ECO IMPACT 2024:
Conference Agenda
Dive into environmental innovation at ECO Canada’s IMPACT 2024 Event. Engage with industry leaders, explore cutting-edge topics, and collaborate on sustainable solutions.
Welcome Remarks, Housekeeping, Land Acknowledgement
- Date: February 8th 2024
- Time: 8:00 am – 8:30 am
Join us in the quest for a sustainable future as leaders converge to bridge perspectives and ignite change at the opening plenary of IMPACT 2024. Watch while our CEO, Indigenous leaders, and Government officials come together to chart a path towards sustainability and unite diverse perspectives for a better future.
Click here to view this series.
Enhancing Sustainability, Compliance, and Accountability
- Date: February 8th 2024
- Time: 10:00 am – 11:00 am
As the global spotlight on environmental responsibility intensifies, organizations are challenged to adapt and excel in their environmental management practices. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to navigate the evolving landscape of environmental regulations, elevate sustainability initiatives, and fortify corporate accountability.
Key Highlights:
- Engaging Stakeholders for Sustainable Impact: Learn effective strategies for engaging internal and external stakeholders to build a culture of environmental responsibility, garnering support for sustainability initiatives and fostering a sense of shared accountability
- Innovation in Data Collection and Analysis: Explore technological advancements and data-driven solutions that revolutionize the way environmental data is collected, analyzed, and leveraged to drive actionable insights for sustainability improvements
- Integrated Reporting for Accountability: Discover the power of integrated reporting in communicating environmental performance, fostering transparency, and enhancing stakeholder trust.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be at the forefront of innovation in environmental management and accountability.
Click here to view this series.
Harnessing AI’s Power for Environmental Advancement in Canada
- Date: February 8th 2024
- Time: 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Key Highlights:
- Climate Modeling and Predictive Analytics: Witness how AI is being harnessed to improve climate modeling, predict natural disasters, and enhance disaster response efforts.
- Sustainable Resource Management: Learn how AI is optimizing resource usage, promoting sustainable practices, and contributing to a greener economy in Canada.
- Waste Reduction and Circular Economy: Discover innovative AI-driven solutions that help reduce waste, promote recycling, and enable the transition towards a circular economy.
Watch as our experts delve into cutting-edge AI applications and strategies that have the potential to drive sustainable and impactful change for our environment.
- Russ Erickson
- Zoya Sodhi
- Leroy Banack (Moderator)
Moving from Strategy to Implementation:
- Date: February 8th 2024
- Time: 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Key Highlights:
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- Sustainability and Industry: Discover how industries, from manufacturing to agriculture, are incorporating clean tech practices to reduce their carbon footprint and enhance competitiveness.
- Regulatory Framework: Understand the policy landscape and how government initiatives and incentives are driving clean tech adoption.
- Job Creation and Economic Growth: Learn about the potential for cleantech to create high-quality jobs, boost economic growth, and position Canada as a clean tech powerhouse.
Join us for an engaging and informative discussion that celebrates the innovations and opportunities within the clean tech sector and provides a roadmap for how Canada can lead in clean tech innovation.
Nature-Based Solutions for Canada’s Environmental Sector:
- Date: February 8th 2024
- Time: 10:00 am – 11:00 am
As Canada faces an array of environmental challenges, from climate change impacts to biodiversity loss and resource management, there’s a growing recognition that the power of nature itself can offer innovative and sustainable solutions. This session is a comprehensive exploration of how nature can play a pivotal role in addressing and mitigating these challenges, offering new possibilities for a more sustainable future.
Key Highlights:
- Climate Variability: Canada experiences significant climate variability, with diverse ecosystems ranging from the Arctic tundra to temperate rainforests. Adapting nature-based solutions to such diverse climates and ecosystems can be complex.
- Policy and Regulatory Barriers: Examine the role of government policies and regulations in supporting and incentivizing nature-based solutions.
- Land Use Pressures: Implementing NBS may require balancing conservation efforts with economic interests, making it challenging to find suitable spaces for these solutions. Join us for solutions to these issues.
