielle et interdisciplinaire unique a permis de jeter les bases d’une transformation systémique du modèle économique québécois. Regroupant plus d’une vingtaine d’acteurs, le Pôle sert à la fois de groupe de rétroaction pour le milieu académique, et de courroie de transmission des connaissances issues du milieu académique vers les milieux preneurs. 

L’approche résolument horizontale, la coopération, l’établissement de partenariats innovants, durables, et la pollinisation croisée des idées représentent des éléments clés de la transition québécoise. Le modèle d’un pôle de concertation est tout à fait réplicable à l’échelle du Canada et au-delà. Il en est de même pour les labs d’accélération développés au Québec. 

Enfin, le RRECQ, par sa taille et le nombre de disciplines représentées, est unique au monde.

Comment le CERIEC et le RRECQ collaborent-ils avec les entreprises, le milieu académique et les gouvernements pour développer des solutions circulaires au Québec ?

Le CERIEC et le RRECQ participent aux commissions publiques pour définir les feuilles de route gouvernementales, qu’elles soient provinciales ou régionales, de même que les législations relatives à l’économie circulaire. Les deux organisations mobilisent les entreprises, le milieu académique et les gouvernements afin de prendre part à leurs activités de recherche-action.

Le déploiement de l’économie circulaire requiert une approche systémique et la collaboration inédite des parties prenantes. C’est dans cet esprit que l’ELEC est mis en œuvre. La méthodologie d’animation de ses labs permet d’établir des objectifs communs, des méthodes, des outils et des indicateurs spécifiques. 

Au fil des ateliers menés par l’équipe de l’ELEC, les parties prenantes mobilisées apprennent à travailler ensemble, à imaginer et à cocréer des solutions qui répondent aux préoccupations des secteurs investis et aux besoins du terrain.

Le RRECQ, à l’interface entre recherche et société, consulte et mobilise les savoirs d’une variété de parties prenantes afin d’orienter ses recherches et de faire en sorte que les résultats de ses travaux soient bien orientés sur les besoins de la société en matière de transition.

De quelle manière l’Écosystème de laboratoires d’accélération du CERIEC permet-il d’obtenir des résultats innovants concrets favorables à la transition ?

Financé par Desjardins et par le ministère de l’Économie, de l’Innovation et de l’Énergie (MEIE), le Lab construction, premier laboratoire d’accélération du CERIEC lancé en 2021, a mobilisé plus de 300 personnes issues de plus de 125 organisations. Les ateliers, qui se sont déroulés sur 12 mois, et les projets d’expérimentation qui ont suivi sur 24 mois, ont permis de cocréer 17 solutions concrètes, testées sur le terrain à travers 19 projets. 

Parmi ceux-ci, mentionnons un projet de réemploi de matériaux issus de la déconstruction de bâtiments en Gaspésie, un projet de rénovation circulaire d’un duplex, un projet d’intégration de granulats bitumineux recyclés dans des travaux routiers.

Pouvez-vous partager des exemples de projets du RRECQ qui soutiennent les milieux preneurs dans leur transition ?

Le RRECQ a contribué au financement de plusieurs outils pratiques pour les milieux économiques. Les professeures Cécile Fonrouge et Amina Lamghari, de l’Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, ont développé un outil et une stratégie d’analyse des données ouvertes permettant à une organisation de créer un nouveau modèle d’affaires circulaire ou de parfaire son modèle circulaire existant. 

Le professeur François Labelle, de la même université, s’est penché sur un outil en ligne qui permet aux PME de prendre conscience des pratiques de circularité qu’elles peuvent adopter, des retombées positives qui en découlent, d’obtenir une évaluation de leur niveau de maturité sur le sujet, et surtout d’être dirigées vers d’autres PME qui leur ressemblent et qui sont championnes en la matière : l’Indice de circularité des PME 4.0. 

Le professeur Marc Journeault, de l’Université Laval, cotitulaire du RRECQ, a codéveloppé, avec des collègues du Centre de transfert technologique en écologie industrielle (CTTEI), un guide à l’attention des entreprises, afin qu’elles puissent réaliser une analyse des coûts de leurs flux de matières (ACFM).

Plusieurs autres projets financés par le RRECQ ont permis de développer de nouveaux matériaux circulaires, par exemple : une matière première recyclable infusée de métaux pour l’impression 3D, un écobéton à base d’agrégats en fibres textiles recyclées, un matériau composite polymère (PLA) biosourcé comprenant des particules de coquille d’œuf.

Pouvez-vous nous en dire plus sur les efforts du RRECQ pour développer une feuille de route à long terme pour l’économie circulaire au Québec ?

La transition vers un modèle économique différent nécessite de profonds changements qui ne seront durables qu’avec une transformation informée, débattue et, surtout, choisie. C’est en réponse à ce constat que le RRECQ a lancé le projet prospectif et participatif de Feuille de route pour la transition vers une économie circulaire de la société québécoise 2025 – 2050.

À l’échelle mondiale, de nombreuses feuilles de route en économie circulaire ont émergé ces dernières années. Parmi ces initiatives, au Québec, figure la feuille de route gouvernementale en économie circulaire 2024-2028, celles de la Montérégie, des Laurentides, de Sherbrooke, de Montréal et de la Communauté métropolitaine de Québec. 

Ces feuilles de route, élaborées dans un esprit de cocréation, soulignent l’importance des synergies entre les acteur.trice.s locaux.ales pour réussir une transition, en s’adaptant aux particularités de chaque territoire.

La feuille de route du RRECQ vise, quant à elle, à connecter l’ensemble des initiatives. Elle constitue un guide souple pour orienter les actions sur le terrain. Elle n’impose pas d’actions précises, mais reflète la vision collective d’un avenir circulaire. 

Les savoirs mobilisés, les jalons prioritaires à franchir et leurs interactions, ainsi que des exemples d’initiatives inspirantes et des meilleures pratiques, forment un ensemble de repères essentiels. 

Pour cette raison, le RRECQ a mobilisé dans sa démarche plus de 250 personnes d’horizons variés pour imaginer ensemble une vision, ainsi qu’une cinquantaine d’expert.e.s pour définir les 67 jalons à atteindre entre 2025 et 2050 afin de relier le présent au futur souhaité.

En regardant vers l’avenir, quels sont vos espoirs pour l’économie circulaire au Canada au cours de la prochaine décennie, et comment vos organisations envisagent-elles de contribuer à cette vision ? 

En 2021, des expert.e.s du Conseil des académies canadiennes ont publié le rapport Un tournant décisif analysant ce qu’est l’économie circulaire, comment elle fonctionne et comment elle pourrait profiter au Canada. Nous espérons que le gouvernement fédéral s’en inspire et qu’il élabore et mette en œuvre une feuille de route pouvant mobiliser l’ensemble des provinces et territoires canadiens. 

Le RRECQ et le CERIEC s’engagent à poursuivre et à intensifier leurs collaborations avec les décideurs, les milieux preneurs et les collègues des universités hors Québec afin de faire du Canada un chef de file nord-américain en matière d’économie circulaire.

Cet article a été co-écrit par Émilie Chiasson, Conseillère en communication.

This story was featured in the Circular Economy Magazine:

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Circular Economy Magazine

Canada Plastics Pact: Eliminating Plastic Waste & Pollution

From flexible plastic bags to single-use jugs, plastics are completely embedded in our everyday lives. This pervasiveness has led to plastic waste ending up in our landfills, oceans, and bodies — a problem that can’t be stopped by one organization alone. Luckily, there’s a network for the job.

We spoke with Cher Mereweather, Managing Director of the Canada Plastics Pact, about how this organization’s collaborative efforts are keeping the right plastics in the economy and all plastics out of people, animals, and nature. 

How does the Canada Plastics Pact (CPP) bring together diverse stakeholders to create a circular economy for plastics?

What attracts industry, associations, government, academia, and nonprofits to the Canada Plastics Pact is its vision: to eliminate plastic waste and pollution in Canada. We all know that no single organization or sector can solve the plastic crisis alone. 

