Dan Woynillowicz, a leading voice in Canadian climate and energy policy, opens the day with a high-level briefing on the state of the climate imperative—globally, nationally and provincially. This session will ground participants in the latest developments shaping Canada’s low-carbon transition, including the evolution of CleanBC and the federal Climate Competitiveness Strategy. With a focus on where we are, what’s at stake, and what’s next, Dan will frame the opportunities and challenges ahead for the maritime industry, government, and communities supporting our maritimers working toward a net-zero future.

Next, Jan Hagen Andersen of DNV brings a global lens to the maritime sector’s evolving response to climate change. Drawing on DNV’s international work with shipowners, regulators, and port authorities, this talk explores how the industry is adapting to decarbonization pressures—from fuel transitions and regulatory compliance to innovation in vessel design and digitalization. Jan will highlight emerging trends, regional differences, and the strategic choices shaping the future of sustainable shipping. This session sets the tone for a day of solutions-focused dialogue across Canada’s maritime economy.

The International Maritime Organization’s Net-Zero Framework has the potential to reshape global shipping standards, however there have been some significant setbacks recently. Nonetheless, an amended framework is likely on the horizon which means Canada faces both opportunity and complexity in aligning domestic policy, technology, and even legal infrastructure as it prepares for this inevitability. This session brings together Charles Haines from Transport Canada, Patrick Kirchen from UBC, and Shelley Chapelski from Norton Rose Fulbright in back-to-back talks to explore how Canada can operationalize the IMO’s targets. From regulatory pathways and fuel innovation to legal implications for shipowners and ports, these experts will unpack what implementation looks like on the ground—and what’s needed to ensure Canada remains competitive and compliant in a decarbonizing maritime economy.