Let’s begin a deep dive into how these innovative approaches can lead to a more resilient, and harmonious relationship between Canada and its environment.
How Fearless Women Lead:
- Date: February 8th 2024
- Time: 11:15 am – 12:15 pm
Key Highlights:
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Learn how fearless women entrepreneurs are driving innovation and economic growth, launching successful startups, and contributing to Canada’s economic prosperity.
- Political Leadership: Gain insights into the journeys of women who have entered the political arena, advocating for policies that empower women and marginalized communities.
- Mentorship and Empowerment: Understand the importance of mentorship and the role of these women leaders in empowering the next generation of women to take on leadership roles.
Together, we will celebrate their triumph and chart a course for the next generation of fearless women leaders.
Sustainable Futures Unleashed:
- Date: February 8th 2024
- Time: 11:15 am – 12:15 pm
- Adam Starr
- Brenden Stephen (Moderator)
The Canadian Youth Success Strategy:
The Role We All Have to Play
- Date: February 8th 2024
- Time: 11:15 am – 12:15 pm
The Canadian YSS project is currently in year two and has two additional goals:
- Train six regional offices of the YMCA Greater Toronto Area to deliver ODEN’s family workshop.
- Partnership with DistinctAbility (Nova Scotia) to develop additional employment discovery resources.
ODEN will continue to work with these communities to advance employment opportunities for youth who have developmental disabilities.
This presentation will describe the Canadian Youth Success Strategy – the research that informed it and its activities. It will also review its key outcomes and outputs. Emphasis will be placed on the role that all have to play in ensuring youth who have a developmental disability are prepared for a future that includes employment.
- Jennifer Crowson
- Elia Molinari (Moderator)
Networking Break
Meet the Sponsors
- Date: February 8th 2024
- Time: 12:15 pm – 12:30 pm
Networking Lunch / Keynote
- Date: February 8th 2024
- Time: 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
Indigenous Communities & ESG:
The Role We All Have to Play
- Date: February 8th 2024
- Time: 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
- Bridge Traditional Indigenous Wisdom with Western Climate Strategy: Understand the intrinsic connection between Indigenous knowledge systems and sustainable land stewardship.
- Examine the Impact of Climate Policies on Indigenous Lands: Analyze the direct and indirect effects of climate policies on Indigenous territories and resources.
- Highlight Indigenous-Led Climate Initiatives: Showcase successful Indigenous-led climate initiatives that prioritize environmental sustainability, community well-being, and cultural preservation.
- Facilitate Dialogues between Indigenous Leaders and Stakeholders: Provide a platform for open discussions between Indigenous leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.
Harmony and Belonging:
- Date: February 8th 2024
- Time: 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
In this strategy session, you will progress through five components of an EDI framework designed to support your organization in adopting a strategic approach to advancing EDI. Together, we will work through the framework and help you identify actions and questions to take back to your organization. Additionally, we will share best practices and insights to support current and future leaders in confidentially leading change efforts. We look forward to learning alongside you in an interactive and informative session.
Zero-Revolution:
- Date: February 8th 2024
- Time: 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
- Electrification Success Stories: Discover innovative solutions driving the adoption of electric vehicles in medium and heavy-duty fleets across Canada.
- Leadership Insights: Gain valuable insights into the leadership initiatives scaling the future of zero-emission vehicles in transportation.
- Panel Discussions: Engage in dynamic discussions with industry experts on fleet statistics, technologies, and challenges in the EV sector.
- Interactive Q&A: Interact with experts and share your perspective by contributing to the conversation on revolutionizing the medium and heavy-duty fleet industry.
Leave empowered with practical knowledge on cutting-edge technologies, proven strategies, and collaborative approaches to make a difference in creating a sustainable and resilient future for transportation.
