Net Zero Naturally

THE PATH TO NET ZERO STARTS AT CENTRE ICE

Canada and the United States have set ambitious goals to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions
by 2050, which essentially means that our economies would emit no greenhouse gas emissions, or
offset emissions through things like tree planting and carbon capture technology. As a result, Net
Zero has become a buzzword used by everyone from banks to oil companies. While we think it’s
great that so many are focused on how we can take climate action—it’s something we all need to
prioritize—it’s important to note that not all net-zero claims are equal.

ONE FOR ALL

Many municipalities have a climate target to hit net-zero emissions within the next 30 years. Whether your rink is a new build or an established arena, Net Zero Naturally offers a 360 degree approach to getting to net-zero emissions, reducing energy consumption and increasing system efficiency with a range of straightforward and actionable strategies that can be tailored to your facility, and your sustainability objectives.

Getting to net-zero emissions won’t happen overnight. And it won’t happen without a solid plan. Here’s a breakdown of how to get your facility to the finish line.

Step One: The Big Picture

Understanding where and how you use energy in your building is key to developing a successful plan. Doing a net-zero audit not only helps identify the changes you need to make, but it also helps you set benchmarks to measure the impact of those changes.

Step Two: Easy Wins

This phase is all about actionable items you can implement immediately, from simple modifications like switching to LED lighting and making automation upgrades, to higher-capital projects such as installing a new refrigeration system that uses heat recovery and runs on an ultra-low GWP natural refrigerant.

Step Three: Deep Work

Think of this period as the back half of a marathon—it’s the toughest part. That’s why it requires creativity and planning. The work may be complicated—for instance, installing heat reclaim, building envelope changes, and other projects that require a detailed approach—but you’ll be that much closer to the finish line.

Step Four: The Long Game

This is the home stretch: full building electrification. The step involves shifting entirely from fossil fuels to electricity or total on-site power generation from renewable sources like wind and solar. It won’t deliver short-term gains like step three and four, but it makes environmental sense.

SOLUTIONS