VANCOUVER, 29 May 2025 – The Canada Climate Law Initiative (CCLI) released its latest publication, Climate-Conscious Boards: Leading Canada’s Tech Firms to Sustainability. The guide provides essential information for Canada’s technology leaders to address climate-related financial risks and unlock sustainability opportunities. Directors, officers, and industry professionals will find a resource packed with actionable insights for corporate strategy, governance, and innovation.

As the impacts of a warming planet intensify—from extreme weather events and supply chain disruptions to mounting regulatory demands—technology companies must adapt swiftly to safeguard operations and maintain competitiveness.

“Even as some political support for climate action falters, the tech sector faces urgent pressures, from the energy-intensive proliferation of AI and data centres to regulatory shifts and supply chain risks,” said Ed Ma, KC, former VP General Counsel and Corporate Secretary of Thinkific Labs. “Directors and executives who lead with robust climate governance can turn these challenges into opportunities for innovation and resilience. By upholding sustainability commitments, tech firms avoid hypocrisy, enhance stakeholder trust, and position themselves as global leaders in a climate-resilient future.”

The publication covers fiduciary responsibilities, emerging disclosure standards, and global regulatory developments impacting Canadian tech firms. It also highlights how industry leaders—such as Shopify, OpenText, Hootsuite, and HP Canada—are leveraging sustainability as a competitive advantage through AI-driven solutions, renewable energy investments, and responsible supply chain management.

Karim Amlani, Senior Director, Legal at Hootsuite, emphasized the importance of governance in shaping resilient businesses. “Considering the business impacts of climate change is not just good practice—it’s imperative for future-proofing Canadian tech firms. Executives that take action today will position their companies as leaders in a competitive market.”

By equipping directors with the knowledge and tools to address climate risks, Climate-Conscious Boards reinforces the crucial role of governance in driving sustainable growth. Tech firms that adopt forward-thinking climate strategies will not only comply with emerging regulations but also secure a competitive edge in the global economy.

“Climate-conscious governance isn’t just about long-term vision—it requires real-world strategies that balance marketplace realities with practical solutions. This guide serves as a roadmap to work through the climate challenges facing Canadian tech companies.” — Ryan Black, Partner, DLA Piper Canada LLP

To download the guide: https://ccli.ubc.ca/resource/climate-conscious-boards-leading-canadas-tech-firms-to-sustainability/

Media contact: ccli-info@allard.ubc.ca

About the Canada Climate Law Initiative

The Canada Climate Law Initiative (CCLI) provides businesses and regulators with climate governance guidance so they can make informed decisions toward a net-zero economy. Powered by the nation’s top expertise, we engage with boards of directors and trustees to ensure businesses understand their legal duties with respect to climate change. Our legal research allows us to stay one step ahead in a rapidly transforming policy landscape.

CCLI is supported financially by family foundations, and is led by Professors of Law at the University of British Columbia Peter A. Allard School of Law and Osgoode Hall Law School, York University.