QUÉBEC, December 2, 2017 – The Réseau des SADC (Société d’aide au développement des collectivités) et CAE (Centre d’aide aux entreprises) is proud to launch its new Carbon Credit pilot project today, which aims to provide access to the carbon credit market to approximately 150 regional small businesses.

This market will allow them to be recognized and financially rewarded for their efforts to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Small businesses were previously unable to individually benefit from these advantages, as the return on investment would not make up for their efforts.

“We know that 72% of GHG emissions are produced by small businesses and organizations, but unlike big businesses, they are not included in the regulated carbon market. As a result, and through their expertise in sustainable development in small businesses, the SADC et CAE have put together this pilot project,” said Daniel Dumas, President of the Réseau.

“It’s a very rewarding incentive for small businesses because, aside from the monetary value, it places them in a position of leadership in the sustainable development of their industry as well as their business sector. These factors help make their business more competitive, encouraging them to continue their efforts and invest even more in sustainable development,” added Mr. Dumas.

Group strength, the key to the solution

15 SADC et CAE in Quebec are involved in the project, as well as Will Solutions, through their Sustainable Community Solution. The SADC et CAE will offer personalized support and financial assistance to businesses and give them access to the expertise of Will Solutions, which will carry out the more technical aspects of the process.

Our solution consists of grouping several small businesses and pooling their greenhouse gas emission reductions as part of projects related to energy efficiency or diverting residual waste from landfills. According to market regulations, these reduced carbon units will then be sold to businesses and organizations that aim for carbon neutrality.

A year from now, we estimate that over one million carbon units will be verified and put on the market. Over the past few months, for example, seven businesses supported by the SADC du Haut-Saguenay have sold over 3,300 carbon units.

Businesses and organizations in Quebec that want to buy carbon credits from us are also invited to express their interest at the SADC or CAE in their region.

About the Réseau

The Réseau is made up of 67 SADC et CAE, representing 400 professionals and over 1,000 volunteers who have been working in community economic development for more than 35 years.

Since 2008, over 1,000 businesses have adopted sustainable practices thanks to support from the SADC et CAE.

To learn about the full range of services offered by the SADC or CAE in your region: www.sadc-cae.ca/en/

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