2023 Conference – Grand Challenges

Panel Abstract:
Science plays a key role in supporting a vibrant society and thriving economy in Canada. However, the laboratories of today that are supporting major scientific advances – from medical breakthroughs to insights that keep our environment clean – use tremendous amount of energy and generate considerable waste and greenhouse gas emissions. This ADM panel is a call to action advocating for sustainable design as the future standard for laboratory and research facility work environments. Sustainable design for laboratories can contribute to better science and a better workplace for scientists by promoting energy efficiency, improving indoor environmental quality, reducing waste, conserving water, fostering collaboration, and integrating elements of biophilic design. By creating sustainable and healthy work environments, laboratories can enhance scientific research, productivity, and overall well-being for scientists.

Context:
This panel revolves around sustainable building practices, with a focus on user comfort, environmental impact, and resource efficiency in construction. The panel addresses the prime function of building design, emphasizing the importance of daylight, comfort, and effective heating systems. The discussion also touches on smart buildings and the gap between their theoretical promise and practical implementation, highlighting the importance of user interaction with building management systems for creating comfortable and energy-efficient environments.

Key Takeaways:

Importance of User Comfort: The panel highlights the necessity for buildings to make users feel comfortable. This includes aspects like natural daylight, efficient heating, and noise reduction in air-based systems.
Smart Buildings and User Needs: There’s a recognition of the disparity between the concept of smart buildings and their actual execution. The role of building management systems in adapting to user preferences, such as temperature and space utilization, is crucial.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability: The panelists discuss how building design and management can significantly impact the environment.
Emphasis is placed on reducing energy consumption and adopting more sustainable practices, such as using natural resources more efficiently and considering the carbon footprint of materials and systems.
Challenges in Implementation: Despite knowing what improvements can be made for summer comfort and energy efficiency, the panel acknowledges the difficulty in implementing these changes at scale.

Recommendations:

Promoting Passive Design: The panel suggests that simpler solutions, like well-insulated buildings that require less technology to manage, can be more effective than highly complex systems. Passive designs that naturally maintain comfortable environments are advocated.
Adapting Buildings to User Diversity: Recognizing the diverse needs and preferences of building occupants, the panel recommends that systems should allow for individual control and adjustments, enhancing both comfort and energy efficiency.
Integration of Behavioral Science: To combat misinformation and influence user behavior positively, the application of behavioral science is suggested. This could include strategies to encourage critical thinking and accuracy in information sharing.
Collaborative Efforts Against Misinformation: A call for collaboration among various sectors, including government, academia, media, and technology companies, is made to effectively address misinformation, especially in the context of public health.

* Panel summary generated by OLGOO.com

Panel 712

A Sustainable Future and the Holistic Approach the Healthcare Industry Needs to Apply

Organized by: ROCHE
Panel Date: November 1st, 2023
Speakers:
Antonin Caron
Dr. Laurette Geldenhuys
Gigi Y.C. Wong
Jérôme Ribesse
Myles Sergeant

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Panel Abstract:
Often for a business to be sustainable, it needs to incorporate a holistic approach including the three dimensions; the social pillar, the environmental pillar and the economic pillar. Each of these pillars play a role in how future generations will make choices and address growing needs. The healthcare sector needs to start focusing on the importance of sustainability in our new product development, projects and processes. This panel will explore the benefits to incorporating the holistic approach of the social, environmental and economic pillars into the care patients receive. The future of healthcare needs to make sustainablity a priority. Our expert panel will demonstrate the impact for future generations to come through current examples.

Content:
The panelists, including healthcare experts from across Canada, discussed sustainable practices in the healthcare industry. The key focus was on integrating environmental, social, and economic sustainability in healthcare. Topics ranged from the role of diagnostics in sustainable healthcare to innovative approaches like Roche’s green diagnostic products and initiatives to reduce the healthcare system’s carbon footprint. The session highlighted the interdependence of sustainability’s three pillars: social, environmental, and economic, emphasizing the urgent need to adapt to a rapidly changing global climate and health landscape.

Key Takeaways:

Integrated Approach to Sustainability in Healthcare: The panel emphasized the need for a holistic approach to sustainability, integrating environmental, social, and economic aspects. This is essential for evolving healthcare practices to meet the changing needs of the global environment and population demographics.
Environmental Impact of Healthcare Operations: A significant concern raised was the substantial environmental impact of healthcare operations. This includes high energy consumption, waste production, and greenhouse gas emissions from supply chains. Recognizing and addressing these impacts is key to transitioning towards sustainable healthcare.
Innovative Sustainable Practices: Examples of innovations in sustainable healthcare practices were highlighted, including Roche’s development of efficient diagnostic tools and methods tailored for remote areas. These innovations underscore the role of technology in advancing sustainable healthcare.
Focus on Efficiency and Waste Reduction: The importance of reducing waste and improving efficiency in healthcare processes was discussed. Reducing plastic waste and water usage in diagnostic processes, and overall resource efficiency in healthcare operations, were identified as crucial goals.
Collaboration for Sustainable Products: The panel called for increased collaboration between the healthcare sector and industry in developing sustainable products, such as eco-friendly personal protective equipment (PPE) and sustainable pharmaceutical practices, including extended medication expiry dates.

