Discover the fundamentals of cleantech in Canada. Explore its evolution, key principles, industry categories, job opportunities, and the future of sustainable technology. Join the green revolution with Uvaro's 'Grow with Cleantech' program.
Jun 05, 2024
Cleantech, according to the Canadian government, sounds a bit like this:
“Any good or service designed with the primary purpose of contributing to remediating or preventing any type of environmental damage.” AND “Any good or service that is less polluting or more resource efficient than equivalent normal products that furnish a similar utility.”
Sure, that’s accurate, but it doesn’t exactly spark excitement, does it? At Uvaro, we like to think of cleantech in a more dynamic way—starting with the end first!
Tech: Smart tools that simplify tasks or services, making them more efficient than traditional methods.
Clean: Greener, more sustainable solutions that reduce environmental impact compared to the conventional methods society often relies on.
In essence, cleantech combines technology with eco-friendly practices to enhance efficiency and reduce our environmental footprint.
What WE also take away from both definitions is that Cleantech isn’t just about groundbreaking innovations. It’s about the small, incremental improvements that make traditional methods more efficient and eco-friendly. These small steps, when combined, lead to significant cleaner and greener wins over time.
In this guide, you’ll dive into the foundations of cleantech as an emerging industry, explore its transformative potential, and discover how to position yourself for a successful career in this green sector!
To fully grasp the significance of cleantech today, we must first explore its historical roots. By understanding the evolution of cleantech, we can appreciate its current advancements and future potential.
Let’s take a quick walk down memory lane.
The term "cleantech" emerged in the late 1990s and early 2000s, reflecting a shift towards environmentally sustainable technologies. Its roots, however, can be traced back to the broader environmental movement of the 1960s and 1970s, which highlighted the need for sustainable development and pollution control. The 1970s saw the first wave of environmental regulations and the establishment of agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States.
In the 1980s and 1990s, environmental technology began to evolve, focusing on waste management, recycling, and pollution reduction. However, it wasn't until the early 21st century that cleantech gained significant traction. This period is marked by renewable energy technology, such as solar and wind power, driven by increasing awareness of the human impact on climate change and the need to reduce carbon emissions.
The 2000s witnessed substantial investment in cleantech startups, particularly in Silicon Valley. This era saw innovations in energy efficiency, water treatment, and advanced materials. The financial crisis of 2008 briefly stalled growth, but the sector rebounded as governments worldwide began to implement policies and subsidies to promote clean energy and sustainable technologies.
Today, cleantech encompasses a wide range of technologies aimed at reducing environmental impacts and enhancing sustainability. From renewable energy sources like solar and wind power to innovations in energy efficiency, water treatment, and advanced materials, cleantech is driving the transition to a more sustainable future. This sector continues to grow, propelled by technological advancements, increasing consumer demand for green products, and policy support aimed at mitigating climate change.
But what does the future of cleantech hold, especially in Canada? Let’s look ahead with three compelling stats that paint a clear and promising picture:
At Uvaro, we’re committed to empowering individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the cleantech industry. Our programs such as our ‘Grow with Cleantech’ program are designed to prepare you for the exciting opportunities that lie ahead, ensuring you can contribute to and benefit from this rapidly evolving sector.
Cleantech is centered around technologies and processes that improve environmental performance and efficiency. Its key principles include:
Sustainability: At its core, cleantech aims to create sustainable systems, minimizing the depletion of natural resources and ensuring that environmental impacts are kept within limits that do not harm future generations.
Resource Efficiency: Cleantech emphasizes the efficient use of resources, including energy, water, and raw materials. This involves maximizing the output or utility obtained from a given set of inputs, thereby reducing waste and pollution.
Renewable Energy: A significant focus of cleantech is the development and deployment of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydro, and biomass. These sources are 'inexhaustible' and produce little to no greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels.
Pollution Reduction: Cleantech technologies aim to reduce pollutants released into the air, water, and soil. This includes technologies for cleaner production processes, emission controls, and waste management.
Innovation and Technology: Cleantech is driven by innovation, with advancements in materials science, information technology, and biotechnology playing crucial roles. Innovations in these fields lead to the development of new products and processes that are cleaner and more efficient.
By understanding and applying these principles, we can create a more sustainable and efficient future. Embracing cleantech means not only adopting groundbreaking innovations but also making incremental improvements that collectively lead to significant environmental benefits.
The cleantech industry in Canada is composed of several sub-industries, encompassing a wide range of technologies and practices aimed at improving environmental performance and sustainability. The Canadian government identifies several key sub sectors within cleantech, each presenting growing opportunities for new companies, roles, and careers for those interested in joining this expanding field.
Here are some of the different sub-industries and niches within cleantech:
All these sub-industries require two main types of training:
By ensuring the cleantech workforce has access to both specialized and general training, we can equip individuals with the comprehensive skill set needed to excel in the diverse and dynamic field of cleantech.
