Canada has identified Brazil as a priority market for its global commerce strategy. Prime Minister Stephen Harper's recent visit to Brazil to promote stronger bilateral trade and cultural relations between the countries was viewed by many as marking the start of a new era of cooperation. The agreements and new relationships forged during this historic visit represent important business, academic and research building blocks – building blocks that have the potential to unlock exciting opportunities for innovation.
The recognition by both countries of the potential (and need) for mutually beneficial cleantech collaboration is well established. The Canada-Brazil Framework Agreement for Cooperation on Science, Technology and Innovation, which provides a framework for collaboration on joint research and development projects, entered into force in both countries in 2010 and an inaugural action plan for the Canada-Brazil Joint Committee for Cooperation on Science, Technology and Innovation, which lists green energy and clean technology as one of the four proposed areas of focus for Canada-Brazil collaboration, is currently being finalized.
Canada and Brazil share a parallel history of capitalizing on natural resource wealth in sectors such as forestry, mining, energy and agriculture. Ostensibly, these are also sectors that demand the greatest dose of innovation to ensure future growth that is socially, environmentally and economically sustainable. Both countries unquestionably have valuable experience and insights to share – Brazil has long been a clean energy pioneer, with close to half of its energy generated from renewable sources, and Canada is a long standing global leader in cleantech innovation – and both countries unquestionably share a common need for cleantech innovation in order to ensure continued economic growth and responsible stewardship of their natural resources.
With a central mission to promote investment and trade between Canada and Brazil, the Brazil Canada Chamber of Commerce sees clear opportunities to deepen knowledge exchange and commercial relationships in areas as diverse as energy, water, waste management, agriculture, information technology and environmental services. In the past year, we have established a well-received Sustainability Committee dedicated to helping the BCCC community better understand sustainability issues and opportunities, hosted member events dedicated to cleantech and green building innovation, and participated in a bi-lateral Smart Grid and bio-energy match-making mission.
The table for Canada-Brazil cleantech collaboration has been set, and we must take full advantage of this unique opportunity to combine our shared experience and expertise to become innovation leaders, and produce the kind of solutions demanded by growing economies the world over.
Previously published