Plastics are ubiquitous, complex, and completely embedded in our value chains. Eliminating plastic waste and pollution presents significant challenges, including complex material design, insufficient reuse and recycling infrastructure, limited end markets for recycled materials, and the lack of harmonized approaches across Canada. To solve these challenges, it will require a mobilization of leaders and experts across sectors — that’s where the CPP steps in.

Take, for example, the challenges surrounding the recycling of film and flexible plastic packaging. Flexibles account for 41% of plastic packaging generated in Canada but only about 4% of it gets recycled. To address this issue, we established our Flexibles Working Group and brought together experts to lead it. In 2023, we released a shared action plan focused on addressing the complexities of flexible plastic packaging and outlined the steps needed.

Through this work, a key challenge identified with flexible packaging is the use of multi-layer materials. A typical flexible plastic package, such as a bag of nuts, can consist of up to nine different layers of material. Our Golden Design Rules for Plastics Packaging — nine design rules focused on improving the recyclability of plastic packaging — calls for moving to a single, or “mono-material.” 

So, while it can still have multiple layers, they are all of the same material, making it easier to capture and recycle. We’ve shared guidance on how to make this transition, and in 2024, alongside the U.S. Plastics Pact, we co-hosted an exclusive knowledge series to identify innovative ways to address some of the technical challenges in transitioning to mono-material flexibles and films.

Our Flexibles Group is one of 10 Working Groups at the CPP bringing together diverse expertise to tackle the barriers and challenges in areas such as source reduction, packaging redesign, reuse systems, recycled content, policy and infrastructure, and data transparency, to name a few.

At CPP, our goals are ambitious because the stakes are high. With landfills overflowing, plastic gyres swirling in our oceans, and microplastics infiltrating the air, water, and our bodies, we need collective action, innovation, and collaboration. 

Our hands-on approach ensures that Partners don’t just talk about solutions — they implement them. Being part of the Pact means committing to action and accountability. It’s about showing up to collaboratively create change, leveraging and learning from each partner’s strengths, and measuring progress transparently.

Can you share a success story where collaboration within the CPP led to measurable impact for reducing plastic waste?

When I joined the CPP in early 2023, the organization was starting to lay the foundational groundwork needed to build momentum. With several valuable tools and guides developed, there was also a growing need to deliver tangible, on-the-ground impact. To address this, we launched our Accelerators, starting with a focus on Reuse in early 2024.

This initiative identified existing reuse and refill solutions and brought together companies, investors, and government funding to scale them. 

Partially funded by Environment and Climate Change Canada, this initiative invested in EcoTank Canada and Canadian Tire Corporation (CTC) to expand bulk windshield washer dispensers across Ontario and Québec, and in Friendlier to scale reusable packaging at post-secondary education campuses in Ontario and British Columbia.

CTC and EcoTank’s source reduction initiative aims to significantly reduce the use of single-use windshield washer fluid jugs, which previously accounted for over 6 million units of plastic annually, or 800,000 kg of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic. 

Every jug avoided through these dispensers not only reduces plastic waste but also extends producer responsibility (EPR) fees, giving companies more incentive to cut plastic use and switch to reusable systems where it makes sense. With the support of CPP’s Reuse Accelerator, CTC added another 20+ dispensers to Canadian Tire Gas+ gas bars in Ontario and Québec in 2024.

Meanwhile, Friendlier’s efforts to scale reusable packaging have already diverted more than 142,000 kg of plastic waste through the reuse of over 2.4 million food packages. They set out to convert 50% of southern Ontario campuses, but with the desire for reuse in other provinces, their scope has extended Canada-wide, with a goal to convert 10 additional campuses and to increase product offerings at locations where Friendlier is already operating.

How does the CPP align with global strategies for circularity in plastics?

The CPP is an active participant in the Plastics Pact Network, convened by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation and the Waste and Resource Action Programme (WRAP). We are among 13 Plastics Pacts, which unite over 900 businesses, governments, and organizations to drive regional efforts to tackle plastic waste and pollution. The latest data from 2022 shows that the combined efforts of this network have prevented the use of over 2.2 million tonnes of virgin plastic, with some Pact countries tripling recycled content rates in plastic packaging.

Like every Pact, we have worked alongside our Partners to establish a national roadmap toward a circular economy for plastics. This includes providing knowledge and guidance, piloting and scaling innovative solutions to ensure the right plastics stay in the economy and all plastics stay out of people, animals, and nature.

While we’ve made significant strides within our region, tackling this global challenge requires collaboration across borders. Given our proximity to and close economic ties with the United States, we maintain strong alignment with the U.S. Plastics Pact. Looking ahead, we are planning to work with the U.S. Plastics Pact on initiatives focused on the elimination of unnecessary and problematic plastics to drive greater impact at scale in the North American market.

We have also worked with the Consumer Goods Forum’s Plastic Waste Coalition of Action on implementing a Canadianized version of the Golden Design Rules for Plastic Packaging. 

Each Pact works to break down silos in their own regions and then brings the learnings to the network to advance our shared vision. Given the effectiveness of the Plastic Pact Network, we also see ourselves as being instrumental in the execution of the Global Plastics Treaty — an international agreement to address plastic pollution — once finalized.  

What is the biggest challenge to working with a diversity of stakeholders across the entire plastics value chain?

The biggest challenge is aligning the many different priorities, perspectives, and goals. While we share a common purpose and vision, creating a circular economy for plastics doesn’t have a silver bullet solution. Everyone — from producers and manufacturers to retailers, policymakers, and recyclers — views the issues through their own lens. 

But this challenge is also our greatest asset. Breaking down silos enables us to bring together these diverse viewpoints to experiment with and develop innovative solutions that no single company or organization could identify, tackle, or scale on its own. 

The CPP works to find common ground while respecting the unique roles each stakeholder plays. By working collaboratively, we can address the complex issues and the tensions that exist while minimizing the unintended consequences so that the work we’re doing is practical and has a lasting positive impact.

What are your key priorities and focus areas over the next ten years?

From the outset, we understood that reaching the ambitious goals would require large-scale collaboration and innovation. Working toward the targets set by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation has provided us with deeper insights into what it will take to achieve them in a Canadian context.

At the heart of this effort is the need for a shared vision for Canada — a unified path toward a circular economy for plastics. This involves collaboratively setting the agenda and aligning on design principles so that we are reducing virgin plastic, eliminating unnecessary and problematic plastics, scaling reuse/refill systems, innovating the plastics we do need to be recyclable, and increasing the use of post-consumer recycled content.

The next phase of our journey — our Roadmap to 2035 — is the product of a major collaborative effort from across our Partnership. This evolving document, to be launched in 2025, charts Canada’s path to a circular economy for plastic packaging and outlines the critical role CPP will play in driving this transition.

Will we be able to say in the next decade that we’ve eliminated all plastic waste and pollution in Canada? Likely not. What we do know is that we have a clear vision and a committed group of Partners focused on advancing solutions that will keep the right plastics in the economy and all plastics out of people, animals, and nature. 

We know this because the achievements we have made so far would not have been possible without the Pact’s unprecedented collaborative effort to rethink how we use, design, and recover plastics. In other words, we are not just talking about what needs to be done, we are making it happen. We hope you will join us in shaping the future of plastics in Canada.

This story was featured in the Circular Economy Magazine:

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Events Impact Inspiration & Initiatives

30 Purpose-Driven Events to Attend in April – June, 2025

As we move through 2025, purpose-driven events continue to create spaces for meaningful conversations, collaboration, and impact across key areas like the circular economy, diversity and inclusion, climate action, and social justice. Whether you’re looking to deepen your knowledge, connect with industry leaders, or take action on critical global issues, these events provide an opportunity to drive change.

We’ve tracked down 30 learning, collaboration, and networking opportunities, both online and in-person, in Canada and globally, so you can stay engaged and inspired.

Keep reading to learn all about the purpose-driven events happening this April, May, and June.

April

A Path Forward: Anti-Racism in Action, From Individuals to Organizations

Date: April 1, 2025, from 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM EDT
Location: Online

Description: Join this webinar for practical strategies to combat racism, promote equity, and build a more inclusive workplace and community.

