Canadian manufacturers are investing in clean technology, but not just for environmental reasons.While environmental goals remain part of the conversation, some industry experts say the real momentum behind clean tech adoption is coming from internal business drivers, such as operational efficiency, cost savings and the need to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global market.That was the consensus among panelists during Plant’s webinar on June 23, Clean Tech in Manufacturing: Investment, Innovation and Opportunity, which brought together experts from industry, policy and finance to explore the state of clean tech adoption in Canada’s manufacturing sector.“There’s been a real shift in the last three to four years from clean tech push to market pull,” said Bryan Watson, senior vice-president of business development at Venbridge, managing director of Clean Tech North and founding director of the Ontario Clean Technology Industry Association.“And the difference really is that operational efficiency is now coming into industry through the clean tech lens.”Watson noted that manufacturers are increasingly focused on technologies that improve productivity and reduce energy costs, whether that’s electrifying mining operations, capturing low-grade waste heat or modernizing equipment.Martha Breithaupt, tax partner to the Credits and Incentives services team at BDO Canada, agreed with Watson that efficiency is a driver of clean tech investment. But, she added, in the face of a wide range of challenges, from labour shortages and regulatory hurdles to trade barriers and supply chain issues, her firm’s manufacturing clients are prioritizing business sustainability and continuity, as well as efficiency.“If it also happens to be good for the environment along the way, that’s great from a social impact perspective. But that’s not what our Canadian manufacturers are looking for,” said Breithaupt. “They’re really looking to make an economically viable decision based on an investment ROI.”Global forces are reshaping the playing fieldWhile internal business goals are driving adoption, external pressures are accelerating it. Panelists pointed to a range of global trends, from tightening emissions regulations in Europe to rapid electrification in China, that are pushing Canadian manufacturers to adapt or risk falling behind. (ICE TORONTO)

Fonte notizia: https://www.plant.ca/