Photo: UBCO

The University of British Columbia Okanagan campus has received $1.9M from the federal government to develop an “innovation hub” that will promote clean technology.

Minister of Economic Development Mélanie Joly made the announcement this week, which will also fund tech that converts carbon-based additives and components into new, sustainable products.

“I believe in harnessing the power of innovation and creativity to tackle economic and environmental challenges. Our government is proud to support the University of British Columbia Okanagan in this project, which will work to promote both a sustainable future and a thriving economy,” said Joly. “Together, we are showing our commitment to a country that provides opportunities and economic benefits to Canadians, while also ensuring the development of technologies that will lead to a cleaner, greener environment for future generations.”

With the funding, UBCO will work with manufacturing, mining and lumber companies in Western Canada to research how industrial waste can gain a second life as high-quality carbon products. One example is the conversion of carbon collected during the recycling process of heavy industry vehicle tires into battery electrodes that power electric vehicles. These new products have applications in both domestic and international markets and will open up new exporting opportunities for Canadian-made innovation.

“This project will build on British Columbia’s reputation as a leader in the clean technology sector,” the federal government said in a news release. “It also fosters a more inclusive economy by creating almost 50 well-paying jobs for underrepresented groups including women, youth and Indigenous students.”