UN Global Compact Network Canada – Climate Action Accelerator: Information Session

Date: April 2, 2025, from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT

Location: Online

Description: This live Q&A session provides insights into the Climate Action Accelerator program, outlining what participants can expect to learn and achieve while addressing any attendee questions.

Basque Circular Summit

Date: April 2 – 4, 2025

Location: Bilbao, Spain

Description: This summit explores the progress and opportunities of the circular economy, addressing key environmental challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and biodiversity loss to pave the way for a sustainable economic model.


TED2025: Humanity Reimagined

Date: April 7 – 11, 2025 

Location: Vancouver, British Columbia

Description: This conference brings together global leaders from over 30 industries to envision what human flourishing could look like in the future, whether enabled by AI’s superpowers, revolutionary biological technology, or new expressions of creativity, kindness, and connection.

Indigenomics IMPACT
Date: April 8 – 9, 2025
Location: H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia
Description: This inaugural gathering is an immersive journey into Indigenous economic reconciliation through XR storytelling, digital landscapes, and interactive exhibits.

UN Global Compact Network Canada – Virtual Informational Session

Date: April 9, 2025, from 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM EDT

Location: Online

Description: Canadian companies are invited to learn about joining the UN Global Compact, its initiatives, programs, and events. Discover how your organization can drive impact through sustainability.

Embedding Purpose in Corporate Governance: A Panel Discussion With In-House Counsel  

Date: April 10, 2025, from 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM EDT
Location: Online

Description: This webinar brings together in-house counsel from leading organizations to discuss aligning corporate goals with purpose, navigating legal complexities, and integrating purpose into governance and business operations.

CAMSC Procurement Fair 2025

Date: April 15 – 16, 2025

Location: Beanfield Centre, Toronto, Ontario

Description: Organized by the Canadian Aboriginal and Minority Supplier Council and presented by Manulife, this two-day conference offers networking, knowledge-sharing, and discussions on AI and ESG, with a focus on future-proofing supplier diversity.

Canadian Circular Economy Summit 2025

Date: April 15 – 17, 2025 

Location: Fairmont Queen Elizabeth, Montréal, Québec

Description: Sparx is proud to sponsor and attend this summit, uniting leaders across industries to share insights, forge partnerships, and accelerate Canada’s transition to a circular economy. We’ll also be sharing copies of the first-ever issue of Circular Economy Magazine, launched in partnership with Circular Economy Leadership Canada and Circular Innovation Council.

4WARD Global Climate & Sustainability Networking Meetups Vancouver

Date: April 18, 2025, from 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM PDT

Location: Starbucks – 658 Homer Street, Vancouver, British Columbia

Description: At this monthly meetup, connect with 4WARD founders and climate professionals to discuss innovative solutions in the fight against climate change.

Earthx2025 Congress of Conferences

Date: April 21 – 25, 2025

Location: Hilton Anatole, Dallas, Texas

Description: Hosted by EarthX, this forum connects advocates, investors, accelerators, and researchers working to create a sustainable world for future generations.

2nd International Conference on Business, Health, and Climate

Date: April 22 – 25, 2025

Location: Québec City Convention Centre, Québec City, Québec

Description: This conference brings together global leaders to tackle the interconnected challenges of sustainable development, health equity, and climate resilience.

From Scope 3 to Success: Mastering Supply Chain Climate Action

Date: April 24, 2025, from 9:00 AM  – 10:00 AM PDT

Location: Online

Description: Sponsored by CEEZER, this expert panel explores practical ways to scale climate initiatives across supply chains, engage suppliers, and leverage carbon credits.


DC Climate Week

Date: April 28 – May 2, 2025

Location: Washington, DC

Description: Taking place over five days, this conference focuses on a unique theme each day, giving attendees the opportunity to engage with policymakers, learn from experts, and explore cutting-edge climate solutions.

Circularity

Date: Apr 29 – May 1, 2025
Location: Colorado Convention Center, Denver, Colorado 

Description: This premier event focuses on accelerating systems change, empowering attendees to rethink how we make, sell, and circulate products in order to build a just, resilient, and regenerative economy.

SPARK Toronto 2025

Date: April 30, 2025, from 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT 

Location: EY Tower, Toronto, Ontario

Description: Under the theme “From Global to Local,” this event examines recent global progress and challenges faced by 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, emphasizing the crucial role of local action in driving systemic change and equity.

May

Passive House Canada Conference

Date: May 5 – 7, 2025

Location: Delta Hotels Ottawa City Centre, Ottawa, Ontario

Description: This annual event is designed for those passionate about advancing low-carbon, high-performance, sustainable building practices. This year’s theme, “Building Our Low Carbon Future,” explores key issues like climate change, health, and innovation in building practices.

Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion – Asian Heritage Month Panel

Date: May 6, 2025, from 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM EDT

Location: Online

Description: Celebrate Asian Heritage Month with a webinar featuring community leaders who have made significant contributions to supporting Asian professionals and fostering career advancement.

2nd Annual World ESG and Climate Summit

Date: May 13 – 14, 2025

Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Description: This international event focuses on sustainability development, the integration of ESG principles across industries, and innovative solutions to pressing environmental and social challenges.


The Purpose Summit 2025

Date: May 13 – 15, 2025

Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
Description: Want to learn from and collaborate with other purpose-driven leaders? Join this summit to reignite your passion, expand your organization’s impact, and explore strategies for driving meaningful change.

Benevity Live!

Date: May 13 – 16, 2025

Location: Palm Springs, California
Description: This annual conference unites together purpose-driven professionals to explore and enhance social impact initiatives and drive meaningful change within their organizations.

Business for Social Good Summit 2025

Date: May 16, 2025, 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM PDT

Location: Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, Vancouver, British Columbia
Description: This event explores “The Promise and Peril of AI”,  examining whether AI will revolutionize business or disrupt the economy. Attendees will hear from experts before engaging in their own discussions.

California Green Building Conference

Date: May 22, 2025

Location: San Francisco, California
Description: Attendees of this leading green building conference will discover the latest advancements in sustainable building practices while networking with industry professionals and innovators.

JEDDI Seminar: Advancing the Calls for Justice

Date: May 23, 2025, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PDT

Location: Online
Description: Join UBC’s Peter P. Dhillon Centre for Business Ethics and Ch’nook for this session on advancing the calls for justice with Katelynn Carter-Rogers, Assistant Professor at St. Francis Xavier University.

Sustainability LIVE: Chicago

Date: May 28 – 29, 2025

Location: Chicago, Illinois
Description: Want to drive your sustainability agenda forward? This event offers a platform to elevate your brand, tackle critical sustainability and ESG challenges, and showcase your thought leadership.

June

Canadian Sustainable Finance Network Conference

Date: June 5 – 6, 2025

Location: York University, Toronto, Ontario
Description: Hosted by The Schulich School of Business and the Centre of Excellence in Responsible Business at York University, this annual conference invites academics and financial experts to present original research on sustainable finance, providing a platform to explore the latest advancements and innovations in the field. 

Ten Years of Truth, a Lifetime of Action: Part One – Prioritizing Indigenous Justice with Action and Accountability as Non-Indigenous Settler Peoples

Date: June 10, 2025, from 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM EDT

Location: Online
Description: The first session in a two-part webinar series by the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI), this discussion examines the responsibilities of honouring truth, fostering allyship, and advancing meaningful change.

Building Lasting Change

Date: June 18 – 20, 2025

Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
Description: Join experts, policymakers, and innovators to discuss key topics including reducing environmental impact and advancing green building practices.

WBENC 2025 National Conference: Accelerate

Date: June 23 – 26, 2025

Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Description: Organized by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council, this year’s event will explore the theme “Accelerate,” highlighting strategies for breaking barriers and driving business growth with purpose.

2025 NEXUS Global Summit

Date: June 26 – 28, 2025

Location: New York City, New York
Description: This summit brings together next-generation philanthropists, impact investors, and social innovators to address global challenges such as climate change, social justice, and mental health.