- Arjan Sharma
- Ted Dowling
- Megan Lohmann
- Umme Abiha (Moderator)
Meet the Sponsors / Exhibit Activities /
Speed Mentorship
- Date: February 8th 2024
- Time: 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
AWARDS GALA
Canadian Pathways:
Policy and Transparency in Supply Chain Managemen
- Date: February 9th 2024
- Time: 8:30 am – 9:30 am
In the ever-evolving landscape of global trade and commerce policy and transparency in supply chain management are critical elements for ensuring risk mitigation, promoting ethical practices, complying with regulations, and building trust among consumers and stakeholders. This session is a must-attend for professionals seeking to navigate the complexities of supply chain management in the Canadian context.
Key Highlights:
- Promote Transparency in Supply Chains: Showcase best practices and case studies of companies fostering transparency in their supply chains.
- Address Ethical Considerations: Explore the role of Canadian businesses in ensuring ethical sourcing, fair labour practices, and environmental responsibility.
- Technology and Innovation in Supply Chain Transparency: Discuss the role of technology, including blockchain and data analytics, in enhancing transparency throughout the supply chain
Whether you are involved in policy development, corporate governance, or operational aspects of the supply chain, this session promises valuable insights, best practices, and a platform for networking with industry leaders and experts.
- Stephanie Forbes
- Tara Seitz (Moderator)
Planning for Climate Change in Canada:
Navigating Challenges, Building Resilience and Driving Sustainable Solution
- Date: February 9th 2024
- Time: 8:30 am – 9:30 am
This session is a Call to Action. It offers a platform for attendees to come together, share knowledge, and collaborate on solutions to address one of the most significant challenges of our time. Join us for an insightful and motivating discussion that provides the tools and knowledge needed to plan for a resilient and sustainable future in the face of climate change.
Key Highlights:
- Adaptation Strategies: Learn about innovative strategies for adapting to climate change, including infrastructure improvements, land-use planning, and ecosystem restoration.
- Mitigation Efforts: Examine initiatives that are reducing Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to global climate change mitigation.
- Resilience Building: Understand how businesses, communities, and individuals can build resilience in the face of a changing climate.
- Sustainable Solutions: Showcase success stories and innovative sustainable solutions that are driving positive change in Canada.
Leave with an enhanced understanding of the role of policy, community engagement, and cross-sector collaboration in climate change mitigation and adaptation.
- Clarissa Arsenault (Ept Winner)
- Sonak Patel
- Ronak Patel
- Seth Leon
- Geni Peters (Moderator)
Sustainable Futures:
Fostering Inclusive Employment for a Greener Tomorrow
- Date: February 9th 2024
- Time: 8:30 am – 9:30 am
Join us as we unravel the symbiotic relationship between sustainable business practices and creating meaningful job opportunities for individuals with diverse abilities.
Key Highlights:
- Inclusive Green Jobs: Discover how inclusive employment initiatives can play a pivotal role in the development of jobs. Explore case studies showcasing successful models that integrate individuals with diverse abilities into environmentally conscious sectors.
- Economic and Social Impact: Uncover the dual impact of supported employment within the environmental sector. Learn about the economic benefits of a diverse workforce and the positive social implications that arise from fostering a culture of inclusion.
- Best Practices and Success Stories: Engage with industry experts and practitioners who have successfully implemented inclusive employment programs in organizations. Gain insights into the strategies, challenges, and triumphs that come with creating a workplace that values diversity.
- Policy Perspectives: Delve into the policy landscape surrounding inclusive employment. Explore how policy changes can foster an ecosystem that encourages the integration of individuals with diverse abilities into the green workforce.
In this session, participants will delve into the transformative power of inclusive employment practices that not only promote social equity but also contribute to a more environmentally conscious workforce.
- Tonya Seabrook
- Joy McKinnon
- Dr. Jennifer Crowson (Moderator)
Great Leadership is a Network, not a Hierarchy:
Embracing Change and Transformation in a Boundaryless World
- Date: February 9th 2024
- Time: 8:30 am – 9:30 am
In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and globalization traditional hierarchical leadership models are giving way to more agile and network-centric approaches. Join us while we explore the paradigm shift necessary for leaders to thrive in a boundaryless world.
Key Highlights:
- Technological Integration and Leadership: We will discuss the role of artificial intelligence, data analytics, and digital platforms in shaping modern leadership.
- Navigating Change and Transformation: Provide insights on fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation within an organization.