Recommendations:

Industry-Healthcare Collaborative Efforts: Encouraging cooperation between the healthcare sector and industry to foster innovative and sustainable healthcare solutions is recommended. This could involve joint research, development of eco-friendly products, and sharing sustainable practices.
Enhancing Awareness and Education: There is a need to increase awareness and education about sustainable practices among healthcare professionals and the general public. This involves understanding the environmental impacts of healthcare and strategies to mitigate them.
Sustainable Procurement Policies: The panel advocates for sustainable procurement policies within healthcare institutions. Prioritizing environmentally friendly products and services in healthcare supply chains is seen as a key step in this direction.
Global Access to Sustainable Healthcare: Expanding sustainable healthcare practices globally, especially in remote and underserved regions, is crucial. This involves making sustainable healthcare solutions accessible and adaptable to various populations.
Investing in Research and Innovation: Continuous research and innovation in sustainable healthcare are necessary. This includes developing technologies and practices that not only reduce the environmental impact of healthcare but also enhance patient care.

* Panel summary generated by OLGOO.com

Panel 631

A Vision for Permafrost Knowledge in Canada: From Strategy to Action

ENG CSPC2023 Panels - S19a - 631 - Symposium Indigenous North Mo

Organized by: Arctic Initiative, Belfer Center Harvard Kennedy School
Speakers:
Dr. Janet King
John Holdren
Marc D’Iorio
Sara Brown
Stephan Gruber
Panel Date: November 13th, 2023

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Panel Abstract:
Canada is in a climate crisis and its north is warming fast, changing permafrost, that literally supports northern people, communities, and infrastructure and that sustains traditional lifestyles and interlinked ecosystems. Permafrost thaw is also amplifying climate change as it releases more greenhouse gases. Yet capacity, research, data, services, and informed risk assessment remain limited and somewhat fragmented. Is a national strategy required to address permafrost change? If so, what would such a strategy look like? This panel will stimulate discussion on the competing priorities and considerations of Canada learning to live with and prepare for permafrost change.

Summary of Conversations:
The panelists emphasized the need for greater collaboration and coordination across different groups and knowledge systems to address the emerging threat of permafrost thaw in Canada. Speakers highlighted the importance of including indigenous voices and community perspectives to ensure local needs are incorporated. There was agreement on principles like co-development of knowledge and open data sharing to increase capacity. Ongoing projects aimed at convening diverse stakeholders, monitoring changes, conducting research, and providing policy advice were outlined as important pathways forward. However, speakers acknowledged that more work is required to break down silos, improve partnerships, and develop a unified vision. The overarching theme was that addressing complex permafrost issues requires bringing together diverse expertise and perspectives through new models of knowledge co-production and exchange.

Take Away Messages/ Current Status of the Challenges:

Permafrost thaw is an emerging issue affecting many groups. Collaboration is needed between different knowledge systems to address this shared challenge.
Including community voices and ensuring issues are defined by communities is important. Work is ongoing on risk-based partnership tables.
Goals of the Permafrost Pathways project include monitoring, research, engagement, and advising policymakers. Collaboration with Canadian partners is critical.
Thawing permafrost presents adaptation challenges and risks of greenhouse gas releases. Coordinated expertise is required following an indigenous science approach.
Suggestions were made to increase capacity, convene stakeholders, and emphasize principles like co-development and open data.
Discussion highlighted ongoing work but more collaboration is still needed going forward.
The panelists represent a diversity of perspectives on addressing permafrost issues.
Overall, the current status indicates progress but many challenges remain regarding coordination, inclusion, policy impacts, and implementing solutions.

Recommendations (or Next Steps):

Convene a national permafrost partnership table with diverse stakeholders to coordinate efforts, set priorities, and develop a national permafrost strategy.
Increase monitoring capacity through expanded networks and new technologies to track permafrost thaw across regions.
Launch targeted research projects on permafrost-climate feedbacks, infrastructure risks, and adaptation options.
Develop risk assessments for vulnerable northern communities and infrastructure in collaboration with local groups.
Create knowledge sharing networks for researchers, policymakers, indigenous groups and industry to collaborate.
Follow principles of co-development of research projects with local and indigenous partners.
Support capacity building and training initiatives to expand expertise on permafrost issues across sectors.
Advise policymakers at all levels on evidence-based actions to address permafrost thaw through scientific briefings.
Promote open access data sharing to maximize use of monitoring and research findings.
Expand public engagement efforts to increase awareness and participation on permafrost issues.
Provide funding opportunities for priority research gaps and adaptation measures on permafrost impacts.

