SATURDAY, JUNE 22, 2024
"The Path to the Future of Decarbonization"
Panelists: Peter Van Dyck, Turner & Townsend | Gordon Bourque, Akonovia | Kyle Goehring, Turner & Townsend | Kathy Seli, Green Standards
Presentation Abstract:
The path to the future of decarbonization is the power of intelligence.

Data shows buildings particularly are heading in the wrong direction to achieve Net Zero by 2050. This is a combined result of new construction adding to the portfolio of emitters as well as a failure to reduce emissions in existing facilities.

While there are some "good news" stories such as the award winning building we highlighted at CIQS Congress 2021 in Ottawa (Library Archives Canada Gatineau II project) and a host of other Net Zero Building across Canada, for the most part theses success stories have only been realized because a set of unique circumstances facilitated an easier transition to Net Zero that can be applied braodly.

Our 90-minute moderated panel led discussion will outline some of the opportunities and challenges preventing an easy glide path to the decarbonization of buildings and highlight the broader challenges that today are preventing us from achieving significant carbon reduction. Our Q7A portion will address the circumstances that can lead to the success we have seen across Canada in Net Zero buildings.

In support of this broader issue, we will also be discussing how advancements in digitization are helping everyone in the energy ecosystem understand what and where the challenges are. From inefficient grids to poorly operating facilities, decarbonization will require accurate real time data to ensure the decisions of today achieve the long-term objectives. Limitless connectivity through wifi and cellular data in almost all areas where we find energy producers and consumers provides access to real time data.

PETER VAN DYCK
Cost Consultant, Turner & Townsend

 

Peter is a cost consultant with a Turner & Townsend located in the Ottawa office. Peter has over seven years of progressive experience in the construction industry with a focus on sustainability. This includes HVAC design, driving energy efficiency and sustainability initiatives for a wide variety of national and global corporations. He has experience in cost and project management for multi-million-dollar projects, successfully coordinating teams to meet project and program targets.

GORDON BOURQUE
Vice President Business Development, Akonovia

 

Gordon Bourque is vice president business development at Akonovia, a fast-growing team of energy efficiency consults with a focus on the decarbonization of buildings and their operations. In this role, he is responsible for growth across Canada, leading the development of client focused solutions. Following his energy efficiency and decarbonization mandate at Johnson Controls, joining Akonovia was a natural progression for Gordon to leverage his experience and focus on solutions that impact climate change in a meaningful way.

With over 35 years of varied operations and development experience, Gordon has acquired both strategic and technical empathy to balance the perspectives of the mechanical room and the executive boardroom. His career in infrastructure includes operating major complex and multi-use facilities followed by business development roles. His experience extends beyond North American into various regions around the world with organizations including SNC-Lavalin, ENGIE, and Johnson Controls.

KYLE GOEHRING
Head of Sustainability for North America, Turner & Townsend

 

Kyle is the Head of Sustainability at Turner & Townsend, based in Dallas, Texas, with more than fifteen years of experience in leading sustainability initiatives across sectors and regions. His experience in establishing sustainability goals, evaluating technologies, solutions providers and coordinating delivery teams has enabled the investment of billions ($ USD) into sustainability programs and reduce the carbon footprints across tens of millions of square feet. Under Kyle's leadership, organizations have successfully implemented Net Zero, 100% renewable energy, and microgrid programs.

KATHY SELI
Director of Strategic Accounts, Green Standards

 

Kathy is the Director of Strategic Accounts at Green Standards. She is part of the executive team and brings over 20+ years in the A&D sector with a concentration in sustainable workplace and ergonomic design for the commercial and public sectors. She is a passionate leader with a sterling reputation in supporting enterprise level corporations and governments on social, environmental, and economic value in workplace change. At Green Standards, Kathy's mandate is to leak workplace decommissioning that measures and maximizes environmental, social, and governance (ESG) value.