- The Evolving Leadership Landscape: Exploring the impact of globalization, digitalization, and cultural diversity on leadership dynamics.
Attendees will leave with actionable insights, practical strategies, and a renewed perspective on leadership that transcends traditional hierarchies.
- Somia Sadiq
- Kimberley Burfoot (Moderator)
Talent Magnet:
- Date: February 9th 2024
- Time: 10:00 am – 11:00 am
- Brian White
- Claudine Vidallo (Moderator)
Leading the Charge:
- Date: February 9th 2024
- Time: 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Canada stands at the forefront of a transformative journey towards a greener, more resilient future. This session aims to explore the innovative solutions, technology and collaborative efforts that are propelling Canada toward environmental leadership.
Key Highlights:
- Innovative Technologies Driving Sustainability: Explore groundbreaking technologies that are revolutionizing the environmental landscape in Canada.
- Community Engagement and Grassroots Movements: Showcase successful grassroots movements that have influenced positive environmental change at the local level.
- Government Initiatives and Policy Frameworks: Discuss the impact of government regulations on fostering innovation and driving green economic growth.
Leave with a deeper understanding of the innovative initiatives shaping Canada’s environmental landscape, insights into successful strategies for sustainability, and inspiration to contribute to the ongoing transformation toward a more environmentally conscious future.
- Luke Wilson
- Derek Armstrong
- Aaron Wilson (Moderator)
Navigating Canada’s Path to Net-Zero:
Innovations and Policy Imperatives
- Date: February 9th 2024
- Time: 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Join us for a dynamic and insightful session as we delve into the multifaceted journey of Canada towards achieving Net Zero emissions. This session will explore the latest advancements in carbon capture regulations, sustainable practices and innovation that are instrumental in mitigating Canada’s carbon footprint.
Key Highlights:
- Emissions Trading and Policy Imperatives
- Roles of Innovation and Human Capital in Achieving Net Zero
- Strategy and Collaboration
- Future Outlook
- David Yiptong
- Amy Zell
- Edwin Makkinga
- Pooja Sharma (Moderator)
Nature Based Climate Solutions and Green Infrastructure Projects (Broadcasted):
A Workforce for Sustainable Solutions in BC and Alberta (WEBINAR)
- Date: February 9th 2024
- Time: 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Join us for a dynamic and insightful session as we delve into the multifaceted journey of Canada towards achieving Net Zero emissions. This session will explore the latest advancements in carbon capture regulations, sustainable practices and innovation that are instrumental in mitigating Canada’s carbon footprint.
Key Highlights:
- Emissions Trading and Policy Imperatives
- Roles of Innovation and Human Capital in Achieving Net Zero
- Strategy and Collaboration
- Future Outlook
- David Yiptong
- Amy Zell
- Edwin Makkinga
- Pooja Sharma (Moderator)
A Sprinkle of Magic:
How Social Innovation Can Shape Our Energy and Climate Future
- Date: February 9th 2024
- Time: 11:15 am – 12:15 pm
How does energy play a role in climate change? Getting to net-zero requires navigating complex challenges and systems. Innovators and changemakers are leaning in to create technological and industrial pathways. But beyond the technology, it will take unprecedented collaboration working across divides to meet this challenge.
Key Highlights:
- Social Innovation: We’ll explore how novel approaches to promising solutions can help create the conditions for systems-level change through policy, narratives, business models, processes and collaboration
- Supporting people and communities as they lean into the energy transition to help ensure social and economic resiliency for generations to come.
- How new growth industries can be supported to position Canada’s economy to thrive in a net-zero future.
Expect a thought-provoking discussion on creative approaches to complex challenges and a primer on social innovation and systems-thinking for a bold and bright future.
- Laura Kennett
- Steve Saddleback
- Todd Becker
- Ailsa Popilian (Moderator)
Retrofitting Communities:
- Date: February 9th 2024
- Time: 10:00 am – 11:00 am
In an era marked by rapid urbanization and environmental consciousness, the imperative to retrofit aging communities has become a central focus in sustainable development. This session seeks to bring together thought leaders, practitioners, and experts to explore the multifaceted challenges and innovative solutions associated with upgrading established communities to meet modern standards of sustainability and resilience.