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Impact Inspiration & Initiatives

Purpose: A Wellbeing Economies Film – Review & Key Takeaways

What if the economy wasn’t measured by endless growth but by the wellbeing of people and the planet? The documentary Purpose explores this alternative — and how we could achieve it.

Produced by Omnipolis Media in collaboration with Florida Film, Purpose premiered at the Wellbeing Economy Forum in Iceland on June 11, 2024. Since then, it has been screened globally, including a virtual event on February 26, 2025, where the Sparx team joined like-minded changemakers, social purpose leaders, and advocates. The screening concluded with a dynamic Q&A with Director Martin Oetting.

Keep scrolling for our key takeaways, including how the current economic system may be working against us, the challenges of integrating wellbeing approaches into policymaking, and how we can help drive meaningful change.  

Tackling the Central Question

Purpose contributes to ongoing conversations about impact investing and economic reform by asking one key question: “What is the purpose of the economy?” 

To explore this, Martin follows two individuals: Katherine Trebeck, who initiated the Wellbeing Economy Governments (WEGo), and Lorenzo Fioramonti, who helped establish the alliance then won a parliamentary seat in Italy to drive change from the inside. Sparx has had the pleasure of learning from and collaborating with Lorenzo in The Wellbeing Economy issue of Make The World Better Magazine, with co-collaborator Dr. Victoria Hurth. 

As everyday citizens continue to face growing threats to their finances, including US/Canada tariffs, this film comes at an opportune time to present an alternative to the way our economy serves us.

Redefining the Role of the Economy

Our current economic system is driven by the traditional GDP model, where financial growth is often used as the primary metric for success. This model fosters the narrative that increased wealth and productivity are synonymous with a “better life” but fails to place value on important aspects like mental health, personal fulfillment, and the sustainability of the planet. As Lorenzo argues, if we continue tirelessly serving the economy to increase GDP, it ultimately undermines overall wellbeing. In his words, “The economy is manmade. We can make it, unmake it, make it again,” but we can’t do that change to people or the planet.

Developed 30 years ago as an alternative to GDP, the Genuine Progress Indicator (GPI) focuses on the quality of progress, not just the quantity. For example, it adjusts for things like environmental degradation and unpaid labour. But, due to factors such as political resistance and limited awareness, it has yet to replace GDP as the primary economic measure. 

Pushing for Change at the Highest Level

Katherine and Lorenzo are working to create wellbeing economies that prioritize social connections, environmental sustainability, and long-term prosperity over financial gains. Through their international alliance, Wellbeing Economy Alliance (WEAll) and its involvement in the creation of the Wellbeing Economy Governments (WEGo), they aim to bring wellbeing approaches into policymaking and create an alternative to the G7 Summit. However, they must navigate a complex governmental landscape to do so. 

It’s no surprise that policymakers tend to favour traditional growth metrics like GDP. For decades, it’s offered a clear-cut way to compare “success” across countries and served as a tool to achieve electoral goals, so the idea of transitioning to a more multifaceted wellbeing approach is met with significant resistance.

Katherine and Lorenzo’s journey highlights the hurdles associated with pushing for change at the highest level. But despite these challenges, the movement continues to gain momentum. A pivotal moment in Purpose occurs when Nicola Sturgeon, former First Minister of Scotland, delivered her TED Talk in 2019, titled “Why governments should prioritize well-being.” This talk, which received a standing ovation, helped bring the WEGo mission to a global audience. 

Key Takeaways

Through global examples and leadership, Purpose demonstrates that change is possible. Here are some of our key takeaways:

  • Costa Rica is making significant strides toward a wellbeing economy by prioritizing social wellbeing over GDP growth. Former President Carlos Andrés Alvarado Quesada is a strong advocate, mentioning the term “wellbeing” 14 times during his speech on May 8, 2022, as noted in Purpose. These are not just small steps — they’re leading to meaningful change.
  • Systemic change starts with education. While serving as Minister for Education, Universities, and Research in Italy, Lorenzo implemented sustainability and wellbeing in the national education curriculum. Despite facing internal resistance, his ideas sparked global conversations about reshaping education to empower future generations. This education can happen both inside and outside the classroom, through resources like Beyond Profit: Purpose-Driven Leadership for a Wellbeing Economy, co-authored by Lorenzo and discussed here, as well as Make The World Better Magazine.
  • Collaboration among nations is needed for meaningful change. The Wellbeing Economy Governments show how impactful collective action can be when pushing for change. Countries at the forefront of the wellbeing movement, like Iceland, Scotland, and New Zealand, are coming together to share resources, knowledge, and expertise, setting important international standards that can inspire others and drive progress. 

Despite the challenges and roadblocks, Katherine and Lorenzo remain steadfast in their mission. They continue to redefine how an economy can serve us, instead of the other way around, and shift the perception of what a “better life” means — one that’s not defined by GDP growth alone.


We all have a role to play in this movement. By supporting wellbeing initiatives, attending purpose-driven events, and advocating for policies that focus on the health of people and our planet, we can help build the economy we need. As Katherine puts it, we must create a system that allows “our planet to survive and for people to thrive in the 21st century.”

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Events Impact Inspiration & Initiatives

30+ Purpose-Driven Events to Attend in January – March, 2025

With a new year filled with swirling uncertainties, purpose-driven events can offer the perfect opportunity to spark meaningful change and foster connection across a wide range of causes, including sustainability, diversity and inclusion, climate action, finding your social purpose, and more. 

We’ve tracked down 30+ learning, collaboration, and networking opportunities to kick off the year, both online and in-person, in Canada and globally, so you can amplify good.

Keep scrolling to learn all about the purpose-driven events happening this January, February, and March.

January

Master Recycler Vancouver Annual Conference

Date: January 19, 2025, from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM PST

Location: Online

Description: Organized by the Society Promoting Environmental Conservation (SPEC) and Master Recycler volunteers, this event brings together experts, industry leaders, and community members to share strategies for reducing plastic pollution.

Building Your Social Purpose Business – Session 3: Crafting Your Unique Social Purpose Statement

Date: January 21, 2025, from 8:00 AM – 9:15 PM PST

Location: Online

Description: This complimentary five-session educational series is presented by the BC Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the Canadian Purpose Economy Project (CPEP), and supported by Coast Capital. Register for session 3 to unlock practical insights and tools to help you create a powerful social purpose statement and narrative for your business.  

20th Global Conference on Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Sustainability (GCEIS)

Date: January 24 – 26, 2025

Location: Vancouver, British Columbia

Description: At this international conference, learn about merging business innovation with environmental sustainability, explore eco-investment trends, and be inspired to lead the way to a more sustainable future.

Cleantech Forum North America

Date: January 27 – 29, 2025

Location: San Diego, California

Description: Ready for three days of high-quality meetings and deal-making? This event connects investors, corporate executives, and innovators to fuel business growth, explore climate solutions, and make an impact.


The 2025 IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism Summit

Date: January 27 – 29, 2025

Location: Victoria Conference Centre, Victoria, British Columbia

Description: Explore sustainable solutions for global travel and tourism alongside destination marketing organizations (DMOs), tourism operators, government, Indigenous leaders, and academia at this annual global summit.

Living Wage Deep Dive Series – Session 3: Driving Progress: Multi-Stakeholder Engagement for Living Wage

Date: January 28, 2025, at 3:00 AM PST 

Location: Online

Description: Did you know roughly one third of all workers are estimated to earn less than they need to afford a decent standard of living? Explore how businesses can collaborate with stakeholders to advance the living wage agenda.

Breaking Barriers: Leadership Diversity Forum

Date: January 29, 2025, from 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM EST

Location: Metro Toronto Reference Library, Toronto, Ontario

Description: Learn how to lead the way in workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and meet 50 – 30 Challenge targets with actionable insights, meaningful connections, and innovative strategies at this full-day forum. 

Sustainability as a Sales Tool 

Date: January 30, 2025, from 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM GMT

Location: Online
Description: This workshop explores how the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals can positively impact the planet while also attracting and retaining customers.

