Canada’s forest industry is tapping innovation with the aim of growing the nation’s GDP while slashing carbon emissions. Federal government funding and policy support for the innovation drive has been strong, say industry executives and innovation leaders. But more effort is needed to improve procurement programs and regulations, especially for biochemicals and biomaterials.
Topic: clean technology
New national climate institute hunts for a win-win-win on Canada’s low-carbon future
The federal government has committed $20 million to a new climate change institute of more than 60 experts from across the country. The Canadian Institute for Climate Choices will independently assess Ottawa’s climate policies and help develop a road map to Canada’s low-carbon economy
Edmonton and Calgary launch “Alberta Innovation Corridor” to grow startups
Alberta’s two largest cities are teaming up to multiply their tech startups. Through the new innovation corridor, they will coordinate programs and services, collaborate on marketing and policy recommendations, and focus on securing early-stage funding for startups.
Clean technology initiative aims to turn oil sands bitumen into high-tech carbon fibre
Alberta Innovates has launched a $15-million international competition to capitalize on the global carbon fibre market, which is projected to reach US$7.8 billion by 2024. Eventually, more than 100,000 barrels of bitumen could be used daily to produce carbon fibre.
Alberta and Saskatchewan partner on study of commercial-scale CO2 capture and storage for the cement industry
Alberta and Saskatchewan partner on a feasibility study of commercial-scale carbon capture and storage at a cement plant — a North American first for the cement industry.
Emissions Reduction Alberta launches $50-million program for innovative natural gas projects
The program supports clean technology projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve the industry’s competitiveness.
B.C. policy on energy-efficient buildings spurs innovative technologies and new jobs
Provincial policy in B.C. is driving higher energy efficiency in new buildings and reducing carbon emissions, while creating a $3.3-billion local market for “green” building products and up to 1,700 new jobs.
To maintain its “carbontech” leadership, Canada needs a price on carbon and focused strategies, say experts
Canada needs supportive government strategies and policies to maintain its global leadership in “carbontech” innovation: international conference
Patent Collective to give Canadian cleantech firms “freedom to operate”
Canada’s new Patent Collective will reduce the risks of patent infringement claims and other intellectual property issues for SMEs.
NRC to launch new innovation challenge focused on clean fuels
Oil sands companies expected to play significant role in assessing and deploying new low-carbon technologies.