* Panel summary generated by OLGOO.com

Panel 603

Retreating from risk: Building flood resiliency through community-led managed retreat programs

ENG CSPC2023 Panels - S20a - 603 - Symposium Resilient Communiti

Organized by: University of Waterloo
Speakers:
Dr. Brent Doberstein
Melissa Le Geyt
Rachel Isacoff
Shaieree Cottar
Panel Date: November 13th, 2023

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Panel Abstract:
Climate-induced displacement is already a reality for many. Managed retreat is a bold adaptation strategy with the potential to shift Canada’s disaster risk management paradigm toward community-led, long-term planning processes that proactively reduce risk. Hear from community leaders, practitioners, policy analysts, and academics about opportunities and challenges for managed retreat programs. Panelists from across Canada and the United States will share their expertise on property buyouts, post-disaster recovery, and flood adaptation. Our aim is to advance policy and best practice for equity-informed and participatory relocation programs through a trans-sectoral and interdisciplinary knowledge exchange.

Summary of Conversations:
The transcripts cover two presentations on managed retreat and equitable relocation of communities vulnerable to flooding and sea level rise. The panel discussed how top-down, technocratic approaches to relocation often fail to center community needs and values, reproducing inequities instead of addressing them. Case studies of the Isle de Charles tribe in Louisiana and buyouts in Staten Island after Hurricane Sandy brought up as examples where equity was not prioritized in the planning process. Redefining success in relocation to focus on community desires were argues as well as lifting up human experiences over technical expertise. A managed retreat program in Grand Forks, Canada after a devastating flood was also discussed. While creative solutions were attempted, challenges arose around insufficient compensation offers based on post-flood property values and delays in the buyout process, highlighting difficulties in implementing equitable managed retreat even with multi-level government funding and planning. Overall, the talks emphasize the need to center community voices, values, and timelines in relocation processes to avoid reproducing historical inequities.

Take Away Messages/ Current Status of the Challenges:

Managed retreat programs require balancing different stakeholders’ values and priorities, which can be challenging. Progress requires examining privileges and centering equity.
Top-down processes often fail to fully consider impacted communities’ needs. Community-driven approaches that listen to residents can better redefine success.
Major flood events can spur development of managed retreat programs, but residents may be disappointed by post-disaster property buyout offers below pre-flood values.
Creative solutions like Grand Forks’ three-way cost sharing agreement between governments can help fund large-scale retreat programs.
Expropriating land for rezoning can be necessary but contentious in retreat programs described as voluntary.
Long delays and uncertainty over buyout offers compound financial and emotional stress for flood-impacted residents.
Canada is still in early stages of implementing major managed retreat programs. Equity, transparency and community engagement remain key challenges.
Climate Migration Networks’ justice principles aim to consciously examine power dynamics and center community voices in relocation processes.

Recommendations (or Next Steps):

Conduct community-led visioning and goal-setting before starting managed retreat to center equity and impacted communities’ values. This allows for a collaborative process.
Assess existing power dynamics and privileges of decision-makers to be conscious of how these may influence the managed retreat process if not addressed.
Develop clear principles of equity, justice, and community empowerment to guide all phases of managed retreat, from planning to implementation and monitoring. These should be co-developed with impacted communities.
Allow sufficient time for impacted residents to consider options, ask questions, and make decisions without undue pressure. Provide case management support and financial counseling.
Establish fair compensation standards ahead of time based on pre-disaster home values and replacement costs. Be transparent about calculation methods and offer appeals.

* Panel summary generated by OLGOO.com

Panel 655

One urban health for resilient, inclusive and innovative cities

ENG CSPC2023 Panels - S21a - 655 - Symposium Resilient Communiti

Organized by: University of Montreal
Speakers:
Cécile Aenishaenslin
Christina Lawand
Dr. Melanie Rock
Dr. Trevor Hancock
Evelyne de Leeuw
Sébastien Lord
Panel Date: November 13th, 2023

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Panel Abstract:
The health of ecosystems, humans and animals is intricately connected; this is one lesson the COVID-19 pandemic continues to teach us. A One Health approach brings new solutions, particularly in urban environments, to climate change, biodiversity crisis, food insecurity, inequalities, environmental and social injustice, pollution and contamination of ecosystems, zoonoses, antimicrobial resistance, and challenges to mental health and well-being. The complexity of these challenges requires a transdisciplinary, comprehensive, collaborative and systemic One Urban Health approach to meet the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. This panel will be an opportunity to discuss how The “Healthy Cities” social movement aiming at urban equity, empowerment, resilience and joint (intersectoral) governance, policy and action will be further enhanced with a systemic One Health approach. The transdisciplinary challenges to science (policy) that are associated with such a gaze will be explored.

