The University of Calgary is a recognized leader in sustainability, offering industry partners a dynamic platform for collaboration on cutting-edge environmental solutions. In the QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) World University Rankings: Sustainability 2024, UCalgary ranked 68th out of 1,403 institutions globally, placing it in the top 5% worldwide. Building on this foundation, key researchers are actively exploring opportunities to support the circular plastics economy—inviting industry leaders to co-create scalable, future-focused solutions that drive both environmental and economic value.
“We define impact as making a difference in the communities we serve. By supporting engaged scholarship from inception to impact, we can make research meaningful to society and to
community,” says Dr. William Ghali, Vice-President (Research), University of Calgary.
Connecting Research to Real-World Impact
A key contributor to this effort is the Industry Liaison Office (Research), operating under the Office of the Vice-President (Research). The team acts as a bridge between industry and academia, fostering meaningful partnerships that connect companies with UCalgary’s cutting-edge facilities, and expertise. The Industry Liaison Office assists companies with navigating research requests, facilitating partnerships, supporting contract negotiations, and leveraging government funding programs to maximize the value of industry R&D investments.
“We take pride in understanding the research capabilities at UCalgary, including both the academic expertise of our faculty members and the services offered by our cutting-edge research facilities,” Carmen Rieder, Manager, Industry Liaison Office (Research) explains. “That knowledge allows us to make precise connections that can spark impactful collaborations.”
Partnering for a Circular Future
As a proud member of the Alberta Plastics Recycling Association (APRA), UCalgary is advancing collaboration in the circular plastics economy—a critical area for sustainability in Alberta and beyond. “Our APRA membership gives us valuable opportunities to understand industry challenges, technical barriers, and emerging opportunities,” says Susan Sun, BD Lead, Energy & Advanced Technologies. “It’s a direct line to fostering communication between researchers and members who are working toward a shared goal.” Looking ahead, UCalgary is building capacity in sustainability research and education, with a particular focus on advancing circular plastics innovation.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
The university recognizes that collaboration is both the biggest challenge and the greatest opportunity in achieving a circular plastics economy.
“To refine and advance the plastics circular economy, we need to work together—companies, nonprofits, governments, and academic institutions,” says Dr. Ian Gates, Associate Vice-President (Innovation). “We see immense opportunity in bringing these groups together alongside APRA to co-create real-world solutions.”
Bringing Value to APRA Members
The University of Calgary is a proud host and sponsor of our annual Alberta Circular Plastics Day 2026. Members of APRA will be able to enjoy the beautiful Calgary landscape and explore the many different buildings and research facilities that the University of Calgary has to offer. Attendees will also have a chance to make a booking at the Alt Hotel in the University District, where there are ample food and entertainment options nearby. To read more about ACPD 2026, visit our website at: ACPD 2026 Program | Alberta Plastics Recycling Association
