Queen’s is one of two founding sponsors of an inaugural conference that will bring together leaders and innovators in the field of sustainable energy.

“Sponsoring SWITCH’s greenprofit conference is consistent with our goals to support green research. We’re delighted to be able to help facilitate discussion and collaboration on renewable energy and sustainability issues between industry and the local community,” says Vice-Principal (Research) Steven Liss.

Warren Mabee, a professor in the School of Policy Studies and Department of Geography, is an expert in renewable energy and environmental and energy policy. He has been involved with SWITCH for the last three years.

“Building sustainable businesses involves creating a different kind of business plan, and developing a strategy and outlook that will be viable well into the future,” says Dr. Mabee, who will moderate a panel discussion on bridging the gap between commercial groups and local communities. “SWITCH has been instrumental in supporting the sustainable industries and companies which are taking root all over the city and in encouraging people to use renewable resources and opt for sustainable ways of living.”

Headquartered at Queen’s Innovation Park in Kingston, SWITCH is a network of urban and rural businesses, research and educational institutions, public sector participants, and community-minded volunteers working together to position the southeastern Ontario region as a leading centre for sustainable energy.

The greenprofit conference, which is co-sponsored by St. Lawrence College, will be held March 20-21. For more details about SWITCH, please visit their website.