From energy to public infrastructure to resource development sectors, cold climate technologies and related solutions are in demand throughout North America and other circumpolar regions. YCCIC is well-positioned to facilitate innovative solutions to the challenges of living and working in cold climates with its ideal research conditions, collective expertise and northern business knowledge. Furthermore, effective and affordable solutions are more likely to result with the involvement of northern researchers and entrepreneurs who recognize the potential and understand the context.
YCCIC activities focus on applied cold climate research with strong commercial prospects. Society also needs to find innovative ways of adapting existing technologies and processes to the combined demands of cold climates and the modern world. Both needs translate into substantial opportunities for innovative enterprises.
Our programs focus on three industries where specific expertise resides in the North:
- Municipal infrastructure (buildings, water, sewer, heat and power, waste, roads)
- Housing construction and maintenance
- Geotechnical works (infrastructure specialities relating to cold climate factors applicable to permafrost, mine reclamation, transportation, pipelines)
Practical examples of opportunities:
- New wastewater systems for remote communities;
- Adapt buildings and foundations to climate change, given the rapidly changing permafrost environment;
- Test new techniques for road construction and maintenance;
- Remotely inspect and monitor geotechnical and construction work; and
- Improve techniques for mine reclamation and roadside stabilization.