Areas of Expertise
Alberta's environmental sector is helping to preserve the province's natural environment. The sector has become well known for its expertise in:
Climate change solutions… The Alberta Energy Research Institute is responsible for energy-related research in Alberta and works with government and industry to promote innovation and technology in the energy sector. The strategy focuses on increased funding for the development and implementation of greenhouse gas related technologies.
Recycling… Alberta's environment sector actively encourages recycling. Some specialized initiatives include recycling programs covering plastics, electronics and tires.
Remediation… Alberta's environment sector is restoring land and water, making these natural resources clean, safe and usable. High levels of drilling and production in the oil and gas industry require a wide range of environmental products and services.
Waste Management… Edmonton Waste Management Centre of Excellence (EWMCE) is a non-profit corporation established to meet solid waste and wastewater challenges worldwide. The Centre is a collaborative hub for innovative research, technology development and training.
Water Treatment… Municipal infrastructure is expanding rapidly to meet the surging economic and population growth in the province. Large investment in oil sands mining will require increased water treatment.
Award Winning Companies
Alberta-based companies are also winning awards due to their innovation and leading edge technologies. The Alberta Emerald Foundation (AEF) recognizes environmental leadership in Alberta, and awards Alberta companies that demonstrate innovations in environmental education and management.
Examples of AEF award winning firms include:
- Calibre Environmental Ltd.
In 2006, Calibre Environmental Limited of Calgary received an Emerald Award in the category of small business for recycling industrial and commercial paint.
- Katch Kan™
In 2005, Katch Kan™ of Edmonton received an Emerald Award in the category of small business for the Zero Spill System™ (ZSS), an on-site fluid control and containment system for oil and gas rigs.
- Active Environmental Services
In 2004, Active Environmental Services received an Emerald Award in the category of small business for its efforts in mitigating environmental impact when conducting seismic exploration programs.
- Mariah Energy Corporation
In 2003, Mariah Energy Corporation received an Emerald Award in the category of small business for the development of the Heat PlusPower™ System, a small-scale Clean Heat and Power (CHP) optimization for improved energy efficiency and reduced emissions.
- Vision Quest Windelectric
In 2002, Vision Quest Windelectric (now TransAlta Wind) received an Emerald Award in the category of small business for the Ride the Wind!™ project, in which the City of Calgary switched to wind generated electricity to power its C-Train public transportation system.
For a complete list of past Emerald Award recipients, visit:
