February 23, 2025
Local elected officials, construction industry leaders, and business professionals recently gathered in Calgary to explore how clean technology is transforming the construction sector, optimizing operations, and fueling economic growth in Alberta. The event, part of New Economy Canada’s “Getting Things Built” tour, was hosted in collaboration with the Calgary Construction Association and Carbon Upcycling, showcasing innovations that drive sustainability and job creation.
At Platform Calgary, attendees discussed the future of clean technology in construction before touring Carbon Upcycling’s demonstration facility. The Calgary-based company is pioneering carbon capture technology, integrating captured emissions with industrial byproducts from the steel, mining, and energy sectors to produce low-carbon, high-performance cement. With Canada’s cement industry employing over 160,000 workers and demand expected to rise, this innovation offers a sustainable, scalable solution for the sector’s future.
Smith highlighted Alberta’s track record in energy and infrastructure innovation, emphasizing the role of clean technology in decarbonizing operations, strengthening supply chains, and boosting competitiveness. She praised Carbon Upcycling for revolutionizing cement production while creating new job opportunities in the region.
Kniebel-Huebner stressed the importance of local material sourcing, stating that Canadian cement producers need secure, high-quality, low-carbon supply chains. By leveraging local resources and expertise, Carbon Upcycling is helping to “get things built” with sustainable, homegrown solutions.
Sawhney pointed out that Alberta’s economy is expanding, with record housing starts, but emphasized the urgent need for a skilled workforce. The province is increasing training programs for electricians, welders, plumbers, and other trades, preparing workers for the industry’s clean tech evolution.
McLean celebrated Carbon Upcycling’s success and Alberta’s commitment to carbon capture technology, noting that innovations like these will drive economic decarbonization while adding environmental and economic value to Canada.
Black highlighted the growing demand for high-performance buildings, emphasizing that alternative supply chains are pushing the industry toward new, optimized solutions. He expressed support for partnerships with innovators like Carbon Upcycling to overcome challenges and advance sustainable construction practices.
New Economy Canada is a non-partisan initiative bringing together business, labor, and Indigenous leaders to drive Canada’s clean energy transition. Representing over 410,000 workers and $200 billion CAD in annual revenue, the organization aims to unlock resilient, affordable clean energy and technology for long-term economic growth.
The Calgary event underscored Alberta’s leadership in clean construction technologies and the potential for low-carbon materials to reshape the industry, fostering a more sustainable, competitive, and job-rich future.
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