Summary of Conversations:
The panelists emphasize the urgent need for a “”One Health”” approach that achieves balance between human, animal, and environmental wellbeing through cross-sectoral collaboration. They argue that current governance is failing to adequately address existential threats like climate change that exceed planetary boundaries. The discussion highlights the importance of connecting diverse disciplines, cosmologies and stakeholders to develop sustainability solutions, including integrating indigenous perspectives on humans’ role in nature into urban planning. Challenges around urban walkability and access to nature are raised. The panel advocates breaking down silos between disciplines in research, professions and governance to enable transdisciplinary approaches to complex issues like ecological injustice. Overall, the panel argues for refocusing governance around long-term sustainability, future generations and ecological limits by utilizing One Health frameworks, tools and perspectives.

Take Away Messages/ Current Status of the Challenges:

One health focuses on achieving balance between human, animal, and ecosystem health through cross-sectoral collaboration.
Climate change and exceeding planetary boundaries are urgent existential threats that societies and governments are not adequately addressing.
There is a need to refocus governance around sustainability and future generations within ecological limits.
Diverse disciplines and cosmologies should inform governance approaches. Urban planning should connect to indigenous perspectives.
Ensuring walkability and access to nature in cities is challenging.
Tools are needed to evaluate the “”one health-ness”” of programs and policies to identify areas for cross-sectoral collaboration.
Transdisciplinary research is needed on issues like ecological injustice and real-world toxic exposures.
Silos between disciplines in universities, professions and governance must be broken down to solve complex problems.

Recommendations (or Next Steps):

Here are 5 key recommendations/next steps based on the discussion in bullet point format, each 2-3 sentences long, totaling 200 words:
Conduct transdisciplinary research that brings together insights across sectors and disciplines to address complex sustainability challenges like ecological injustice and real-world toxic exposures.
Reform higher education and professional training programs to break down silos, ensuring students develop literacy in multiple disciplines relevant to sustainability.
Develop new governance approaches that consider diverse worldviews and integrate indigenous perspectives on human-nature balance into policymaking.
Create quantitative and qualitative tools to evaluate the “”one health-ness”” of policies and programs, identifying gaps and opportunities to strengthen cross-sectoral collaboration.
Convene diverse stakeholders from different backgrounds in ongoing dialogues to build shared understanding and spark innovative solutions to sustainability challenges.

* Panel summary generated by OLGOO.com

Luncheon Talk

given by Associate Deputy Minister Francis Bilodeau

English
French

Organized by: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
Panel Date: November 14th, 2023
Speaker:
Francis Bilodeau

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Summary of Conversations:
Parliamentary Secretary Ryan Turnbull gives a video message conveying the Canadian government’s support for science and innovation through significant investments in research, new strategies, and international collaboration. Associate Deputy Minister Francis Bilodeau then speaks about how Canada is positioned as a leader in AI, quantum technologies, and biomanufacturing. He highlights Canada’s strengths in AI research talent and adoption of a national AI strategy. On quantum, he outlines the National Quantum Strategy’s goals to make Canada a world leader through investments in quantum computing, communications, and sensing. Finally, he describes the biomanufacturing and life sciences strategy launched in response to COVID-19, including investments in vaccine production facilities, research, and talent development to strengthen Canada’s biopharma sector. Overall, the speeches emphasize the Canadian government’s commitment to supporting science, emerging technologies, and domestic manufacturing capabilities.

Take Away Messages/ Current Status of the Challenges:

The Canadian government has invested over $16 billion since 2016 to support the research community and ensure funding is utilized effectively.
Independent experts were commissioned to review the federal research support system.
Key strategies have been launched including the Digital Research Infrastructure Strategy, the Pan-Canadian AI Strategy, the National Quantum Strategy, and an upcoming Canadian Genomics Strategy. These aim to leverage Canadian strengths in cutting-edge fields.
The government sees opportunities for Canadian science leadership in areas like clean technologies, biomanufacturing for health emergencies, and emerging technologies. Research security is a priority given the evolving geopolitical context.
Canada has strengths in AI research but lags in AI adoption by businesses. All stakeholders have a role in seizing the AI opportunity while mitigating risks and harms.
Proposed AI regulations aim to build trust while avoiding stifling innovation. Efforts are underway to coordinate AI policies internationally.
Quantum computing holds potential for commercialization and economic benefits. Over $1 billion has been invested since 2012 in quantum research at universities and companies.
A National Quantum Strategy was launched to make Canada a world leader in quantum computing hardware, software and applications.
Biomanufacturing investments are building vaccine and drug production capacity in Canada to safeguard against future health emergencies. Investments span talent development, research, testing, and commercialization.

Recommendations (or Next Steps):

Continue investing in and supporting fundamental AI research at Canadian universities to maintain Canada’s strength and talent pool in this field.
Collaborate with industry to increase AI adoption.
Implement guardrails and frameworks through legislation like the Artificial Intelligence and Data Act to build trust and mitigate risks of AI while avoiding stifling innovation. Continue coordinating AI policies internationally.
Capitalize on Canada’s competitive advantage in quantum computing by increasing investments and derisking technology development. Implement the 3 key missions of the National Quantum Strategy focused on quantum computing hardware/software, cybersecurity, and early adoption.
Increase domestic biomanufacturing capacity and production of vaccines and critical medicines in Canada through the Biomanufacturing and Life Sciences
Strategy. Support growth across the biopharma sector.
Foster collaboration, dialogue and idea exchange between government, academia, industry and the research community on policy and support for science and technology.