This guide is not here to argue about climate change and the politics associated with that conversation. It is here to showcase the importance of cleantech and its role in our future, simply by comparing its advantages to conventional methods. On top of cleantech now performing many functions better than traditional counterparts, we also see the following benefits:
Environmental Impact
Economic Benefits
Social Benefits
Cleantech isn’t just about protecting the environment; it’s about building a stronger economy and fostering healthier, more resilient communities. Embracing cleantech means committing to a future where environmental, economic, and social well-being are intertwined, ensuring a sustainable legacy for generations to come.
The shift towards sustainability isn’t just for consumers. It’s becoming a smart move for businesses as well. From small acts like changing light bulbs to overhauling supply chains, the move to sustainable business practices isn’t performative. It’s good business. And if you're not considering making these changes, it can open you to additional costs, maintenance, and operating expenses.
We will attempt to show through a few case studies the importance of shifting your business mindset towards sustainability from small-scale changes to large-scale overhauls.
Cost Savings
Operational Efficiency
Risk Mitigation Meets Regulatory Compliance
Competitive Advantage
Access to Incentives
Long-Term Sustainability
Adopting cleantech is not just about being green; it’s about creating stronger, more sustainable businesses that don’t have to pay for ongoing fees when a renewable solution might be available.
As we’ve seen above—the solutions available today can save money, enhance operational efficiency, mitigate risks, and provide a competitive edge. In a world where sustainability is increasingly linked to profitability, investing in cleantech is a strategic move that can ensure your business’s long-term success and viability. Don’t let outdated practices cost your business—explore cleantech solutions now and start reaping the benefits!
In the 2024 Canadian Budget - Fairness For Every Generation, the federal government outlines its comprehensive strategy to achieve a net-zero economy. This strategy is built around four key components:
Focuses on specific programs that support the development and implementation of cleantech. These initiatives are designed to drive innovation and growth within the cleantech sector.
Leverages financial instruments and partnerships to attract private investment into cleantech. This creates a supportive financial environment to scale up operations and stimulate economic growth.
Offers tax incentives to businesses investing in cleantech. These credits reduce the financial burden on companies, encouraging significant investments in areas like carbon capture and clean energy production.
Implements pollution pricing and establishes a regulatory framework to ensure businesses internalize environmental costs. This creates financial incentives for emission reductions and sets clear standards to achieve net-zero targets.
Together, these components form a cohesive strategy that drives Canada’s transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy. The targeted programming fosters innovation, strategic finance attracts necessary investments, investment tax credits reduce financial barriers, and pollution pricing coupled with regulation ensures environmental accountability. This integrated approach not only promotes long-term economic growth but also reinforces Canada’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
Canada is home to numerous leading cleantech companies making significant strides in sustainability. Here are a few notable examples, organized by sub-industry:
These companies highlight the impactful work being done in Canada’s cleantech sector, reflecting the country’s dedication to a sustainable and prosperous future.
Additionally, Canada is home to several notable up-and-coming cleantech companies that are gaining international recognition. Canadian companies that made the Global Cleantech 100 in 2023 include Carbon Upcycling, Cyclic Materials, Eavor, e-Zinc, Genecis, Ionomr Innovations, Mangrove Lithium, MineSense, Moment Energy, Pani, pH7 Technologies, Summit Nanotech, and Svante. These companies are making waves with innovative solutions that promise to further propel Canada’s leadership in the cleantech industry.
The cleantech industry in Canada is rapidly expanding, driven by increasing global demand for sustainable solutions. Canada’s commitment, especially since 2012, to reducing carbon emissions and building towards a green net-zero economy, has been a significant driver.
Driven by technological advances, we are seeing certain positions in the cleantech field grow at an alarming rate to keep up with demand. Government mandates and a shift toward renewable and more cost-friendly clean solutions have created a gap in the workforce that needs to be filled. This is exemplified by these four positions and their growth rates.
One of the most exciting aspects of the cleantech industry is that many rewarding careers do not require a traditional four-year degree. Here are a few options:
Salary Range: $50,000 - $70,000/year
Overview: Sustainability analysts are crucial in ensuring that companies adhere to environmental regulations and promote sustainable practices. These professionals oversee workplace health, safety, and environmental programs, leveraging new technologies to improve compliance and efficiency. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 6% growth for environmental specialists (including sustainability analysts) between 2022 and 2032, which is double the average growth rate for all occupations. Moreover, sustainability analyst was among the top 5 fastest-growing job roles on LinkedIn between 2018-2022, with an average annual growth rate of 45%. WOW!
Salary Range: $55,000 - $75,000/year
Overview: Energy analysts play a pivotal role in optimizing energy use and promoting efficiency. They analyze energy consumption data, recommend cost-saving measures, and develop strategies to reduce carbon footprints. The renewable energy sector has seen explosive growth, with employment in renewable energy reaching 13.7 million jobs in 2022, nearly doubling from 7.3 million in 2012. This growth is largely due to the global shift towards decarbonization and clean energy, which has created a surge in demand for skilled professionals, including energy analysts.
Salary Range: $45,000 - $65,000/year
Overview: Sales representatives in the cleantech sector are responsible for promoting and selling sustainable products and services. These roles are essential in bridging the gap between innovative technologies and the market. Customer-facing roles often involve educating clients about the benefits of cleantech solutions and assisting them in making informed decisions. According to a 2022 cleantech industry survey, 36% of cleantech companies in Canada reported sales as a critical need to scale their businesses.
