UN Global Compact Network Canada Logo

Navigating Emerging Social and Environmental Challenges

TIFF Lightbox, 350 King Street W., Toronto, ON
09 October 2024
8:00 am - 12:00 pm Eastern Time

To help navigate these complexities, the UN Global Compact Network Canada is hosting an exclusive in-person event in Toronto for the Canadian Participants of the UN Global Compact. This timely event will feature an array of expert panelists and keynote speakers from the private sector, government, and civil society, who will delve into the opportunities and risks of Just Transition, climate adaptation strategies, and ethical supply chain practices, and the responsibility and challenges of Canadian businesses to respond to these emerging issues. This event will be held at TIFF Lightbox, thanks to our Host Sponsor, the Toronto International Film Festival.

Keynote Speaker

Sanda Ojiambo, Assistant Secretary-General; CEO & Executive Director of the United Nations Global Compact. This is a unique opportunity to connect with Sanda Ojiambo and gain insights from her vast experience.


Panel A: Understanding the Current Landscape of Emerging Issues 

As the landscape of corporate responsibility evolves, businesses are tasked with navigating a complex array of emerging social and environmental issues. This panel will provide insight into the current landscape and connectivity of emerging issues such as just transition principles, climate adaptation strategies, and ethical supply chain practices. Join us to hear from industry leaders, sustainability experts, and policymakers who are at the forefront of tackling these critical challenges.

Confirmed Speakers:

Moderator: Mercedes Morin, Director of the Sustainable Development Goals Unit, Employment and Social Development Canada

Emrul Hasan, Principal Consultant, PlanCatalyst

Julie Millard, Vice President, Corporate Citizenship, Open Text Corporation

Anne Pringle, Programs & Impact Director, Lucky Iron Life

Katherine Prusinkiewicz, Partner, Director of Knowledge, Norton Rose Fulbright

Panel B: The Emerging Issues Roadmap: Building Resilient Value Chains for a Sustainable Future 

As Canadian businesses face unprecedented social and environmental challenges, building resilient value chains has become imperative for sustainable growth. Building on our earlier discussion, this panel will explore how companies can navigate the complexities of just transition, climate adaptation, and ethical supply chains as they prepare for 2030 and beyond. Join us to chart a roadmap for a sustainable future, where resilient value chains support both business success and societal well-being.

Confirmed Speakers:

Moderator: Elizabeth Dove, Executive Director, UN Global Compact Network Canada

Vincent Klassen, Director General of the Sustainability Directorate, Environment And Climate Change Canada

Paul-Emile McNab, Vice-President, Business Development & Member Experience, Canadian Council for Indigenous Business

Jane Zhang, Co-CEO, ETCH Sourcing


Why Attend?

This event is designed to provide you with the knowledge and tools to address the following key issues:

  1. Understand the Current Landscape of Emerging Issues in Canada: Learn how businesses are navigating the evolving social and environmental challenges within the corporate responsibility landscape.
  2. Canada’s Pathway to a Just Transition: Discover strategies and policies that support a fair transition towards sustainable jobs, ensuring inclusivity and fairness in the workforce.
  3. Sustainable and Ethical Supply Chain Responsibility: Gain insights into best practices for maintaining ethical standards across your supply chain, promoting responsible business conduct.
  4. Corporate Climate Adaptation and Biodiversity: Understand the importance of climate adaptation and nature-positive actions, and how they contribute to long-term corporate sustainability.
  5. The Business Role in Accelerating Action on the SDGs: Explore how your business can effectively contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, driving impactful and meaningful progress.
  6. Bridging the Gap Between Government and the Private Sector: Discover how collaboration between government and businesses can accelerate progress on sustainability goals.

Who Can Attend?

This event is exclusively for UN Global Network Canada Participants and invited guests. The event has limited seating, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Your company may register up to two representatives.

How to Register?

If you are a Canadian Participant of the UN Global Compact and didn’t receive an invitation, please reach out to our Engagement Manager, Jen Brundage, at jen@unglobalcompact.ca

If your company would like to sponsor this event/programme, please contact our Engagement Manager, Jen Brundage to discuss the sponsorship opportunities available.

Let's Make A
Positive Impact Together!

If you're interested in joining the UN Global Compact and tapping into its vast network in Canada, we invite you to take the next step. Become a Participant and help lead the charge to advance sustainable development and social responsibility with us.

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