* Panel summary generated by OLGOO.com

Panel 645

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Delivering Precision Medicine of the Future

ENG CSPC2023 Panels - 25a - 645 Monday, November 13th 2:30pm - 4

Organized by: CGEn
Panel Date: November 13th, 2023
Speakers:
Dr. Devin Singh
Dr. Tracie Risling
Fanny Sie
Naveed Aziz

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Panel Abstract:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize healthcare; improving patient outcomes, enhancing clinical decision-making, and reducing costs. However, as with any new technology, its opportunities and challenges must be contemplated. This panel will specifically focus on AI’s impact on Precision Medicine (PM), including obstacles to integrating AI in healthcare and the associated ethical and regulatory considerations. Importantly, the expert panel will address the potential impact of AI regarding healthcare access and how AI may or may not support equity for marginalized communities.

Summary of Conversations:
The panel explored opportunities and challenges surrounding the use of artificial intelligence in precision medicine. A central theme was building trust with patients and practitioners through thoughtful engagement, consent processes, and transparency around AI limitations. The group acknowledged concerns around data privacy, informed consent, and liability if AI models make incorrect recommendations. However, they agreed Canada has an opportunity to take a leadership role by learning from other jurisdictions and implementing policies that balance innovation, safety, and privacy. Core principles like ongoing consent, youth and family engagement, and co-design were highlighted as ways to ethically scale AI adoption in clinical settings. Overall, the panelists were optimistic about the potential for AI to enable more personalized care but emphasized that thoughtful implementation and open dialogue around risks and limitations will be critical for creating trustworthy systems centered on patient needs.

Take Away Messages/ Current Status of the Challenges:

AI holds promise for improving healthcare but faces challenges around trust, transparency, and explainability. More engagement is needed to understand patient and practitioner preferences.
Informed consent for AI tools is complex when data is continuously collected. Ongoing engagement rather than one-time consent may build more trust.
Liability and accountability with AI remain unclear, especially if physicians don’t fully understand model limitations. Policy approaches are needed to clarify responsibility.
Privacy and data sharing regulations vary globally. Canada can learn from policies in other jurisdictions while upholding ethical principles.
Co-design and participatory methods engaging patients, families, and practitioners early on can help scale ethical AI solutions.
Consumer health devices collecting personal data pose informed consent challenges. Transparency around how data will be used is critical.
AI education for practitioners and the public is essential so people understand benefits, risks, and limitations. This facilitates information exchange.
Regulation will need to balance safety, privacy, and streamlining to support innovation in ethical AI for healthcare. Ongoing policy evaluation is important.

Recommendations (or Next Steps):

Develop policies and regulations that balance innovation and responsible AI use, learning from approaches in other jurisdictions. Update liability laws to clarify responsibilities when AI tools are involved.
Build trust through ongoing engagement and co-design with patients, families, and practitioners. Seek input on preferences and values to shape development.
Educate healthcare providers on AI capabilities, limitations, and ethical implementation into clinical workflows. Ensure they can critically evaluate AI validity and feel comfortable using tools.
Create resources on AI best practices for informed consent, including guidelines for consumer device data collection. Highlight importance of consent as an ongoing process.
Convene cross-sector partnerships between industry, hospitals, academics, ethicists, and government to share knowledge and align on priorities.
Implement inclusive broadband access, digital literacy programs, and training to increase capacity for AI adoption across populations.
Develop testing infrastructure and access to high-quality, representative data sets to drive innovation and evaluate model safety.
Incorporate youth perspectives through activities like ethics councils. Engage families and communities to understand preferences.
Publish real-world evidence on AI validation and impact on outcomes over time to build confidence. Be transparent about limitations.
Fund research on AI interpretability and explainability to clinicians and patients. Explore interactive interfaces.

* Panel summary generated by OLGOO.com

Panel 685

Technologies to translate food policy into sustainable food production: National and regional perspectives on partnerships to ensure Canada’s food security

ENG CSPC2023 Panels - 26a - 685 - Monday, November 13th 2:30pm -

Organized by: National Research Council of Canada
Speakers:
Adam Picard-Jourdain
David Natcher
Dr. Lakshmi Krishnan
Emily Nanne
LN Saint-Jacques (il.elle.they.them)
Richard Giunta
Panel Date: November 13th, 2023

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Panel Abstract:
Sustainably increasing the self-sufficiency of food production in Canada requires both new technologies and new partnerships from development through ongoing operations. This translation of ideas into applied solutions for food security requires new models for collaboration across all facets of government, private sector, and industry. A previous CSPC panel (2022) identified promising emerging technologies for regional food production that were best positioned to respond to both global drivers and uniquely Canadian needs. The current panel will explore near-term investment priorities in Canadian-led innovation and discuss practical approaches for developing and implementing the infrastructure for these more localized food production technologies.