Canadian Purpose Economy Project: Purpose Fireside Chat with David Redfern

Date: January 30, 2025, from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM EST

Location: Quinn + Partners, Toronto, Ontario

Description: Hear from David Redfern, CEO of Lafarge Eastern Canada and Co-author of A Call to Purpose, and Allyson Hewitt, CPEP Purpose Champion, as they explore topics like purpose in business and championing positive change. 

JEDDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, Decolonization, and Inclusion) Seminar: Identity, Diversity, & Inclusion

Date: January 31, 2025, from 1:00 AM – 2:30 PM PST

Location: UBC Sauder School of Business, Vancouver, British Columbia & Online

Description: Hear key insights from Sonia Kang, Associate Professor of Organizational Behaviour and Human Resources at the Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto, about how language influences feelings of sincerity and belonging in organizations.

February

Diversity in Sustainability’s Winter 2025 Toronto Meetup

Date: February 5, 2025, from 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM EST

Location: Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto, Ontario

Description: Celebrate Black History Month with a visit to “The Culture: Hip Hop & Contemporary Art in the 21st Century” exhibition, followed by dinner and drinks near Kensington Market—a perfect mix of art, culture, and community connection!

UN Global Compact Network Canada Information Session

Date: February 5, 2025, at 10:00 AM PST

Location: Online

Description: Join this session to learn how to become part of the UN Global Compact and explore its initiatives, programs, and events.

GreenBiz 25

Date: February 10 – 12, 2025

Location: JW Marriott Desert Ridge, Phoenix, Arizona

Description: Connect with other sustainable business leaders, gain essential skills to overcome challenges, explore the latest in decarbonization, strategic communications, supply chains, and more, at this annual event. 

Prairie Bioeconomy Guild: Natural Products Canada

Date: February 12, 2025, from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM MST

Location: Brewsters Unity Square, Edmonton, Alberta

Description: Exploring the topic, “Supporting The Demand For Cleaner, Greener, Healthier Solutions,” early-stage Canadian founders can gain access to advice, capital, and connections they need to meet their full commercial potential.

Advancing Equity and Inclusion in the Financial Sector Workshop

Date: February 18, 2025, at 8:00 AM PST  

Location: Online

Description: In partnership with the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI), UN Global Compact Network Canada hosts this online session to help organizations navigate and overcome common DEI challenges, specifically in the financial sector.

Purpose Connections: Capital & Purpose

Date: February 20, 2025, from9:00 AM – 10:00 AM PST  

Location: Online

Description: This free session, organized by Sparx Publishing Group and Tessa Vanderkop (Purpose Advisor, Trainer, and Community Builder), will explore the theme Capital & Purpose with experts Christelle François (Equity Economic Development Group), Joanne Norris (Consultant), and Adam Spence (Social Venture Connexion). 

4WARD Global Climate & Sustainability Networking Meetups Vancouver

Date: February 21, 2025, from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM PST

Location: Starbucks – 658 Homer Street, Vancouver, British Columbia

Description: At this monthly meetup, connect with 4WARD founders and climate professionals to discuss innovative solutions in the fight against climate change.

Green Integrity: Building Trust and Transparency in Sustainability

Date: February 25, 2025, from 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM EST

Location: Ottawa, Ontario

Description: Hosted and sponsored by NAV Canada, this breakfast meetup provides an opportunity for the Canadian participants of the UN Global Compact to connect and discuss topics in sustainability governance.

Zero Waste Symposium

Date: February 26, 2025, from 9:00 AM– 5:00 PM PST

Location: San Diego County Operations Center, San Diego, California

Description: Following the theme, “Back to the Future of Zero Waste: Lessons from Our Past Informing Our Path Forward,” learn the latest from industry innovators, attend expert panels, and exhibit sustainable products and services.

BLACK 2025: Bringing Legacy, Advocacy & Cultural Knowledge

Date: February 28 – March 1, 2025

Location: University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Description: Organized by New African Canadians (NAC), this summit honours Black History Month and the International Decade for People of African Descent in Canada, and celebrates the rich history, contributions, and future aspirations of Black Canadians.

March

BC Climate Resilience Summit 2025

Date: March 3 – 4, 2025

Location: UBC Robson Square, Vancouver, British Columbia

Description: This inaugural event provides a space for diverse stakeholders to explore topics in climate risk management, low carbon resilience, and disaster risk reduction.

Building Your Social Purpose Business – Session 4: Bringing Social Purpose to the Heart of Your Business

Date: March 4, 2025, from 8:00 AM – 9:15 PM PST

Location: Online

Description: Session 4 of this complimentary five-session educational series is presented by the BC Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the Canadian Purpose Economy Project (CPEP), and supported by Coast Capital. Register now to learn how purpose can become a driver for employee engagement and innovation.

Sustainability LIVE: Net Zero

Date: March 5 – 6, 2025

Location: QEII Centre, London, UK

Description: Exploring the theme “The Route To A Carbon Neutral World,” this conference provides executives with a platform to share insights, engage in discussions, and explore strategies to drive sustainability and achieve net zero targets.


Sustainability Leaders Summit

Date: March 5 – 6, 2025

Location: Pullman Albert Park, Melbourne, Australia

Description: This summit will equip leaders with the tools they need to gain a competitive advantage and provide actionable insights to navigate critical climate and environmental challenges.

RCA Presents: Explore Circularity Day 2025

Date: March 10, 2025 from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM MST

Location: NAIT, Edmonton, Alberta

Description: Should there be a place for waste-to-energy in the circular economy? This full-day event will tackle this, along with other compelling topics. Enjoy an engaging discussion that will help you explore your own stance and inform your decisions moving forward. 

Alberta Circular Plastics Day

Date: March 11, 2025

Location: NAIT, Edmonton, Alberta

Description: During this one-day event, discuss advancements and collaborative efforts in plastics circularity with stakeholders from various sectors including government, academia, and industry.

JEDDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, Decolonization, and Inclusion) Seminar: Antiracist by Design

Date: March 14, 2025, from 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM PST

Location: UBC Sauder School of Business, Vancouver, British Columbia & Online

Description: Hear from Crystal C. Hall, Associate Professor at the Evans School of Public Policy & Governance and Adjunct Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of Washington, to learn how to create more diverse and inclusive workplaces.

4WARD Global Climate & Sustainability Networking Meetups Vancouver

Date:  March 21, from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM PST

Location: Starbucks – 658 Homer Street, Vancouver, British Columbia

Description: At this monthly meetup, connect with 4WARD founders and climate professionals to discuss innovative solutions in the fight against climate change.

Sustainability Conference 2025

Date: March 23 – 25, 2025

Location: Vancouver Convention Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia

Description: This conference provides an opportunity for attendees to connect with industry peers, innovators, and changemakers working toward impactful climate and sustainability solutions.

Just Economy Conference

Date: March 26 – 27, 2025

Location: Washington Hilton, Washington, DC

Description: Ready to ask the hard questions to chart out a better future? This conference explores ideas and uncovers opportunities to help all Americans build wealth and live well.

Carbon Literacy Training For Professionals

Date: March 27, 2025

Location: Online

Description: Aimed at the professional services industries, this course will put you one step closer to becoming “carbon literate” and introduces the basics of climate science so you feel empowered to take action. 

JEDDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, Decolonization, and Inclusion) Seminar: Stigma at Work

Date:  March 28, 2025, from 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM PST

Location: Online

Description: Hear from Brent Lyons, Associate Professor and York Research Chair in Stigmatization & Social Identity at York University, about the impact of stigma in the workplace.

Zero Waste Forum

Date:  March 30 – April 2, 2025

Location: Anne Kolb Nature Center, Hollywood, Florida

Description: Hosted by Race to Zero Waste, in partnership with Broward Clean Air, Debris Free Oceans, and Zero Waste USA, this event explores the topic of “Protecting People, Wetlands, and The Economy.”

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Make The World Better Magazine

Water First: Collaborating on Local Water Challenges

Across Canada, many Indigenous communities are disproportionately affected by complex and varied issues that impact their clean water supply. Through education, training, and meaningful collaboration, we can create a ripple effect of safety and sustainability that helps solve these issues.

We spoke with Brenda Lapell, Digital Communications Manager at Water First Education and Training, about how this non-profit organization is collaborating with Indigenous communities in Canada to address local clean water challenges.

