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Agenda

ECO IMPACT 2025:
Conference Agenda

Welcome to the ECO IMPACT 2025 Conference Agenda! Here, you’ll find an overview of our event schedule, featuring diverse sessions that promote dialogue and collaboration in environmental innovation. From engaging keynotes and interactive workshops to networking opportunities, our agenda is designed to inspire impactful discussions on sustainability.

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All New Learning Series Format

This year, the ECO IMPACT 2025 Conference introduces three dynamic Learning Series paths: AI/Environmental Sustainability, Education/Auditing, and Workforce/ECO Insights.

These paths will shape the conference experience and provide focused insights into key areas of environmental innovation. Each path features multiple sessions that run concurrently, allowing attendees to customize their conference experience based on their interests and professional needs. Click here for detailed information about these paths and scroll down to choose your path!

Don’t miss the event’s highlight—our Awards Gala at 5:30 PM! Join us for an evening of fine dining, entertainment, and celebration as we honour the outstanding achievements of environmental trailblazers. Explore the detailed agenda below to plan your experience and connect with industry leaders committed to a sustainable future.

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Customize your path by exploring sessions in any conference stream.

Workforce/ECO Insights

  • 8:00 AM to 8:30 AM MT
    Breakfast Networking
Opening Plenary Session

AI-powered Sustainability: Shaping the Future Workforce and Environment

Speakers:

  • Location: Ballroom
As we move toward a more sustainable future, the integration of artificial intelligence is transforming industries and reshaping the workforce. This opening plenary will delve into the powerful role AI plays in driving sustainability, from optimizing resource use to advancing climate resilience. Leaders from the AI, cleantech, and environmental sectors will explore how these innovations are not only addressing global environmental challenges but also creating new career opportunities and skill demands. Join us to kick off ECO IMPACT with a visionary discussion on how AI-powered sustainability is shaping the future of work and the environment.
  • 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM MT
    Coffee Break
Eyes on the Earth

Pipeline Habitat Restoration

  • Location: Ballroom

Speakers:

  • Libby Price
  • Nolan Duguid

 Attendees will gain insights into innovative approaches to environmental restoration, learn best practices for improving revegetation outcomes, and understand how leveraging aerial monitoring can optimize cost, compliance, and sustainability in pipeline projects.

  • 11:00 AM to 11:15 AM MT
    Coffee Break
Designing Missing Middle Housing for Cold Climates

Challenges and Solutions

Speakers:

  • Location: Ballroom
Through the generous support of Alberta Ecotrust, Passive House Alberta and Partners are in the process of developing a set of standardized Missing Middle housing plans for Alberta’s Cold Climate. The presenters will explain the term “missing middle housing” and its implications. Passive House Alberta has conducted a Province wide survey to better understand the needs of Albertans in terms of Missing Middle housing. A discussion about the survey results will round out the first part of this presentation.
 
The presentation will be followed by a facilitated conversation about the features and specifications that the ideal plans should contain.
  • 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM MT
    Networking Lunch
Navigating the Future Workforce

Addressing Challenges and Driving Development

Speakers:

  • Location: Ballroom
This fireside chat brings together Dr. Geni Peters and Colette Kaminsky, for an in-depth discussion about the future of the workforce. The session will address critical barriers, explore emerging trends, and provide actionable insights on workforce development and employment equity.
 
Drawing from Dr. Peters’ extensive research and Colette Kaminsky’s expertise in inclusive workforce strategies, this conversation will offer a well-rounded view of how organizations and policymakers can collaboratively shape the future of work in Canada.
Bridging Environmental
Skills Gaps

Through Essential Skills and Competency-Based Approaches

  • Location: Ballroom

Speakers:

This interactive stakeholder session will bring together employers, educational institutions, government bodies, diversity groups, and community organizations to align talent development strategies with the Skills for Success framework and address critical gaps in environmental and essential skills. Participants will explore innovative solutions to bridge skills gaps through enhanced hiring, onboarding, and workforce development practices, while identifying opportunities for collaboration.


Key Objectives:
• Integrate environmental skills (e.g., sustainability, monitoring) with essential skills (e.g., digital literacy, critical thinking).
• Address knowledge gaps in emerging technologies, including renewable energy systems and environmental monitoring tools.
• Analyze disconnects between entry-level requirements and candidate preparedness, identifying barriers such as excessive experience expectations.
• Promote competency-based hiring models to enhance workforce readiness.
• Encourage partnerships among employers, educational institutions, government, and diversity groups to improve equitable access.
• Anticipate future workforce trends and prepare for evolving environmental skills demands.