Salary Range: $45,000 - $60,000/year
Overview: Facility managers ensure that buildings operate efficiently and sustainably. They oversee the maintenance of physical infrastructure, implement energy-saving measures, and ensure compliance with environmental standards. Employment in facilities management is projected to grow at a rate of 7% from 2021 to 2031, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to result in an average of 31,900 new job openings each year, primarily due to the need to replace workers who retire or leave the workforce. Additionally, North America is the fastest-growing region in the global facility management industry, driven by the adoption of new and emerging technologies and a strong financial position.
With more governments and corporations committing to sustainability goals, the demand for skilled cleantech professionals is set to skyrocket. According to the Boston Consulting Group (BCG), there will be a green skills gap of 7 million workers by 2030, particularly in solar, wind, and biofuels technologies. This aligns with LinkedIn’s research showing that the global green hiring rate peaked at 24% above the overall market rate, but only 1 in 8 workers globally possess the green skills necessary for this transition—a stat that is validated by what employers are saying on their end.
Many companies struggle to find qualified candidates for crucial roles, particularly in Canada. A report from Canada’s Future Skills Center revealed that 77% of cleantech employers found value in training that integrates a cleantech perspective into common workforce skills or educates workers on how their existing skills apply to the sector. This indicates a substantial opportunity for adaptable job seekers.
With the cleantech sector in Canada expected to grow by up to 50% by 2030, the shortage of skilled talent is a significant barrier to growth. Entering this field now positions you at the forefront of a green revolution, helping to build a sustainable future. Whether you’re changing careers or starting fresh, the cleantech industry offers a promising and impactful career path.
The cleantech industry holds immense promise, but it also faces several significant challenges that must be addressed to ensure sustainable growth and success.
High Initial Costs: Cleantech projects often require substantial upfront investments, posing a barrier for startups and small businesses. The need for large capital outlays can deter new entrants and slow the pace of innovation.
Funding Gaps: Consistent funding for research, development, and commercialization remains a challenge. While there is growing interest in cleantech, securing reliable and sustained financial support is crucial for long-term success.
Complex Regulations: Navigating regulatory landscapes can be complex and time-consuming, hindering innovation and technology deployment. Companies often face challenges in complying with diverse and sometimes conflicting regulations.
Policy Uncertainty: Inconsistent policies and regulatory frameworks create uncertainty, discouraging long-term planning and investment. Clear and stable policy directions are essential to foster confidence and encourage growth in the sector.
Workforce Shortages: There is a growing demand for skilled professionals, including engineers, technicians, and specialists in emerging technologies. This demand outpaces the current supply, creating a critical shortage.
Training and Education: Investment in education and training programs is crucial to develop and maintain a skilled workforce. Effective training initiatives can help bridge the skills gap and prepare workers for the demands of the cleantech sector.
To address the skills gap in the cleantech industry, several major training programs have been established by the Canadian government:
Upskill for Industry Initiative: This initiative focuses on providing targeted training to develop the specific skills required in various industrial sectors, including cleantech. It aims to equip workers with the expertise needed to thrive in evolving job markets.
Sustainable Jobs Training Fund: This fund supports education and training programs that prepare individuals for careers in sustainable and green industries. It provides resources to help workers transition from traditional roles to those in renewable energy and other cleantech fields.
These programs are designed to help the workforce meet the needs of a net-zero economy. However, more must be done. These programs alone won’t meet the demand and bridge the gap. From EVs to carbon finance, we are starting to notice a shortage of skills, and as a collective, we must find a way to solve this.
Our Grow with Cleantech program, in partnership with Boundless Accelerator, is our part in participating in that solution. This subsidized program is designed to help individuals land or get promoted in the cleantech industry. Funded by the Upskill for Industry Initiative mentioned above, this program offers members 12 months of comprehensive support and training tailored to the demands of the cleantech sector.
Program Highlights:
By participating in the Grow with Cleantech program, you can position yourself at the forefront of the green revolution, equipped with the skills and support needed to succeed in this dynamic and impactful industry. Learn more about this subsidized program and how you can challenge tradition, and reimagine your career while making an impact in cleantech.
As we've explored, cleantech is not just about groundbreaking innovations—it's about making our world more sustainable through incremental, eco-friendly improvements. From its origins in environmental movements to its current role in transforming industries, cleantech careers offer opportunities for innovation, economic growth, and environmental stewardship.
By understanding the principles and categories of cleantech, recognizing the growing roles within this industry, and acknowledging the challenges we must overcome, you're now better equipped to navigate this dynamic field. Whether you want to start or advance your career, the cleantech sector promises a future filled with impactful work and exciting growth.
If you're ready to take the next step and actively participate in this green revolution, consider joining our Grow with Cleantech program. This comprehensive, employer-driven training initiative will provide you with the specialized skills and support you need to succeed in cleantech. Challenge tradition, reimagine your career, and make a lasting impact in the cleantech industry.
Learn more about the Grow with Cleantech program and take the first step toward a sustainable and prosperous future.