What was the “spark” that inspired your founders to start your organization?

In 2009, we began operating as Tin Roof Global to bring drinking water to rural schools in Uganda. But after a few years of operation, we realized that there were very few organizations addressing clean water challenges here at home. 

In 2012, we started collaborating with First Nations in Canada. The projects were small, but they were successful. In 2016, we changed our name to Water First Education and Training, and our mandate to work exclusively with Indigenous communities.

What do you consider to be your biggest success? Can you share any stories of the impact your work has had that have surprised you?

Our biggest successes are definitely the interns and participants of our programs who have gone on to great careers in or near their home communities or as they continue their education in the water field. Water First interns and alumni will have decades-long careers and opportunities ahead of them, which is such a testament to their hard work and dedication. Many program participants and interns also stay close to the Water First community to become mentors and active alumni, providing a really special way to stay connected — some people even end up coming back to work with Water First!

How can addressing local water challenges help make the world better?

The water challenges that Indigenous communities face are complex and varied and are not new. From climate change to aging infrastructure, Indigenous communities are also disproportionately affected by these challenges. Across Canada, 14% of First Nations are currently living under a water advisory. Many Indigenous communities in Canada have identified the need for more local, qualified personnel to support solving water issues independently and for the long term. Working with and supporting Indigenous communities in determining the solutions and training that fit their communities best leads to greater control over their own land and resource use. This helps to create a ripple effect of safety and sustainability that is far-reaching. 

What are some of the challenges you typically face in carrying out your purpose?

Water First often works with Indigenous communities in remote areas and inclement weather, so when we’re training in the field, there are lots of opportunities for problem-solving! From equipment malfunctions to severe weather events, our teams have to be flexible and smart to keep everybody safe and projects on track.

A challenge that we face, and embrace, as an organization is to always continue our cultural learning. We are a team of Indigenous and non-Indigenous employees, and in our work, we strive to build lasting, trusting relationships with partner communities. So while we offer technical training, our team also seeks out our own learning opportunities as well as reciprocal learning opportunities from our partners. We’ve recently taken part in Inuit cultural learning, a Two-Spirit workshop, and a Red Dress Day sharing circle. And we have land-based learning opportunities scheduled for this fall.

We also recently launched a brand-new internship program that focuses on environmental water management and technical training and are currently working toward accreditation to certify participants that complete the training. This has been a long process and a learning experience for us all, but the benefits to our participants will be worth it.

Are there any upcoming initiatives or projects you’d like to share?

It has been another year of growth. Together with community partners, we have expanded programming in western Canada and our programming with school-aged children. 

In March 2024, we began a Drinking Water Internship with Interlake Reserves Tribal Council in Manitoba. Interns from seven communities are taking part in a 15-month program to gain technical skills and training. This will lead to valuable water operator certifications and help trainees begin their careers in the water field. This internship is significant as it marks the first for us outside of Ontario. 

The next initiative we’re excited about is the launch of our very first Environmental Water Internship. This internship was launched in collaboration with Mamaweswen, The North Shore Tribal Council. It focuses on skills training and certification in Water Quality, Environmental Data, and Fish Conservation. We feel a great deal of privilege to be able to build this program with such a fantastic community partner and know that it will serve as the blueprint for additional internships and the expansion of the program.

What can people do to help support your mission?

Get to know the issues surrounding water safety and sovereignty in Indigenous communities, get to know Water First, and of course, we’re a nonprofit, so donations matter. To keep up with our news and all the fantastic collaborations we’re involved in, sign up for our quarterly newsletter! And don’t forget to follow us on social media — and help spread the word!

This story was featured in the Make The World Better Magazine:

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Make The World Better Magazine

SHARC Energy: Harnessing the Power of Wastewater

Conserving freshwater is critically important for people and planet. With innovative sustainable technologies that provide access to a forgotten renewable resource, not only can we save water, we can reduce harmful emissions and energy consumption. 

We spoke with Hanspaul Pannu, CFO and COO at SHARC Energy, about how this organization is contributing to a more sustainable future by developing and installing innovative wastewater energy systems.

What was the “spark” that inspired your founders to start your organization?

The inspiration behind SHARC Energy stemmed from recognizing the untapped potential of wastewater. Our founders Lynn Mueller and Daryle Anderson, both seasoned professionals in geothermal heat pump marketing and mechanical contracting, envisioned harnessing this resource for wastewater energy transfer (WET). Their goal was to develop innovative solutions that could significantly reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a more sustainable future​​​​.

What do you consider to be your biggest success? Can you share any stories of the impact your work has had that have surprised you?

One of our biggest successes is the adoption and effectiveness of our SHARC and PIRANHA WET systems. These systems have been implemented in over 30 installations worldwide, demonstrating substantial energy savings and environmental benefits from freshwater savings and carbon emissions reductions. 

A notable success story is the PIRANHA system’s performance during the EPRI Incubatenergy Labs 2020 Pilot Project, where it was validated by several large US energy utilities. Additionally, the integration of our WET systems in four countries on three continents showcases the technology’s reliability and applicability in diverse settings​​.

How can using wastewater as an energy source help make the world better?

Using wastewater as an energy source or sink offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it transfers thermal energy with wastewater, reducing the usage of gas or electricity for heating and cooling, which makes it extremely energy efficient. It also lowers greenhouse gas emissions by utilizing a renewable and consistent energy source, creating a positive environmental impact.

Additionally, wastewater energy transfer systems enhance energy resilience by providing access to a forgotten renewable resource​​. And these systems help save freshwater by reducing the demand on cooling towers, which are significant water consumers, contributing in this way to conservation.

What are some of the challenges you typically face in carrying out your purpose?

We face several challenges, including resistance to change, as engineers and building owners can be hesitant to adopt new technologies, preferring tried-and-tested methods. Regulatory and compliance issues are other challenges we face. Ensuring that WET systems meet building codes, safety standards, and other regulations can be complex. And awareness and education can also be challenging. Many potential customers are unaware of the benefits and capabilities of WET systems, which require education and demonstrations to overcome​​​​.

Are there any upcoming initiatives or projects you’d like to share?

We continue to expand our reach with new installations and partnerships. We are actively working on integrating our systems into larger district energy networks, or Thermal Energy Networks (TENs), and exploring new opportunities in adjacent markets to new build residential.

The leləm̓ project employs our Wastewater Energy Transfer (WET) system to meet the heating and cooling needs of the community. The centralized energy facility uses a low-carbon wastewater energy transfer system to meet 80% of the thermal energy needs of the community and provides significant carbon savings, energy efficiency, and freshwater savings compared to traditional systems.

What can people do to help support your mission?

Individuals and organizations can support SHARC Energy’s mission in a few key ways. They can adopt sustainable technologies and consider implementing SHARC and PIRANHA systems in their buildings to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. They can also spread awareness by educating others about the benefits of WET and promoting its adoption within their communities and industries. 

Engineers and architects getting official professional development hours or continuing education can get training on how to incorporate the power of wastewater into their sustainable building projects with us at sharcenergy.com/training. 

Another way to support our mission is by advocating for and supporting policies and regulations that incentivize the adoption of WET systems, including sewer access for thermal energy transfer for both private and public entities.

We’re also a public company (CSE:SHRC), so potential investors interested in supporting us and a clean energy future can visit our investor page.And lastly, we are happy to invite individuals and organizations to partner with SHARC Energy on new projects and research initiatives to further advance our technology and its applications.

This story was featured in the Make The World Better Magazine:

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Make The World Better Magazine

RainStick Shower

Climate change has revealed that water is not as abundant a resource as we once believed. As droughts and fires become increasingly common and utility bills skyrocket, engaging in water conservation on an individual level has taken on new urgency.

We spoke with Alisha McFetridge, Co-Founder of RainStick Shower, about how this organization is creating a water-saving solution for Canadian homes through innovative and sustainable technology.

What was the “spark” that inspired you to start your organization?