Key Highlights:
- Electrification: The benefits are compelling: reduced greenhouse gas emissions, cleaner air quality, and decreased reliance on fossil fuels. Electrification promises a significant contribution to Canada’s climate goals.
- Design Guidelines and Policy: Delve into the formulation and implementation of urban planning policies that balance the preservation of community character with the imperative for sustainable and resilient development.
- Energy Efficiency Upgrades: The latest technologies and methodologies for upgrading existing structures to meet contemporary energy standards, reduce carbon footprints, and enhance overall environmental performance.
- On-Site Renewable Energy Sources: The integration of renewable energy sources is pivotal for sustainable community retrofitting.
- Frank Crawford
- Ben Hildebrandt
- Alex Joseph (Moderator)
Investing in a Time of ESG Skepticism:
Navigating Environmental, Social, and Governance Factors for Sustainable Returns
- Date: February 9th 2024
- Time: 11:15 am – 12:15 pm
ESG investing is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a fundamental element of sustainable finance. This session delves into the complexities of ESG factors, addressing the concerns and skepticism that have arisen in recent years. Our expert panelists will shed light on the evolving ESG landscape, providing practical guidance on how investors can navigate this dynamic environment to achieve sustainable returns in Canada.
Key Highlights:
- The Shifting Paradigm of ESG: Understand how the perception of ESG has evolved and the role it plays in the investment world today.
- ESG Skepticism: Fact or Fiction? Explore the various arguments and doubts surrounding ESG investing, and distinguish between legitimate concerns and misconceptions.
- Canada’s ESG Framework: Gain insights into the unique ESG landscape in Canada and how it compares to global trends.
This session will equip investors, financial professionals, and business leaders with the knowledge and tools to harness ESG factors for both financial growth and a positive societal impact.
- Clifford Sukhai
- David Brock
- Yogendra Chaudhry (Moderator)
Break Time
Meet the Sponsors/Funders
- Date: February 9th 2024
- Time: 12:15 pm – 12:30 pm
Networking Lunch / Minister Sawhney Keynote
- Date: February 9th 2024
- Time: 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
Accelerating Green Skills:
Building a Skilled Workforce with Competency Profiling
- Date: February 9th 2024
- Time: 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
In a rapidly evolving landscape focused on sustainability, the need for a skilled workforce equipped with green skills has never been more critical. This session delves into the innovative approach of competency profiling as a catalyst for accelerating the development of green skills. By analyzing the specific skills and knowledge required for sustainable practices, competency profiling enables organizations to tailor training programs and educational initiatives to meet the demands of a green future.
- Geni Peters
- Peter Andryszewicz
- Frank Crawford (Moderator)
Immerse yourself in a unique and dynamic networking experience at ECO IMPACT through our innovative Speed Mentorship sessions. Designed to maximize meaningful connections, Speed Mentorship is a fast-paced, engaging opportunity for participants to connect with seasoned professionals and experts in the environmental fields.
How It Works:
Participants will have the chance to engage in a series of brief, one-on-one sessions with a diverse group of mentors, each bringing a wealth of experience and expertise. The format is simple yet powerful: every few minutes, participants rotate to a new mentor, creating a dynamic and efficient environment for knowledge exchange.
Book your slot now by clicking here!
Conference Ends
- Date: February 9th 2024
- Time: 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Immerse yourself in a unique and dynamic networking experience at ECO IMPACT through our innovative Speed Mentorship sessions. Designed to maximize meaningful connections, Speed Mentorship is a fast-paced, engaging opportunity for participants to connect with seasoned professionals and experts in the environmental fields.
How It Works:
Participants will have the chance to engage in a series of brief, one-on-one sessions with a diverse group of mentors, each bringing a wealth of experience and expertise. The format is simple yet powerful: every few minutes, participants rotate to a new mentor, creating a dynamic and efficient environment for knowledge exchange.
Book your slot now by clicking here!