We invite you to join us for this insightful and collaborative session to explore actionable strategies and build a stronger, future-ready workforce. Your participation will help shape innovative solutions to address critical skills gaps and drive impactful change in the environmental sector.

  • 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM MT
    Meet the Sponsors / Exhibit Activities
  • 8:00 AM to 8:30 AM MT
    Breakfast Networking
Women in Environmental Leadership:

Shaping the Future Workforce

  • Location: Ballroom

Speakers:

Featuring a panel of accomplished women leaders, participants will explore their experiences, challenges, and successes in shaping environmental policies and initiatives. The discussion will focus on strategies to empower women in the workforce, the importance of mentorship, and the impact of inclusive leadership on organizational culture and sustainability outcomes.

  • 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM MT
    Coffee Break
Creating Career Pathways in the Blue Economy
  • Location: Ballroom

Speakers:

The blue economy offers immense opportunities for sustainable growth and job creation across marine and coastal sectors. This session will focus on developing career pathways that empower individuals to thrive in this emerging field. Attendees will learn about the skills and training needed to succeed, as well as initiatives aimed at fostering youth engagement and workforce development. Join us to explore how we can build a resilient and inclusive workforce that drives innovation and sustainability in the blue economy, ensuring a healthier ocean and coastal environment for future generations.

  • 11:00 AM to 11:15 AM MT
    Coffee Break
Building a Greener Future

How Energy Efficiency and Innovative Building Technologies are Shaping the Environmental Workforce

  • Location: Ballroom

As the push for sustainability intensifies, energy efficiency and innovative building technologies are revolutionizing the environmental workforce and reshaping the construction landscape. This session will explore how these advancements are creating new career opportunities and transforming traditional roles within the industry. Panelists will discuss the essential skills and training required to thrive in this evolving field, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration to achieve sustainable outcomes.

  • 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM MT
    Networking Lunch
Breaking Barriers

Empowering Disabled Professionals in the Workplace

  • Location: Ballroom

This session sheds light on the systemic barriers faced by differently abled individuals in employment, from accessibility challenges to biases in hiring and retention practices. Join experts, advocates, and professionals to explore innovative strategies and success stories that highlight how workplaces can foster inclusivity, remove obstacles, and unlock the potential of all employees. This session is a call to action for organizations to champion diversity and equity in the workforce.

  • 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM MT
    Conference Ends

Education/Auditing

  • 8:00 AM to 8:30 AM MT
    Breakfast Networking
Opening Plenary Session

AI-powered Sustainability: Shaping the Future Workforce and Environment

Speakers:

  • Location: Ballroom
As we move toward a more sustainable future, the integration of artificial intelligence is transforming industries and reshaping the workforce. This opening plenary will delve into the powerful role AI plays in driving sustainability, from optimizing resource use to advancing climate resilience. Leaders from the AI, cleantech, and environmental sectors will explore how these innovations are not only addressing global environmental challenges but also creating new career opportunities and skill demands. Join us to kick off ECO IMPACT with a visionary discussion on how AI-powered sustainability is shaping the future of work and the environment.
  • 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM MT
    Coffee Break
Auditing Essentials

Building an Organization's Sustainable Future Through Accountability

Speakers:

  • Location: Ballroom

Explore the vital role of auditing in fostering accountability and sustainability within organizations. This session offers expert insights through two focused presentations, followed by a dynamic moderator-led discussion and an interactive audience Q&A. Attendees will gain knowledge on the various types of audits, key players, important steps in the audit process, and real-world lessons learned that can enhance transparency and drive resilience in an organization. Information will also be provided on current auditor certifications, auditing organizations, how to gain audit experience and more. Whether you’re an auditor or a leader, this session will equip you with the tools to build a sustainable and accountable future.

  • 11:00 AM to 11:15 AM MT
    Coffee Break
Bridging Generations

Evolving Mentorship in the Environmental Industry

  • Location: Ballroom

Speakers:

Join a panel discussion of intermediate and senior professionals within the environmental industry as the provide insight into the progression of their careers, what type of mentorship and coaching they seek currently and have sought in the past and how mentorship and coaching has evolved since their careers began.  This discussion will explore the obstacles professionals face, opportunities to build a mentorship relationship(s) and provide real life situations and experiences that the panel has faced and overcome.

  • 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM MT
    Networking Lunch
Celebrating Certification

Achievements and the Future of ECO Canada's Designations

  • Location: Ballroom

Speakers:

Join us for an engaging session as we celebrate the milestones and successes of ECO Canada’s certification programs over the past year. This live report will highlight key achievements in the development and growth of our certification offerings, showcasing how these programs have supported members and driven progress in the environmental sector. We’ll also explore the future of certification at ECO Canada, including upcoming initiatives, new areas of certification, and the evolving landscape of environmental professional development. Whether you’re a certified member or considering certification, this session will provide valuable insights into how ECO Canada is shaping the future of environmental careers.

 

Who Should Attend: This session is perfect for a wide range of individuals and organizations involved in the environmental and/or ocean sector including: blue economy professionals, environmental practitioners, students, employers, auditors, experts in emissions management and climate change mitigation, etc. This session is designed for anyone who wants to understand the evolving landscape of environmental certification, gain insights into program successes, and explore new opportunities for growth within both the green and blue economy.

  • 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM MT
    Meet the Sponsors / Exhibit Activities
  • 8:00 AM to 8:30 AM MT
    Breakfast Networking
Innovative Green Learning

Eco-Centric Solutions in the Digital Age

Speakers:

  • Location: Ballroom
  • 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM MT
    Coffee Break
Increasing Ambition

Embedding the SDGs in the Workforce of the Future

Speakers:

  • Location: Ballroom

This session will explore the intersection of innovation, environmental stewardship, and sustainable economic growth through the lens of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. From decent work and economic development to climate action and life below water and on land, panelists will highlight cutting-edge initiatives and collaborative solutions that are driving meaningful progress toward these critical goals. Join industry leaders, environmental professionals, and sustainability experts as they share insights on how technology, partnerships, and policy can work together to create resilient ecosystems, thriving economies, and a sustainable future for all.

  • 11:00 AM to 11:15 AM MT
    Coffee Break
Next steps in Building a Vibrant Indigenous Workforce
  • Location: Ballroom

Speakers:

Building a vibrant Indigenous workforce is essential for fostering sustainability, cultural preservation, and economic growth within Indigenous communities and beyond. This session will focus on actionable strategies for enhancing Indigenous participation in various sectors, particularly in environmental and resource management. Participants will engage in discussions about the importance of culturally relevant training and partnerships that empower Indigenous individuals to enter and thrive in the workforce.

  • 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM MT
    Networking Lunch
Inspiring Changemakers

Engaging Youth at Work for a Sustainable Future

Speakers:

Now more than ever, young people seek work that aligns with their values while making a meaningful contribution to their workplace. At the same time, the importance of fostering strong climate leadership within youth is essential for businesses that seek to create long-lasting sustainability solutions. This workshop will delve into innovative strategies for engaging the next generation in environmental careers and leadership. Gain insights into fostering passion for sustainability, creating inclusive opportunities, and empowering young changemakers to lead the call to action in their communities and beyond. Employers, educators, and those working with youth will discover how to inspire and support the leaders of tomorrow.

  • Location: Ballroom
  • 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM MT
    Conference Ends

AI/Environmental Sustainability

  • 8:00 AM to 8:30 AM MT
    Breakfast Networking
Opening Plenary Session

AI-powered Sustainability: Shaping the Future Workforce and Environment

Speakers:

  • Location: Ballroom
As we move toward a more sustainable future, the integration of artificial intelligence is transforming industries and reshaping the workforce. This opening plenary will delve into the powerful role AI plays in driving sustainability, from optimizing resource use to advancing climate resilience. Leaders from the AI, cleantech, and environmental sectors will explore how these innovations are not only addressing global environmental challenges but also creating new career opportunities and skill demands. Join us to kick off ECO IMPACT with a visionary discussion on how AI-powered sustainability is shaping the future of work and the environment.
  • 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM MT
    Coffee Break
Bioremediation Breakthroughs

A Game-Changer for the Remediation Industry

  • Location: Ballroom

Speakers:

Discover how bioremediation is revolutionizing the remediation industry. This session will explore two powerful approaches—Bio Stimulation and Bio Augmentation—and how they’re transforming the way we tackle environmental challenges. From ancient civilizations unknowingly using microbes to modern-day breakthroughs, we’ll dive into the history, successes, and challenges of bioremediation. Plus, learn about cutting-edge innovations and why thinking beyond immediate timelines is key to creating lasting change in our environment.

  • 11:00 AM to 11:15 AM MT
    Coffee Break
Urban Mining

Unlocking the Critical Mineral Chain for a Sustainable Future

Speakers:

  • Location: Ballroom

In an era defined by rapid urbanization and increasing demand for critical minerals, “Urban Mining: Unlocking the Critical Mineral Chain for a Sustainable Future” explores the transformative potential of urban mining in addressing the challenges of resource scarcity and environmental sustainability. As traditional mining practices face significant social and ecological scrutiny, urban mining emerges as a viable alternative, enabling the recovery of valuable materials from consumer batteries, and other urban sources.

Building Intersectional Workplaces in the Environmental Sector
  • Location: Ballroom

Speakers:

This session will explore actionable strategies for fostering workplaces where individuals from diverse backgrounds can thrive. Topics include breaking down employment barriers, addressing unconscious biases, implementing equitable career policies, and examining the link between inclusivity and enhanced organizational success.

  • 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM MT
    Networking Lunch
Conducting a Climate Change Risk Assessment for Any Organization

Speakers:

  • Location: Ballroom

This interactive workshop provides participants the opportunity to learn and practice conducting a climate change risk assessment, tailored for any organization. Working in small groups, participants will engage with a case study that applies broadly across sectors, facilitated by Green Sky Sustainability. Through a simulated experience, participants will navigate the steps of a climate risk assessment following the methodology prescribed under the Climate Lens Assessment guidance by Infrastructure Canada. This commonly used approach in Canada also aligns with the ISO 14091 risk assessment standard, ensuring participants gain hands-on experience with industry-standard practices.

  • 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM MT
    Meet the Sponsors / Exhibit Activities
  • 8:00 AM to 8:30 AM MT
    Breakfast Networking
Navigating the Complexities of Global Supply Chains

Speakers:

  • Location: Ballroom

Explore the challenges and opportunities in managing global supply chains. This session will delve into strategies for navigating complexities such as sustainability, risk management, and efficiency, offering insights on how to build resilient, responsible supply chains in a rapidly changing world.

  • 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM MT
    Coffee Break
Graham Construction and Nectivio

Speakers:

  • Location: Ballroom

Join Graham Construction and Nectivio for a session on innovative approaches to emissions management and sustainability reporting in construction. Learn how their collaboration has streamlined emissions tracking through AI-powered automation by reducing costs, errors, and manual reporting. Key highlights include the integration of historical emissions data, the development of an employee commuting module for Scope 3 emissions, and the launch of an Embodied Emissions Module for a major Toronto project. Discover how these advancements are driving sustainable efficiency and accuracy in the construction industry, positioning Graham as a leader in eco-friendly practices and emissions compliance.

  • 11:00 AM to 11:15 AM MT
    Coffee Break
AI for Sustainability: Navigating Opportunities, Risks, and Nature-Positive Solutions

Speakers:

  • Location: Ballroom

While we have successfully cultivated a generation of new tech entrants and innovators focused on or, at the very least, hyper-aware of a changing climate, they are missing some of the most basic elements of good governance and risk management. Without knowing what these are, and how to integrate them companies and individuals with a lot on the line can find themselves just displacing other environmental impacts, not meeting investor expectations or, worse, not being recognized as the leader of clean and green solutions that they seek to be. Attendees at this presentation will be introduced to the concepts of materiality, importance of good governance processes, impact assessment and performance metrics.

  • 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM MT
    Networking Lunch
Building the Future

Navigating Adoption and Compliance with National Building and Energy Codes

  • Location: Ballroom

Speakers:

This comprehensive workshop will focus on the “What” and “How” aspects of adopting building codes, with a special emphasis on the National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings (NECB) 2020. Participants will gain a thorough understanding of:
 
  • What are NBC and NECB?
  • How can communities adopt these codes, especially NECB 2020?
  • How can communities enforce and comply with these codes?
  • Challenges and barriers to compliance.

 

Join us to equip yourself with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively adopt, enforce, and comply with the highest feasible energy building codes, driving sustainability and efficiency in your community.
  • 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM MT
    Conference Ends

AWARDS GALA

February 12 from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM MT

The Awards Gala is an evening dedicated to honouring the visionaries and innovators driving progress in the environmental sector. Join us for an unforgettable night of fine dining, networking, and entertainment as we recognize the achievements shaping a greener, more resilient future.

Cocktails / Networking
  • Date: February 12, 2025
  • Time: 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Dinner & Awards Presentation
  • Date: February 12, 2025
  • Time: 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Keynote Speaker
  • Date: February 12, 2025
  • Time: 8:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Networking Continues
  • Date: February 12, 2025
  • Time: 9:30 pm – 10:30 pm
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Land Acknowledgment

In the spirit of respect, reciprocity and truth, we honour and acknowledge Moh’kinsstis and the traditional Treaty 7 territory and oral practices of the Blackfoot confederacy: Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, as well as the Îyâxe Nakoda and Tsuut’ina nations. We acknowledge that this territory is home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3, within the historical Northwest Métis homeland. Finally, we recognize all Nations who live, work and play on this land and honour and celebrate this territory.