The inspiration for RainStick Shower began in the Okanagan Valley, Canada’s only desert region. Both Sean McFetridge, Co-Founder and acting CEO, and I grew up in this arid environment, where the importance of water conservation was deeply ingrained. Sean’s background in resource management, from his time as a lifeguard to his role as a national energy manager at Home Depot, coupled with my tech expertise and passion for sustainability from my international travels, fuelled our mission to create a water-saving solution for the home.

What do you consider to be your biggest success? Can you share any stories of the impact your work has had that have surprised you?

Our biggest success is the creation of the RainStick Shower, which has won multiple innovation awards, including TIME Magazine’s list of Best Inventions of 2023, Best of CES 2022 Innovations Award Honouree, and the Gold Sustainable Standout Award at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show. One customer reported saving over 40,000 litres of water and 2,192 kilowatt-hours in their first year. 

Depending on your location you can save as much as US$1,100 annually thanks to RainStick, based on a two-person household. This not only highlights the financial benefits but also demonstrates the significant reduction in water and energy usage that RainStick contributes to environmental conservation.

How can water conservation help make the world better?

Conservation is crucial in addressing the global water crisis. By reducing water usage, we can mitigate the effects of droughts, ensure sustainable water supplies for future generations, and decrease the energy required for water heating and treatment. 

In Canada, where utility bills are rising and climate change is leading to more frequent droughts and fires, products like RainStick can play a pivotal role in making homes more resilient and environmentally friendly. Notably, the Residential End Uses of Water study shows minimal change in showering patterns, with the average duration in Canada holding steady at 7.8 minutes per shower and the flow rate decreasing by just 0.1 gallons per minute from 1999 to 2016. This highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions like RainStick to drive meaningful change.

What are some of the challenges you typically face in carrying out your purpose?

One of the primary challenges we face is the initial resistance to adopting new technology. Helping homeowners, builders, interior designers, and architects understand the long-term benefits of water-saving devices and overcoming the perception that water is an abundant resource are ongoing efforts. Additionally, educating our market that RainStick is an “extremely hygienic” shower appliance due to our robust three-stage cleaning process is crucial. 

Are there any upcoming initiatives or projects you’d like to share?

We are excited to announce a new model of the RainStick Shower designed based on the feedback we received from some of the top interior designers in North America. It is set to be officially launched in early 2025 but is available for pre-order now. This model will be more cost-effective and easier to integrate into residential, commercial, and recreational homes, allowing for wider adoption in sustainable building projects. You can also check out our latest BC-located off-grid installation in a property tour by Kerry Tarnow, which is available for viewing online.

What can people do to help support your mission?

Individuals can support our mission by choosing water-efficient products like RainStick Shower and advocating for water conservation in their communities. Educating oneself about the importance of water conservation and implementing small changes, such as fixing leaks and using water-saving appliances, can collectively make a significant impact. Supporting policies and initiatives that promote sustainable water use is also crucial. As a startup, every little bit counts — so tell your friends.

This story was featured in the Make The World Better Magazine:

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Make The World Better Magazine

Pauquachin First Nation: Reconnecting Via Marine Restoration

Pauquachin First Nation has always held a strong relationship with Coles Bay, the Nation’s main shellfish harvesting beach, where community life and marine life are deeply interwoven. To turn the tide on the beach’s nearly three-decade closure, a program was created to generate holistic restoration outcomes and reclaim this important connection.

We spoke with the Pauquachin First Nation about how their marine program is reconnecting the community to life on the beach through powerful environmental stewardship and shellfish restoration.

What was the “spark” that inspired your community to start your marine program? 

Pauquachin First Nation has always taken a proactive and involved approach to environmental stewardship and management. Members from Pauquachin First Nation have always been strong advocates to our community leaders, indicating the importance of caretaking the active and cherished areas of importance within Pauquachins’ traditional territory. This territory spans from Saanich Inlet to Saturna Island and beyond, with trade networks and stopover sights all the way to the mainland of British Columbia.  

Despite the immense capacity and financial challenges associated with starting a novel marine program, in 2019, Chief Rebecca David and elected councillors created the “spark” that initiated a long-term community vision of creating an environmental stewardship department. This department was always envisioned as centring a holistic and involved community role, allowing for community members to reaccess areas in the territory where they were excluded due to the continuing effects of colonial settlement. We wanted a department where youth, Elders, knowledge holders, language speakers, and community felt safe, comfortable, and engaged with their environment. The department additionally allows Pauquachin First Nation to take an active stewardship role, leveraging our examples of local environmental management based on our cultural values to enact regional change in collaboration with local governments, non-profits, neighbours, and interested parties. 

What do you consider to be your biggest success? Can you share any stories of the impact your work has had that have surprised you? 

The first and biggest success represented by the establishment and realization of this department was the community support and integration it offered. It was a big step to create a novel workplace and a series of job opportunities uniquely woven in to bring necessary skillsets, training, and economic opportunities to our community. 

When access to traditional foods was limited due to various historical factors including urbanization, increased pollution, and watershed changes, we needed an option to generate membership employment opportunities on-reserve. Our department leverages the skills and ecological knowledge of our community, allowing them to interact with their territory while generating useful and needed data utilized by the Nation in the unyielding tidal wave of referrals, government interactions, policy commentary, and other inputs consistently requested to First Nations. These positions and roles give a major sense of pride in the community, as well as act as a social safety net for our members who can rely on each other and act as leaders to others while positively contributing to the long-term vision of the Nation. 

Our main restoration successes involve rekindling a strong relationship with Pauquachins’ main shellfish harvesting beach in Coles Bay, which traditionally was a centre point for the community where knowledge was exchanged, youth were taught, ceremonies held, and food gathered. This beach has been closed since 1997, and through that closure by the Department of Fisheries, a strong sense of isolation, fear, and disconnect occurred due to the ever-present and previously not understood pollution sources in the bay. Our members were simply told the beach was not safe and to leave this rich cultural space entirely. Hope was quickly leaving, as multiple generations of Pauquachin youth were raised without the important connection the beach represented. 

Our environmental stewardship staff and marine department have been working tirelessly for four years to change that narrative. Through both scientific and cultural management practices, Pauquachin First Nation has changed the tide, so to speak, surrounding the shellfish closure in Coles Bay.  

Initial efforts involved a detailed review of the clam populations that used to support us, identifying which populations were still healthy and which had changed in the three-decade closure. We have additionally finalized identification of the cumulative effects driving the pollution, as well as the types of pollution we are facing along the path of cultural shellfishery revitalization. Both marine and freshwater inputs are sampled all year round by stewardship staff to ensure seasonal variations in pollution are also understood.  

We additionally have been aiming to re-introduce, through both community restoration days and seasonal stewardship staff practices, traditional shellfish management methods that brought health and life to the beach before the closure. These involve long discussions on the wider environment, with Elders and knowledge holders, as well as youth events where we teach young people about the life they are connected to on the beach. Tilling, moving of stones, and re-seeding of shellfish, as well as protocol around harvesting sizes and stories are being shared much more readily now as part of this effort.  

To initiate political action, Pauquachin reviewed the policies driving this closure and combined a summary of obligations in three reports to all governmental levels in Canada, with specific recommendations to surrounding municipal, provincial, and federal governments. These recommendations centre our treaty right guaranteed under the Douglas Treaties to “fish as formally,” and are a guidebook to local partners on how to meet our needs along their own laws, as well as Pauquachins’ own traditional laws and practices. Due to the recommendations in these reports, Coles Bay is now being identified as a prime example for a novel provincial shellfish management strategy, called the “BC Healthy Shellfish Initiative,” which is expected to be initialized in 2024.

How can restoration and remediation of the Pauquachin First Nation’s traditional marine resources help make the world better?

Our restoration efforts specifically aim to centre First Nations’ harvesting and Treaty Rights while weaving together necessary scientific practices alongside cultural practices to generate holistic restoration outcomes. This model, which we are aiming to document and present to other Nations and the Canadian government, has the potential to bridge political inequities present in shellfish management policy with reconciliatory action for the benefit of the environment. Other Nations, as well as crown governments looking to meet reconciliatory mandates and goals, can utilize this example from both a scientific and management perspective to revitalize shellfish management across Canada. 