Summary of Conversations:
The panelists engaged in a thoughtful discussion around strategies for translating agricultural research and innovation into inclusive, sustainable food production systems. A core theme was the importance of community-centered design and ensuring solutions are tailored to the needs of end users, whether small-scale urban farmers or remote northern communities. The panelists emphasized the challenges of adoption and distribution, stressing that successful commercialization requires understanding consumer demand and establishing effective marketing and sales channels. Governance and funding models were also raised as critical for enabling collaborative innovation. Overall, the discussion highlighted the need for an inclusive approach to agricultural technology and food systems transformation that empowers affected communities, supports niche markets and social enterprises, and balances economic and environmental sustainability. The panelists provided diverse perspectives on pathways for developing and scaling solutions to promote food security and sovereignty.

Take Away Messages/ Current Status of the Challenges:

Inclusive innovation and representation is critical projects need input from affected communities at all stages.
Adoption of new technologies on farms can be challenging legacy solutions may work better in some contexts.
Access to on-farm data is an issue data rights and privacy concerns exist.
Distribution through major grocery chains is important for reaching consumers at scale.
Supporting niche products and northern agriculture requires tailored approaches.
Marketing, consumer adoption and social enterprises are needed beyond just developing new technologies.
Governance and funding structures must enable collaborative innovation across sectors.
Leadership and champions are invaluable for driving sustainable projects long-term.

Recommendations (or Next Steps):

Conduct user research with affected communities to understand needs and barriers before developing new technologies. Involve community representatives early and often.
Consider how to distribute and sell new products, not just how to develop them. Work with major retailers or identify alternative distribution models.
Support good governance, leadership and community buy-in for collaborative projects to be sustainable long-term. Provide funding and resources.
Look to successful community economic development models that empower entrepreneurs, like social enterprises in northern communities.
Address adoption challenges for new technologies with training, incentives and transition support for farmers and communities. Improve data access.
Support niche, northern and urban agriculture beyond major commodity crops. Develop policies and programs to help these producers thrive.
Use marketing and consumer education to drive adoption of new technologies and products. Make sustainability and social impact selling points.
Consider projects that follow alternative models beyond traditional markets and growth at all costs. Support cooperatives.
Bring together diverse voices from industry, government, academia and community groups to share knowledge and shape inclusive innovation.
Champion novel projects even if they challenge the status quo. Take measured risks.
Keep the end user and community needs central when developing technologies and policies. Co-design solutions.

* Panel summary generated by OLGOO.com

Panel 654

Urgent and Evolving Roles for Post-Secondary Institutions in Supporting the Transition to Net-Zero: Lessons from the Business Sustainability Field

ENG CSPC2023 Panels - 45a - 654 Tuesday, November 14th 3:30pm -

Organized by: University of Western Ontario
Speakers:
Apala Mukherjee
Dr. Jacquelyn Burkell
Dr. Jean-François Houle
Dr. Tima Bansal
Panel Date: November 14th, 2023

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Panel Abstract:
In this discussion, we will explore how post-secondary institutions in Canada can continue to contribute to our collective and urgent need to achieve net-zero targets. We will use a business sustainability lens – which uses systems thinking to develop solutions that ensure the prosperity of current and future generations – to examine the contributions of post-secondary institutions across three domains: sustainable institutions, sustainable education, and sustainable research. Drawing from expertise in business sustainability, research & innovation, management, and youth-led advocacy, we will provide actionable insights for post-secondary leaders and governments. How can leading initiatives be scaled? What can be learned from the academic field of business sustainability? What research directions and collaborations are needed to support firms and organizations in their green transitions?

Summary of Conversations:
In this panel, the speakers share thoughts on universities’ and organizations’ roles in supporting the net zero transition. Key themes include the need for systems thinking, public-private partnerships, talent development, and research collaboration. Specific examples are discussed like the NRC’s challenge programs, BASF’s university partnerships, and breaking down disciplinary boundaries. The group explores challenges around plastic waste, inconsistent policies, and costs. Other topics include declining business R&D in Canada, the importance of implementation, and quality of life versus being “number one”. The conversation emphasizes the need for ecosystem partnerships, supporting small companies, and accelerating deployment. It closes by stressing the role of individuals in driving systems change on sustainability issues through their organizations and universities.

Take Away Messages/ Current Status of the Challenges:

Plastic waste is a major global challenge that requires collaboration across sectors and consistent policies to enable circular economy solutions.
Partnerships between industry, government, and academia are critical to drive innovation and deploy solutions at scale, but aligning objectives can be difficult.
Virgin plastic is currently cheaper than recycled plastic, so economics need to shift to make circular models viable.
Laws and regulations sometimes unintentionally hamper collaboration needed in complex supply chains.
Universities have an opportunity to take a more interdisciplinary, problem-centered approach to sustainability challenges.
Business R&D and connections between industry/government/academia have declined in Canada in recent years.
Talent, capital, and implementation capabilities are key to advancing sustainability goals.
Focusing on quality of life versus being “number one” and building on Canada’s strengths like resources and diversity can support progress.

Recommendations (or Next Steps):

Develop challenge programs that bring together partners from industry, government, and academia to address key issues like plastic waste through a systems approach. This facilitates collaboration across silos.
Implement consistent policies around recyclable plastics and virgin plastic pricing to support the transition to a circular economy.
Leverage technology like blockchain to track materials and improve transparency in the recycling system.
Adopt a problem-centered approach in universities that involves experts across disciplines to develop holistic solutions.
Listen to industry partners to understand real-world challenges and constraints like deployment timelines.
Remove regulatory burdens and attract investment in talent and capital for sustainability initiatives.
Pick strategic focus areas where Canada can lead globally in sustainable industries.
Prioritize quality of life over rankings as the goal, noting success of many high well-being countries.
Support ecosystem partnerships through industrial research consortiums centered on addressing concrete problems.
Examine legal barriers to collaboration such as competition laws.

* Panel summary generated by OLGOO.com

Panel 906

Reimagining the Canadian Minerals Sector for a Responsible and Equitable Transition to Net-Zero Emissions and Indigenous Reconciliation

ENG CSPC2023 Panels - 60a - 906 - ENG PARTNER Wednesday, Novembe

Organized by: The University of British Columbia
Speakers:
Allen Edzerza
Philippe Tortell
Sara Ghebremusse
Stephen Piercey
Panel Date: November 15th, 2023

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Panel Abstract:
The Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy outlines a plan for Canada to become a leading global supplier of minerals for clean energy, while meeting its carbon reduction targets and commitments to Indigenous sovereignty. The strategy represents an ambitious and inspired vision, but the path towards implementation is far from clear. New, multi-sector and inter-disciplinary approaches are urgently needed to solve the mineral supply challenges of the future, while also supporting Indigenous sovereignty and environmental stewardship. This panel will discuss the key challenges and opportunities ahead, as we seek to develop a new paradigm of Indigenous-led mineral resource development in Canada.

Summary of Conversations:
The panels addresses responsible resource extraction, particularly mining, and its impacts on Indigenous communities in Canada. There is discussion of the complex legal landscape around Indigenous rights and title, including court rulings on the duty to consult versus requiring consent. Examples are given of mining projects where Indigenous nations either granted or withheld consent based on potential impacts to their lands and rights. Challenges around the mining sector’s uncertainty due to evolving Indigenous laws are noted. Technical challenges of resource extraction like lack of trained workers and locating specialty minerals are outlined. The importance of Indigenous education and training is emphasized. There is debate around balancing environmental protections, community wellbeing, and economic benefits of mining. The need for consent and nation to nation relationships for responsible resource development is advocated over mere consultation requirements.

Take Away Messages/ Current Status of the Challenges:

Indigenous rights and title create uncertainty for resource development in Canada. Recent court rulings uphold duty to consult but not full consent.
Complex web of regulations between federal, provincial/territorial, and Indigenous governments. Need for clear processes and requirements.
Definitions of critical minerals differ between jurisdictions. Some key minerals have supply challenges.
Free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) would allow Indigenous groups to ratify or withdraw support for projects impacting their lands. Not yet law in Canada.
Some companies undertake FPIC voluntarily. Need for consistent legally binding FPIC processes.
Technical challenges exist including lack of trained workers, finding deposits, and extracting specialty minerals.
Recommendations to learn from best practices that balance economic benefits and responsible environmental stewardship over the long-term.

Recommendations (or Next Steps):

Governments should legislate free, prior, and informed consent requirements to provide certainty and align with UNDRIP principles. This would establish consistent processes for companies to follow and help build nation-to-nation relationships.
Companies should implement consent processes voluntarily even if not legally required, as social license and community relationships are crucial for successful projects long-term. This involves early and ongoing engagement, not just around project approvals.
More Indigenous-led education and training initiatives are needed in communities, as local capacity and participation are key to gain consent and ensure benefits. Programs could cover mining operations, environmental monitoring, business skills, etc.
Governments must regularly update regulations using best practices that protect communities, environments and economies. Lessons should be learned from failures elsewhere to prevent future issues.
Exploration companies need coordinated approaches when numerous are active in one Indigenous nation’s territory. This ensures proper consent processes at early exploration stages, not just around individual mines.
Nation-to-nation agreements should be pursued to provide certainty on Indigenous rights and title. This would clarify roles and responsibilities around resource development rather than relying on project-by-project processes.

* Panel summary generated by OLGOO.com

2023 Conference – Grand Challenges

Theme: Grand Challenges

Pre-Conference Panels:

Symposiums:

Indigenous/Northern Challenges Symposium

Resilient Communities Symposium

Luncheon Talk:

Conference Panels:

Panel 704

Call to Action – Sustainable Design Leads to Better Science

Organized by: Public Services and Procurement Canada – Canada.ca Speakers: Dr. Annie Levasseur Dr. Ursula Eicker Mr. Duncan Retson Ms. Carol Phillips Ted Kesik Panel Date: October 30th, 2023

Panel 712

A Sustainable Future and the Holistic Approach the Healthcare Industry Needs to Apply

Organized by: ROCHE Panel Date: November 1st, 2023 Speakers: Antonin Caron Dr. Laurette Geldenhuys Gigi Y.C. Wong Jérôme Ribesse Myles Sergeant

Panel 631

A Vision for Permafrost Knowledge in Canada: From Strategy to Action

Organized by: Arctic Initiative, Belfer Center Harvard Kennedy School Speakers: Dr. Janet King John Holdren Marc D’Iorio Sara Brown Stephan Gruber Panel Date: November 13th, 2023

Panel 603

Retreating from risk: Building flood resiliency through community-led managed retreat programs

Organized by: University of Waterloo Speakers: Dr. Brent Doberstein Melissa Le Geyt Rachel Isacoff Shaieree Cottar Panel Date: November 13th, 2023

Panel 655

One urban health for resilient, inclusive and innovative cities

Organized by: University of Montreal Speakers: Cécile Aenishaenslin Christina Lawand Dr. Melanie Rock Dr. Trevor Hancock Evelyne de Leeuw Sébastien Lord Panel Date: November 13th, 2023

Luncheon Talk

given by Associate Deputy Minister Francis Bilodeau

English

French

Panel 645

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Delivering Precision Medicine of the Future

Organized by: CGEnPanel Date: November 13th, 2023Speakers:Dr. Devin SinghDr. Tracie RislingFanny SieNaveed Aziz

Panel 685

Technologies to translate food policy into sustainable food production: National and regional perspectives on partnerships to ensure Canada’s food security

Organized by: National Research Council of Canada Speakers: Adam Picard-Jourdain David Natcher Dr. Lakshmi Krishnan Emily Nanne LN Saint-Jacques (il.elle.they.them) Richard Giunta Panel Date: November 13th, 2023

Panel 654

Urgent and Evolving Roles for Post-Secondary Institutions in Supporting the Transition to Net-Zero: Lessons from the Business Sustainability Field

Organized by: University of Western Ontario Speakers: Apala Mukherjee Dr. Jacquelyn Burkell Dr. Jean-François Houle Dr. Tima Bansal Panel Date: November 14th, 2023

Panel 906

Reimagining the Canadian Minerals Sector for a Responsible and Equitable Transition to Net-Zero Emissions and Indigenous Reconciliation

Organized by: The University of British Columbia Speakers: Allen Edzerza Philippe Tortell Sara Ghebremusse Stephen Piercey Panel Date: November 15th, 2023

Organized by: Public Services and Procurement Canada – Canada.ca
Speakers:
Dr. Annie Levasseur
Dr. Ursula Eicker
Mr. Duncan Retson
Ms. Carol Phillips
Ted Kesik
Panel Date: October 30th, 2023

Organized by: ROCHE
Panel Date: November 1st, 2023
Speakers:
Antonin Caron
Dr. Laurette Geldenhuys
Gigi Y.C. Wong
Jérôme Ribesse
Myles Sergeant

Organized by: Arctic Initiative, Belfer Center Harvard Kennedy School
Speakers:
Dr. Janet King
John Holdren
Marc D’Iorio
Sara Brown
Stephan Gruber
Panel Date: November 13th, 2023

Organized by: University of Waterloo
Speakers:
Dr. Brent Doberstein
Melissa Le Geyt
Rachel Isacoff
Shaieree Cottar
Panel Date: November 13th, 2023

Organized by: University of Montreal
Speakers:
Cécile Aenishaenslin
Christina Lawand
Dr. Melanie Rock
Dr. Trevor Hancock
Evelyne de Leeuw
Sébastien Lord
Panel Date: November 13th, 2023

Organized by: CGEn
Panel Date: November 13th, 2023
Speakers:
Dr. Devin Singh
Dr. Tracie Risling
Fanny Sie
Naveed Aziz

Organized by: National Research Council of Canada
Speakers:
Adam Picard-Jourdain
David Natcher
Dr. Lakshmi Krishnan
Emily Nanne
LN Saint-Jacques (il.elle.they.them)
Richard Giunta
Panel Date: November 13th, 2023

Organized by: University of Western Ontario
Speakers:
Apala Mukherjee
Dr. Jacquelyn Burkell
Dr. Jean-François Houle
Dr. Tima Bansal
Panel Date: November 14th, 2023

Organized by: The University of British Columbia
Speakers:
Allen Edzerza
Philippe Tortell
Sara Ghebremusse
Stephen Piercey
Panel Date: November 15th, 2023