Decarbonizing futures
Concordia is dedicated to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in all its activities. We proudly rank 5th globally for Creating Smart Cities and Communities and 20th for Climate Action in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings.
Our researchers focus on critical areas such as renewable and sustainable energy, sustainable and energy efficient buildings, communities, transportation – including aerospace – and infrastructure, the circular economy, waste management and ecological systems.
We host the Canada Excellence Research Chair in Smart, Sustainable, and Resilient Communities and Cities, the Next-Generation Cities Institute and Volt-Age, a Canada First Research Excellence Fund program. Together, we aim to design and operate cities and communities sustainably while ensuring essential services for all.
Research themes
Here are some of the key research themes being explored around decarbonization at the university.
Electrification of society
We prioritize research that advances decarbonized and resilient economies through electrification. Our researchers are addressing the urgent need for smart grids, energy storage, efficiency, renewable integration and the electrification of transportation and buildings. We emphasize innovation, affordability, equity and societal well-being.
As electrification reshapes society, our policies, laws, social systems, and businesses must adapt. Canada needs new technologies and research to enable efficient electrification based on renewable energy.
Our expertise spans four key areas:
- net-zero buildings and infrastructures
- eco-mobility and electric vehicles
- clean technologies such as batteries and renewable systems
- governance focused on social inclusion and community resilience
Sustainable, smart and resilient aerospace
Concordia is transforming the aerospace industry with innovative de-icing techniques and new algorithms for flight management systems. Our interdisciplinary approach to training and research focuses on sustainable, smart and resilient aerospace solutions with the goal of creating a cleaner, safer aerospace future.
Our researchers work on integrated design of sustainable systems, AI, cybersecurity and advanced battery technologies to create greener materials, reduce emissions and enhance safety. Our strengths include advanced manufacturing, aircraft propulsion, autonomous systems, aviation management, avionics, connectivity and product development.
Sustainable built environment design, living and practices
Concordia leads in research on sustainable and healthy built environments, promoting livability, biodiversity and vibrant communities. Our researchers collaborate on designing and implementing buildings and infrastructure to enhance professional practices, policies and community understanding.
We explore sustainable urban living, smart carbon-neutral buildings, responsible design, sustainable development, and corporate social responsibility. Through our work, we aim to create safer, more livable and environmentally friendly spaces.
Sustainable built environment design, living and practices
Concordia leads in research on sustainable and healthy built environments, promoting livability, biodiversity and vibrant communities. Our researchers collaborate on designing and implementing buildings and infrastructure to enhance professional practices, policies and community understanding.
We explore sustainable urban living, smart carbon-neutral buildings, responsible design, sustainable development, and corporate social responsibility. Through our work, we aim to create safer, more livable and environmentally friendly spaces.
Sustainable natural and social systems
Conserving, restoring, and maintaining natural and social systems is crucial for the wellbeing of present and future generations. Our researchers address the UN's 17 SDGs by tackling climate change, biodiversity loss and social injustice.
Our work spans themes such as water security, environmental impact assessment and sustainable resource management. We emphasize inclusive decision-making and collaborate with diverse communities to develop innovative solutions for natural, urban and rural environments, addressing urgent policy and governance needs.
Related research units
- Volt-Age
- Next-Generation Cities Institute
- Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute
- Sustainability in the Digital Age
- Centre for Innovation in Construction and Infrastructure Engineering and Management
- Centre for Zero Energy Building Studies
- Concordia Centre for Composites
- Concordia Institute for Water, Energy and Sustainable Systems
- Security Research Centre
- Thermal Spray and Surface Engineering Research Centre