Growth of econext 2023 conference tied to green economy opportunity in Newfoundland and Labrador

For Immediate Release
November 6, 2023

On October 26, 2023 econext held its annual conference – the largest since the event’s inception in 2012.

“The growth of this event is indicative of the scale of the green economy opportunity that we have here in Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Kieran Hanley, econext‘s CEO. “It is clear that from wind, to hydrogen, to critical minerals, to energy storage – our province is on the leading edge of clean growth.”

The event, attended by over 300 participants, featured panel discussions focused on: next steps in the province’s emerging clean energy industry; challenges and opportunities in its pursuit of net zero; remaining environmental challenges its municipalities are facing; and green economy innovation.

“Three key themes emerged from the event,” said Hanley. “First – Newfoundland and Labrador is on the verge of a number of truly internationally significant developments. Second, our clean electricity grid is helping us to attract investment and decarbonize – but immediate action is needed to build out that system. And third – while we can make a global contribution in its fight against climate change, we have some work to do at the community level to improve environmental outcomes here at home.”

Hanley said that the event’s growth is also a reflection of the increased awareness of climate change and the importance of taking action. “There is great optimism that the realization of these significant clean energy opportunities can help us to address lingering issues related to waste, wastewater, and of course climate adaptation.”

econext Chair Alex Templeton, Natasha Reid (Transition Accelerator), Jennifer Williams (Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro), Mike McCann (IOC), and Hon. Bernard Davis (Minister of Environment and Climate Change).

The event was carbon neutral via carbon offsets purchased from Sharp Management.

“We would like to thank all of our panelists, moderators, partners, and attendees for contributing to such a special event”

econext is an association that accelerates clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador and works on behalf of over 200 members to foster environmentally sustainable economic development. More information can be found at https://econext.ca.