“I believe in the power of innovation and creativity as positive forces that can be harnessed to tackle economic and environmental challenges. By promoting a sustainable future and a thriving economy, the University of British Columbia Okanagan is aligning this project with the priorities of the Government of Canada. Together, we are showing our commitment to a country that provides opportunities and economic benefits to Canadians, while also ensuring the development of technologies that will lead to a cleaner, greener environment for future generations.”

– The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for Western Economic Diversification Canada

“We are delighted that funding from Western Economic Diversification Canada will enable the creation of a new cleantech hub at the University of British Columbia Okanagan. Our engineering researchers have established cutting-edge procedures for recovering and reusing carbon-based materials that would otherwise be discarded and creation of this new hub will allow us to accelerate work in this area, scale our partnerships with industry, and create technical training opportunities that will accelerate transition to a greener economy.”

– Dr. Phil Barker, Vice-Principal and Associate Vice-President, Research and Innovation, University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus

“This project will promote innovation in British Columbia and also support the creation of jobs that are inclusive to women, youth and Indigenous peoples. The project team will also engage with Indigenous scholars within the School of Engineering to develop culturally safe strategies for recruitment and retention of Indigenous students and for outreach into local communities.“

– Dr. Rehan Sadiq, Executive Associate Dean, School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus