Energy
Stop downgrading the role of Parliament
TORONTO—Our democratic system is in trouble, with MPs seen as out of touch with public needs and ineffective in dealing with public problems. One reason for this is the downgrading of the role of Parliament itself and the diminished role of individual MPs in shaping legislation or holding governments accountable. If we want to restore […]
A simple Canadian mechanism for cleantech just might save the world
A little-known policy turned Canada into a mining powerhouse and is now poised to do the same for cleantech. The global transition to a low-carbon reality is a mammoth economic opportunity for Canada. Canada’s clean technology companies are well-positioned to compete and win in the global market for climate solutions. But to seize this opportunity, […]
Here’s how to start the national effort on cybersecurity
I’ve worked in cybersecurity for most of my professional life. What’s concerning to me is how we’ve come to accept cyberattacks as just an inconvenient fact of life. Many now see the risk of a damaging hack much like the weather or the economy: something to be concerned about, to be sure, but unlikely to […]
The Canadian mandate: data governance for economic prosperity
The ministerial mandate letters are clear: there is a need to establish a new set of online rights focused on data use for Canadians. Three ministers in particular are charged with the main task of co-ordinating these new rights: innovation, science, and industry; heritage; and justice. Why such a focus on data? Simply put, there […]
‘Data, privacy, trade’: ministers tasked with AI file contending with fast, fundamental changes
From new ice forecasting techniques that help improve shipping safety in northern waters, to new tools involved with the reclamation of ancient Indigenous languages, to social media “chatbots” that respond to general questions about immigration and citizenship, the Canadian government is increasingly turning toward automated tools to solve tough problems, improve predictions, and cut down […]
Agricultural innovation critical for industry and government to address climate change
In the global discussion on climate change, agricultural innovation is a vital part of the solution. But in the public discourse to date, agriculture is often portrayed as a major cause, as opposed to part of the solution, when it comes to addressing the challenges posed by climate change. To be sure, agriculture and its […]
How businesses can narrow the innovation gap in an AI-driven digital economy
Canada is pushing the new digital frontiers with cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) research. Signs of an unfolding AI-driven digital economy can be seen almost everywhere: from lively labs and hubs with deep-learning researchers and high-tech startups in Toronto, Montréal, and other places, to the growing concentration of animated commentators, data scientists, venture capitalists, and global […]
Regional innovation hubs: an untapped potential for Canada
Canada is a strong nation with a diverse population located in a broad span of regions. Whether geographically, economically, or culturally linked, urban or rural, large or small, each of these regions plays a vital role in our identity, our economy, and the well-being of our communities. This country has seen many innovation success stories […]
Can innovation save our automotive industry?
Since 2015, the Trudeau Liberals have touted “innovation” as the way forward for Canadian industries. Many, from manufacturing, to services, and natural resources, are showing impressive results by embracing innovation. But it is not clear that the Trudeau government’s policies, like the Innovation Superclusters Initiative, are really making a difference on the ground. When we […]
