The Canadian environmental and cleantech sector is experiencing vibrant and rapid growth, particularly in its pursuit of sustainable solutions aimed at promoting environmental health and a greener future. Focusing on areas such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, water and waste management, and smart grid innovations, this sector employs cutting-edge research and development to address critical environmental issues while enhancing overall quality of life.
According to Natural Resources Canada, as of 2022, there were 2,427 companies operating within Canada's cleantech landscape. This sector plays a significant role in the country's economy, contributing approximately C$58 billion, which represents 2.9% of Canada’s gross domestic product (GDP) in 2021.
In September 2024, the Canadian Sustainable Cities Trade and Investment Mission took place in Poland and Ukraine, where eleven Canadian sustainable technology companies presented innovative solutions aimed at fostering sustainable urban development. These presentations occurred in Warsaw and Rzeszów as part of a collaborative vision to create environmentally responsible cities for both current and future generations.
Michelle Hohn, the President of Akashic Communications Corp and a participant in the mission, shared her observations during an informative event focused on transformative smart solutions. While her background lies in sustainability strategy within the mining industry, Hohn noted parallels between urban centres and mining sites, remarking how both operate as complex infrastructures that face similar challenges such as enhancing safety, security, operational efficiency, and environmental stewardship.
The mission showcased various companies offering sustainable solutions that could be adapted for mining operations. For instance, CORE Renewable Energy focuses on energy autonomy, transforming energy consumers into producers through smart, scaleable microgrids, particularly in remote locations. Invinity Energy Systems provides vanadium flow batteries capable of lasting 25 years, thereby significantly reducing fire hazards compared to lithium batteries, while enhancing grid stability.
Further innovations were presented by Lowfoot, which utilises energy-efficient software to monitor equipment, thereby driving down energy costs and extending equipment lifespan by detecting potential issues early. Additionally, SUM Ltd specialises in thermal insulation technology that prevents heat loss in industrial applications, which is particularly beneficial for mining operations that rely on high-energy processes.
The mission also highlighted advancements in waste management, with RDA Technologies transforming waste into biochar for agricultural use and energy production. In the realm of safety, Teldio showcased solutions that enhance two-way radio systems with added functionalities for improved situational awareness, while Genetec Inc offers tailored security solutions designed for large-scale mining operations.
Traffic management and data solutions were similarly addressed through innovations by Viion Systems, which uses proprietary software to improve road safety on mine sites, and GeoMate Inc, which provides AI-powered mapping technology aimed at enhancing transport management systems within mining operations. Cybersecurity solutions were presented by mPowered Technology Solutions, focusing on secure data transmission to mitigate potential threats.
The Sustainable Cities Trade and Investment Mission to Poland and Ukraine, organised by the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service in collaboration with various local agencies, underscores Canada's role in spearheading sustainable cleantech initiatives. The insights gained during this mission suggest that mining companies can leverage advancements in the cleantech sector to address pressing challenges related to safety, productivity, and environmental sustainability.
In conclusion, the interplay between Canadian cleantech innovations and the mining sector represents a compelling opportunity for both fields to achieve their sustainability and operational goals more efficiently and responsively.
Source: Noah Wire Services