Waste represents a major challenge for both the environment and public health. Effective waste management is essential to minimize its impacts, which can be severe, including soil and water contamination, greenhouse gas emissions, and biodiversity loss. Plastics, in particular, pose a significant environmental challenge due to their persistence in the environment and the inefficiencies associated […]
Canada’s construction industry has experienced strong growth for several years, a trend that has accelerated since the COVID-19 pandemic. This growth is driven by high levels of immigration and increasing demand for housing, as well as the urgent need to replace aging infrastructure. To meet these challenges, there is growing demand for cost-effective, durable materials
The impacts of climate change are becoming increasingly evident across our societies. To address this major societal challenge, many jurisdictions around the world have committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Reaching this objective will require significant efforts from researchers, industry, governments, and consumers alike. The pathways that will enable Québec—and Canada more broadly—to achieve
Decarbonizing the economy: everyone’s responsibility Read More »
In the 1990s, the plastics industry introduced the idea that plastic products were recyclable. Yet, most experts predict that plastic waste will double again by 2040. Only about 10% of the plastic we produce is recycled, compared to approximately 40% of paper (1). What does recycling actually mean? Why is recycling not what was envisioned
Recycling of Plastics: A Look at the Challenges and Promises of Advanced Technologies Read More »
Composite materials are widely used across many industries due to their numerous advantages. However, their manufacturing not only involves the use of hazardous substances, but also relies on processing operations (polymerization, cutting, lamination, machining, etc.) that release potentially toxic volatile compounds (vapors, gases, dust). In this context, waste generated from the synthesis or processing of
Recycling Hazardous Waste: A Critical Issue for the Composite Materials Sector Read More »
It’s deeply ingrained in our minds: when we think of solar energy, the first technology that comes to mind is photovoltaics—the well-known method of generating electricity from solar panels. This technology is widely deployed and experiencing remarkable growth. Take, for example, the city of Lac-Mégantic, which launched Quebec’s first microgrid in 2021. This system includes
Composed of two materials with complementary mechanical properties, a matrix and a reinforcement, composites are highly sought after in sectors such as construction, energy, transportation, and telecommunications. These materials stand out for their performance, particularly in terms of high strength and light weight. However, while common practice relies on synthetic fibers such as glass or
Natural Fibers: The Material of the Future for Sustainable Composites Read More »
The circular economy for plastics is a complex and rapidly evolving field from a legal perspective. Its implementation and ultimate success will result from close collaboration between legislators and industry. This article provides an overview of some of the most relevant regulations and legislative provisions. The goal is to present and organize the information in
Plastic Legislation in Canada: Let’s Take Stock for a Clearer Picture! Read More »
Composed of a matrix—generally organic (polyester resins, phenolic resins, polyamides, etc.)—and a reinforcement (glass fibers, carbon fibers, natural fibers, etc.), composite materials are increasingly used across many industries, including automotive, aerospace, construction, and energy. They provide components with strength, durability, and lightweight properties. Across all material types, global composite production reached 17.7 megatonnes in 2019(1).
Recycling Composites: A Viable Solution and a Revenue Opportunity for Businesses Read More »
In March 2024, Québec Net Positif published the Barometer of Business Transition – Manufacturing Sector 2023 (1). The study aimed to measure the level of engagement of Quebec manufacturing companies toward climate action and a low-carbon economy. More than 200 business leaders of all sizes participated in the survey. While 81% of respondents believe it
Maximizing Profitability Through Sustainable Development and Carbon Credits Read More »