For Nations that have been disenfranchised through current shellfish management systems, losing culture, ecological integrity, and harvesting areas, our work represents a groundbreaking management model that could allow them to additionally regain beach access. We hope our work is able to be highlighted and reviewed at both the provincial and federal scales for all Nations currently impacted. 

What are some of the challenges you typically face in carrying out your purpose? 

There are many challenges related to shellfish management and beach restoration work that have accumulated over decades of ineffective policy, with specific gaps related to First Nations’ harvesting rights and lack of restoration mandates by the Crown at all levels. Multijurisdictional management of shellfish is one of the largest challenges, as it seems like each section of government only holds a handful of pieces. Ultimately, however, it lands with all crown governments to uphold their obligations to the Douglas Treaties of which they are signatories, and we feel hope in that they are now aiming to recognize and meet those obligations. 

Are there any upcoming initiatives or projects you’d like to share? 

We are aiming to continue restoration work within Coles Bay, with a multitude of infrastructure and shoreline improvements to alleviate pressure on the shellfish populations present there. We are additionally aiming to fund and host a gathering, currently unconfirmed, to bring together both First Nations and surrounding interested municipal parties to celebrate the beach, restore and create novel clam sites together, and discuss the many challenges that lay ahead in our collaborations. 

What can people do to help support your mission? 

Pauquachin First Nation is always open to discussing collaborations and opportunities to assist in moving the work forward and will be aiming to solicit volunteers to work alongside us on restoration days on the beach. We are additionally able to receive donations, for both in-kind and monetary contributions for this work, should that be available. All information requests and discussions related to PFN’s shellfish restoration work can be sent to [email protected].

Authors’ Note: Authorship is labelled as “Pauquachin First Nation” in alignment with our community’s values of collective representation and acknowledgement of the collaborative nature of our work.

This story was featured in the Make The World Better Magazine:

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Make The World Better Magazine

Ocean Ambassadors Canada: Connecting Youth With the Ocean

Passion is a powerful motivator for positive change. Yet, many Canadians, especially youth who face barriers, feel disconnected from marine environments, despite how integral water is to all of our lives. With the right education and experience, however, we can ignite a love for our waterways that leads to far-reaching impact.

We spoke with Alison Wood, Executive Director of Ocean Ambassadors Canada, about how this organization is inspiring meaningful action by connecting disadvantaged youth with the ocean.

What was the “spark” that inspired you to start your organization?

My co-founder Jennifer Wesanko and I noticed that people are increasingly disconnected from nature. Young people are spending hours each day on their electronic devices, are over-programmed after school and on weekends, and are not permitted to play in nature without adults due to safety concerns. As a result, young people are not spending time playing in and exploring nature. We believe that unless people feel a connection to something, they will not care for it. As Jacques Cousteau said, “People protect what they love.”

Ocean Ambassadors was created as a response to this disconnect. Our mission is to connect people with nature, educate them about marine pollution and ocean health, and inspire them to take meaningful action. 

What do you consider to be your biggest success? Can you share any stories of the impact your work has had that have surprised you?

Since our founding in 2017, we have connected roughly 30,000 young people with the ocean through our beach programs. Participants are encouraged to continue advocating for our oceans as part of a lifelong passion to “protect what they love,” and many go on to work on waste reduction projects at their schools after learning about the threats to marine sustainability. Helping inspire thousands of young people to love and care for the marine environment is an ongoing success, the results of which continue to amplify in ways we cannot fully account for. 

The other work we do as an ocean-focused charity is through our zero-waste initiatives. Since beginning our zero-waste work in 2018, we have worked with close to 500 small businesses to decrease their waste output through our zero-waste coaching programs, which has led to an ongoing partnership with Metro Vancouver. Increasingly, our work is focused on waste reduction at festivals, and in May 2024, we launched our first-ever Zero Waste Festival pilot at Hyack International Parade and Festival, dramatically reducing single-use item waste at the event. 

We speak to thousands of people every year at local festivals, and one thing that has been surprising and impactful is how many people are enthusiastic about the work we are doing. While levels of popular support for a transition toward a circular and low-waste economy are not currently being reflected in changes at the levels of policy and business practices, people understand the problem and want to see things change, which is incredibly hopeful.

How can protecting oceans and waterways help make the world better?

An expression heard from Indigenous activists and land defenders, “water is life.” Similarly, the oceanographer and marine biologist Dr. Sylvia Earle, an inspiration for us at Ocean Ambassadors Canada, gave a lecture titled, “No Water, No Life. No Blue, No Green.” That water is essential to — and the cradle of — life on Earth is not a surprising point, but the more we consider this reality, the deeper its implications become.

The health of oceans and waterways worldwide is suffering as a consequence of global heating and acidification, industrial runoff, global marine shipping, commercial overfishing, and plastic pollution. If we take seriously that there is a direct connection between water and life, it means that when oceans and waterways are harmed, it is humans who are ultimately harmed (though not equally), along with all life forms with whom we share this planet. But when we work to protect and care for oceans and waterways, we are working to safeguard life now and for future generations.

We believe the most effective way to inspire positive action is through education and advocacy and by giving people opportunities to experience the ocean for themselves and explore what this relationship means to them. Our experience has been that this emotional connection often leads naturally to the desire to protect oceans and waterways from harm.

What are some of the challenges you typically face in carrying out your purpose?

Our purpose at Ocean Ambassadors Canada is to connect people directly with the ocean, nurture that connection through education, and inspire action to protect the marine environment that sustains us. As for connecting people with the ocean, the demographic we serve is primarily the urban youth of the Lower Mainland, and this comes with a number of challenges. 

We want to provide opportunities for youth, especially youth with otherwise limited access to the marine environment, to help them build lifelong relationships with the ocean, and a challenge we face is getting disadvantaged youth into our programs. Socioeconomic barriers to accessing our programs, and to accessing the natural environment more broadly, mean that we have to work harder to ensure historically underprivileged youth — children of new immigrants, urban Indigenous youth, youth from working-class backgrounds — are included in our programs. Initiatives addressing this inequity mean extra funding, and as a small charity, funding from outside our normal program revenues is what we require to ensure more equitable access to our youth programs.

Are there any upcoming initiatives or projects you’d like to share?

One of the areas where we see a lot of opportunity for positive change is in supporting festivals in Metro Vancouver to go zero waste. Public festivals, particularly those serving food and drinks, generate massive amounts of waste, contributing to the crisis of plastic pollution in the marine environment. We want to play a part in helping lead the necessary transition away from single-use items and toward circularity, and festivals are a great place to begin implementing and normalizing these changes. Currently, there are no policies in place to limit single-use item waste at festivals, and we aspire to provide resources and support for festivals to make the transition toward zero waste, sharing our insights with our partners at Metro Vancouver to inform potential policy measures. 

On the water, we will continue to inspire the next generation of Ocean Ambassadors through our school programs and summer camps. Connecting young people with the ocean so that they feel inspired toward advocacy is where our roots are as a charity, and this experiential approach will always be central to the work we do in protecting the marine environment.

What can people do to help support your mission?

To support our mission of addressing the crisis of marine pollution, we are asking people to reuse the items they own, refuse environmentally harmful items and products, and reduce unnecessary consumption in their lives and communities, opting for quality over quantity. Systemic changes in production and consumption globally are required to address the causes of marine pollution, and we are working to get this change underway right here in our own region, where we can connect the impacts of our own actions on the marine environment with the health of the planet and with movements for sustainability around the world.

Another way people can support our mission is to get connected with the ocean. This could be through volunteering with Ocean Ambassadors Canada to support our community initiatives and programs. It can also be through connecting with the ocean in whatever way feels most meaningful to you: watersport, activism, walking the coastline, relaxing at the beach, or learning about coastal ecology and Coast Salish relationships with these waters. The ocean can help heal our disconnection and remind us what it means to be alive on Earth. Find your own way to feel that power and let it guide you forward.

You can also support our mission by donating to our organization via our website.

Editor’s Note: Thank you to Max Abu-Laban, Zero Waste Coordinator, who also contributed to this piece.

This story was featured in the Make The World Better Magazine: