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ECO IMPACT 2026 Agenda

ECO IMPACT 2026 brings together environmental leaders, innovators, and changemakers to explore solutions for a sustainable future. Below is the detailed agenda for our two-day event.

Live Learning Sessions

Thought Leaders​
  • Corporate Accountability and Impact
  • Workforce Transformation & Innovation
  • Women leaders in Sustainability
  • Nature Based Investment Strategy
  • The Ethics of Automation in Environmental Work: Balancing Innovation with Inclusion
Newcomers & Job Seekers
  • Launching Your Career in Environmental Sectors: Pathways & Certifications 
  • Green Jobs of Tomorrow: Where Are the Opportunities? 
  • Pathways to Employment
  • Experiential Learning & Career Growth
Technical
  • Advanced Applications of AI in Environmental Monitoring
  • Energy System Modeling for Net-Zero Pathways
  • Digital Tools for Circular Economy Integration
  • Data-Driven Decision Making
Applied Technical
  • Demystifying AI for Sustainability: Practical Use Cases
  • Renewable Energy Innovations: What’s Next in Solar, Wind, & Hydro?
  • How Digital Twins Are Transforming Environmental Decision-Making
  • Climate Tech 101: What Businesses Need to Know

February 19, 2026​

8:00 AM to 8:30 AM

Registration Opens

Pick up your badge and event materials while meeting fellow delegates.

8:00 AM to 8:30 AM

Breakfast Networking

Enjoy coffee and conversation with peers before the sessions begin.

8:30 AM to 9:45 AM 

OPENING PLENARY: The Tipping Point: Accelerating Innovation in an Age of Disruption

Speakers:

Kevin Nilsen

President & CEO of ECO Canada

Heather Exner-Pirot

Director of Energy, Natural Resources and Environment Program | Macdonald-Laurier Institute

9:45 AM to 10:00 AM

Coffee Break

Enjoy coffee and conversation with peers before the sessions begin.

10:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Technology & Innovation

The Next Frontier: Innovations and Insights in Modern Environmental Auditing

Speakers:

Evan Baker MSc, EP®(CEA)

Senior Consultant & Assurance Practice Lead | SPAN Consulting

10:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Education & Workforce

Future of Food: Advancing Sustainability and Innovation in Canada’s Agri-Food Sector

Speakers:

Dr. John Cranfield

Dean, Ontario Agricultural College | University of Guelph

Alison Sunstrum

Founder/CEO | CNSRV-X Inc.

10:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Innovation Stage 

Speakers:

Evan Baker MSc, EP®(CEA)

Senior Consultant & Assurance Practice Lead | SPAN Consulting

11:00 AM to 11:15 AM

Coffee Break

Enjoy coffee and conversation with peers before the sessions begin.

11:15 AM to 12:15 PM

Education & Workforce

The Accountability Era: Navigating ESG for Transparency and Corporate Responsibility

Speakers:

Tonya Lagrasta

Global Head of Sustainability | Colliers

Adam Schwartz

Director, Corporate Sustainability and Reporting | Delphi

11:15 AM to 12:15 PM

Technology & Innovation 

Ethical by Design: Guiding AI Toward a Sustainable Environmental Future

Speakers:

Dr. Jason Millar

Director, Canadian Robotics and AI Ethical Design Lab | uOttawa

Alison Sunstrum

Founder/CEO | CNSRV-X Inc.

11:15 AM to 12:15 PM

Innovation Stage 

Speakers:

Evan Baker MSc, EP®(CEA)

Senior Consultant & Assurance Practice Lead | SPAN Consulting

12:15 PM to 1:30 PM 

Networking Lunch

Recharge over lunch and build new professional connections.

1:30 PM to 2:30 PM

Education & Workforce

Beyond Risk: Reclaiming Nature as a Profitable Asset Class

Speakers:

Daniel O’Brien

Sustainability & Nature Specialist

Adam Schwartz

Director, Corporate Sustainability and Reporting | Delphi

1:30 PM to 4:30 PM

Technology & Innovation 

Designing the Future You Want to Lead: A LEGO® Serious Play® Workshop

Speakers:

Tamara Connell

CEO | Academy for Sustainable Innovation

Alison Sunstrum

Founder/CEO | CNSRV-X Inc.

1:30 PM to 4:30 PM

Innovation Stage 

Speakers:

Evan Baker MSc, EP®(CEA)

Senior Consultant & Assurance Practice Lead | SPAN Consulting

5:00 PM to 6:00 PM 

Cocktails

Unwind and connect with colleagues in a relaxed setting.

6:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Dinner

Share a meal with peers while reflecting on the day’s insights.

7:00 PM 

Awards Gala

Celebrate excellence and achievement in the environmental sector.

February 20, 2026

7:00 AM to 8:00 AM

Registration Opens

Check in early and prepare for another full day of learning.

8:00 AM to 8:30 AM

Breakfast Networking

Start your morning with meaningful conversations over breakfast.

8:30 AM to 9:30 AM

Technology & Innovation

Green Jobs of Tomorrow: Where Are the Opportunities?

Speakers:

Amanda Hall

CEO & Founder | Summit Nanotech

David Billedeau

President & CEO | Canadian Hydrogen Association

8:30 AM to 9:30 AM

Education & Workforce

Environmental Policies Procedures and Practices : An Indigenous Perspective

Speakers:

Melina Laboucan-Massimo

Executive Director & Founder | Sacred Earth

Mita Dasog

Associate Professor | Dalhousie U

8:30 AM to 9:30 AM

Innovation Stage 

Speakers:

Evan Baker MSc, EP®(CEA)

Senior Consultant & Assurance Practice Lead | SPAN Consulting

9:30 AM to 10:00 AM

Coffee Break

Refuel with refreshments while networking with participants.

10:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Education & Workforce

Women in Sustainability Leadership: Breaking Barriers & Driving Impact

Speakers:

Amanda Hall

CEO & Founder | Summit Nanotech

David Billedeau

President & CEO | Canadian Hydrogen Association

10:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Technology & Innovation

Renewable Energy Innovations: What’s Next in Solar, Wind, & Hydro?

Speakers:

Melina Laboucan-Massimo

Executive Director & Founder | Sacred Earth

Mita Dasog

Associate Professor | Dalhousie U

10:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Innovation Stage 

Speakers:

Evan Baker MSc, EP®(CEA)

Senior Consultant & Assurance Practice Lead | SPAN Consulting

11:00 AM to 11:15 AM

Coffee Break

Refresh and connect with exhibitors and colleagues.

11:15 AM to 12:15 PM

Technology & Innovation

From Pilots to Practice: Advancing Innovative Clean Tech for a Sustainable Tomorrow

Speakers:

Amanda Hall

CEO & Founder | Summit Nanotech

David Billedeau

President & CEO | Canadian Hydrogen Association

11:15 AM to 12:15 PM

Education & Workforce

Educating for Impact: How Institutions are Shaping Canada’s Green Workforce

Speakers:

Judene Pretti

Interim Associate Provost, Co-operative and Experiential Education | Uwaterloo

Alison Sunstrum

Founder/CEO | CNSRV-X Inc.

11:15 AM to 12:15 PM

Innovation Stage 

Speakers:

Evan Baker MSc, EP®(CEA)

Senior Consultant & Assurance Practice Lead | SPAN Consulting

12:30 PM to 1:30 PM 

Networking Lunch

Connect with colleagues and speakers over lunch.

1:30 PM to 4:30 PM

Education & Workforce

GHG Management: Strategies for a Low Carbon Future

Join us for an exclusive 3 hour event focused on the practical implementation of GHG Management and decarbonization strategies. Gain insights into the latest industry trends, strategies for achieving Net Zero, and learn from experts how to tackle real-world challenges and reduce your sector’s carbon footprint.

Speakers:

Kevin Nilsen

President & CEO of ECO Canada

Heather Exner-Pirot

Director of Energy, Natural Resources and Environment Program | Macdonald-Laurier Institute

Awards Gala

February 19 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
Dinner & Awards Presentation
Keynote Speaker
Networking Continues

Floor Plan

Explore the event layout with the floor plan to easily locate session spaces. Use it to navigate directly to your scheduled events without missing a beat.

Step Into the Innovation Stage

The Innovation Stage at ECO IMPACT is your chance to see the next generation of environmental solutions in action. From lightning talks to startup showcases, this dynamic platform connects innovators with investors, partners, and changemakers.

FAQ

Have questions about IMPACT? Check out our FAQ for everything you need to know about joining us at The Westin Calgary. We’re here to help make your experience seamless and enjoyable.

Get In Touch With Us

Event Location

The Westin Calgary, 320 4 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 2S6

When

February 19-20, 2026

The Province of Alberta is working in partnership with the Government of Canada to provide employment support programs and services.

8:30 AM to 9:45 AM 

Opening Plenary
The Tipping Point: Accelerating Innovation in an Age of Disruption

We are living in a defining moment — where technological disruption and shifting economies are transforming the path to sustainability. This opening plenary sets the tone for ECO IMPACT 2025, exploring how innovation can be accelerated in the face of change. Through insights from leaders across sectors, we’ll uncover what it takes to turn disruption into opportunity and chart a course toward a more resilient future.

Kevin Nilsen

President & CEO of ECO Canada

Heather Exner-Pirot

Director of Energy, Natural Resources and Environment Program | Macdonald-Laurier Institute

10:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Technology & Innovation
The Next Frontier: Innovations and Insights in Modern Environmental Auditing

As industries evolve and sustainability expectations rise, environmental auditing is entering a new era — one defined by innovative methodologies. This session uncovers how technology and advanced analytics are reshaping how organizations assess, report, and improve their environmental performance.

Evan Baker MSc, EP®(CEA)

Senior Consultant & Assurance Practice Lead | SPAN Consulting

10:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Education & Workforce
Future of Food: Advancing Sustainability and Innovation in Canada’s Agri-Food Sector

From climate-smart farming to cutting-edge biotechnology, Canada’s agri-food sector is transforming at a remarkable pace. This session explores how producers, innovators, and policymakers are rethinking the processes of growing and distributing food in a changing world.

Dr. John Cranfield

Dean, Ontario Agricultural College | University of Guelph

Alison Sunstrum

Founder/CEO | CNSRV-X Inc.

11:15 AM to 12:15 PM

Education & Workforce
The Accountability Era: Navigating ESG for Transparency and Corporate Responsibility

From climate-smart farming to cutting-edge biotechnology, Canada’s agri-food sector is transforming at a remarkable pace. This session explores how producers, innovators, and policymakers are rethinking the processes of growing and distributing food in a changing world.

Tonya Lagrasta

Global Head of Sustainability | Colliers

Adam Schwartz

Director, Corporate Sustainability and Reporting | Delphi

11:15 AM to 12:15 PM

Technology & Innovation 
Ethical by Design: Guiding AI Toward a Sustainable Environmental Future

Artificial intelligence is transforming industries — and the environmental sector is no exception. This session explores how AI can be harnessed responsibly to drive sustainability and create an impact. Join us to examine real world applications and ehthical considerations that ensure AI innovation aligns with sustainability goals.

Dr. Jason Millar

Director, Canadian Robotics and AI Ethical Design Lab | uOttawa

1:30 PM to 2:30 PM

Education & Workforce
Beyond Risk: Reclaiming Nature as a Profitable Asset Class

For too long, nature-related risks—such as biodiversity loss, land degradation, and ecosystem collapse—have been treated solely as liabilities. But forward-looking businesses and financial institutions are beginning to understand a powerful truth: nature risk isn’t just a threat—it presents a unique set of opportunities. In this session our panelists will explore how stakeholders—including insurers, financial institutions, and large asset holders—can reposition their strategies to view investments in nature restoration, reclamation, and ecosystem resilience as profitable, measurable, and aligned with ESG objectives.

Daniel O’Brien

Sustainability & Nature Specialist

1:30 PM to 4:30 PM

Technology & Innovation 
Designing the Future You Want to Lead: A LEGO® Serious Play® Workshop

For too long, nature-related risks—such as biodiversity loss, land degradation, and ecosystem collapse—have been treated solely as liabilities. But forward-looking businesses and financial institutions are beginning to understand a powerful truth: nature risk isn’t just a threat—it presents a unique set of opportunities. In this session our panelists will explore how stakeholders—including insurers, financial institutions, and large asset holders—can reposition their strategies to view investments in nature restoration, reclamation, and ecosystem resilience as profitable, measurable, and aligned with ESG objectives.

Tamara Connell

CEO | Academy for Sustainable Innovation

8:30 AM to 9:30 AM

Technology & Innovation 
Green Jobs of Tomorrow: Where Are the Opportunities?

The transition to a sustainable economy is creating a wealth of new opportunities — but where are they, and how can job seekers and employers navigate this evolving landscape? This session explores emerging roles across renewable energy, environmental technologies, circular economy initiatives, and sustainable resource management. Join us as we highlight in-demand skills, career pathways, and strategies that will define our future.

Tamara Connell

CEO | Academy for Sustainable Innovation

8:30 AM to 9:30 AM

Education & Workforce
Environmental Policies Procedures and Practices : An Indigenous Perspective

Indigenous professionals are shaping Canada’s environmental future, bringing unique knowledge, perspectives, and stewardship practices to the forefront. This session explores both the opportunities and challenges they face in the environmental workforce — from career pathways and skills development to systemic barriers and access to decision-making roles.

Tamara Connell

CEO | Academy for Sustainable Innovation

10:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Education & Workforce
Women in Sustainability Leadership: Breaking Barriers & Driving Impact

Women are driving innovation and redefining leadership across industries. This session highlights the journeys and strategies of women leaders who are making change in sustainable practices. Join these exceptional women and their allies from across sectors as they share their experiences and explore the challenges and opportunities unique to women in sustainability.

Tamara Connell

CEO | Academy for Sustainable Innovation

10:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Technology & Innovation
Renewable Energy Innovations: What’s Next in Solar, Wind, & Hydro?

The energy landscape is evolving faster than ever, driven by technological breakthroughs and the need for sustainable solutions. This session explores the cutting-edge developments shaping Canada’s clean energy future. Join us as we highlight emerging technologies and strategies for scaling renewable solutions.

Melina Laboucan-Massimo

Executive Director & Founder | Sacred Earth

Mita Dasog

Associate Professor | Dalhousie U

11:15 AM to 12:15 PM

Technology & Innovation
From Pilots to Practice: Advancing Innovative Clean Tech for a Sustainable Tomorrow

Innovative technologies are transforming sustainability — but moving from pilot projects to scalable solutions is the true challenge. This session explores how Canadian startups, accelerators, and industry leaders are bridging that gap. We will showcase successful scaling strategies, highlight Canada’s leadership in clean tech innovation, and share insights on how to drive sustainable solutions from concept to real world change

Amanda Hall

CEO & Founder | Summit Nanotech

David Billedeau

President & CEO | Canadian Hydrogen Association

11:15 AM to 12:15 PM

Education & Workforce
Educating for Impact: How Institutions are Shaping Canada's Green Workforce

As Canada’s environmental sector continues to grow — with over 500,000 new professionals projected by 2033 — post-secondary institutions are evolving to meet this demand. This dynamic panel brings together educators and leaders from Royal Roads University, Mohawk College, and Magnet to explore how curriculum innovation, work-integrated learning, and cross-sector partnerships are preparing students for the green workforce of tomorrow.

Judene Pretti

Interim Associate Provost, Co-operative and Experiential Education | Uwaterloo

1:30 PM to 4:30 PM

Education & Workforce
GHG Management: Strategies for a Low Carbon Future

Join us for an exclusive 3 hour event focused on the practical implementation of GHG Management and decarbonization strategies. Gain insights into the latest industry trends, strategies for achieving Net Zero, and learn from experts how to tackle real-world challenges and reduce your sector’s carbon footprint.

Judene Pretti

Interim Associate Provost, Co-operative and Experiential Education | Uwaterloo

Land Acknowledgment

In the spirit of respect, reciprocity, and truth, we acknowledge that we live, work, and gather on the traditional territories of the peoples of Treaty 7, including the Blackfoot Confederacy—comprising the Siksika, Kainai, and Piikani Nations—as well as the Îyâxe Nakoda and Tsuut’ina Nations.

This land, known as Moh’kinsstis in the Blackfoot language and encompassing what is now Districts 5 and 6, is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3, within the historical Northwest Métis homeland.

We recognize and honour the deep connection these Nations have to the land, and we are grateful for the opportunity to share in its stewardship.

As we continue our work, we commit to learning from Indigenous knowledge systems, uplifting Indigenous voices, and fostering relationships rooted in equity, understanding, and reconciliation.

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