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Video presentation

Reshaping energy investments for a sustainable future

ICMIF Sustainability Summit 2024: Integrating sustainability: Just transitions in energy, values, and resilience

Co-operators (Canada) has embarked on a dynamic and evolving sustainability journey, characterised by its proactive approach to catalysing positive environmental and social change. By focusing on innovative programmes, climate action, resource efficiency, social equity, and economic resilience, it has built a robust sustainability framework that engages communities and addresses contemporary challenges. This journey, rooted in a history of environmental advocacy and long-standing initiatives, underscores its commitment to fostering a sustainable and equitable future for all.

Co-operators has embarked on a comprehensive and evolving sustainability journey, marked by a series of significant initiatives and strategic programmes aimed at addressing environmental and social challenges. This journey is not just a recent endeavour but is deeply rooted in the organisation’s history and values.

At the heart of Co-operators’ sustainability efforts is the concept of “catalysing” change. This term encapsulates its proactive and dynamic approach to fostering significant and positive transformations within the communities it serves. By acting as a catalyst, Co-operators aim to initiate and accelerate environmental and social improvements, ensuring that its actions lead to meaningful and lasting impacts.

In recent years, Co-operators have focused intensively on enhancing their sustainability initiatives. This period has seen the introduction of several innovative programmes designed to tackle contemporary sustainability challenges. These programmes are characterised by their forward-thinking nature and their potential to create long-term benefits for the environment and society.

A key aspect of these recent developments is the emphasis on community engagement. Co-operators understand that achieving sustainability goals requires the active participation and collaboration of various stakeholders. By working closely with communities, it aims to foster a collective sense of responsibility and action towards sustainable practices.

The sustainability journey of Co-operators is built on a strong foundation of past efforts and commitments. Over the years, the organisation has been a staunch advocate for environmental responsibility, promoting practices that reduce ecological footprints and conserve natural resources. This historical context provides valuable insights and lessons that have shaped its current strategies and initiatives. Many of the initiatives seen today have their roots in earlier programmes that have been refined and expanded over time. This continuous improvement process ensures that Co-operators’ sustainability efforts remain relevant and effective in addressing emerging challenges.

Co-operators’ sustainability initiatives cover a broad spectrum of focus areas, with climate action and resource efficiency being at the forefront. The organisation is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting the use of renewable energy sources. By investing in clean energy projects and supporting policies that mitigate climate change, Co-operators is making significant contributions to global climate action efforts.

Resource efficiency is another critical area of focus. Co-operators is dedicated to optimising the use of resources, minimising waste, and promoting sustainable consumption patterns. These efforts not only reduce environmental impact but also contribute to the creation of a circular economy where resources are reused and recycled to the maximum extent possible.

In addition to environmental initiatives, Co-operators place a strong emphasis on social equity. It believes that the benefits of sustainability should be equitably distributed across all segments of society. This commitment is reflected in its programmes aimed at improving access to sustainable resources and opportunities for underserved communities.

Economic resilience is another cornerstone of the insurer’s sustainability strategy. The organisation recognises the importance of building resilient economic systems that can withstand environmental and social shocks. Through initiatives that support local economies and foster sustainable business practices, Co-operators is helping to create a more stable and resilient future.

Presenter:

Chad Park, Vice President, Sustainability & Citizenship, and Tom Ewart, Associate Vice President, Sustainability, Co-operators (Canada)

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