The 2025 CARE Conference hosted by the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy and the University of Guelph took place from March 2^nd-4^th. Days 1-2 were hosted by Munk in Toronto and focused on panel discussions and an energy tour. Day 3 was hosted by UofG and featured onsite learning opportunities as well as panel discussions. This year’s conference brought together students, faculty, and experts from the public and private sectors to collaboratively explore integrated approaches to climate change through adaptation and mitigation. Attendees had the opportunity to participate in thought provoking panel discussion and attend tours at the University of Toronto and University of Guelph to supplement their learnings.

This event was made possible through collaboration of the CARE partner institutions- Sciences Po, the University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia and the University of Guelph thanks to the generous support of the Foundation DRG.

The 2025 CARE Conference demonstrated the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to addressing climate change and created a space for graduate students to learn from and collaborate with thought leaders in topics such as the future of fossil fuels, the challenges of electrification, adaptation and mitigation from a local level and soil health.

“Coming from a scientific background in honeybee disease research, I have always recognized the importance of biodiversity in agriculture. However, this conference expanded my perspective on the role of integrated approaches in addressing environmental challenges and the necessity of cross-sector collaboration,” shared University of Guelph Student Elizabeth Mallory, “The CARE Conference didn’t just provide new knowledge—it helped shape how I envision my role in driving meaningful change.”

The first day of the conference was packed with several panels and a University of Toronto Campus Energy Tour. Panels of the day covered topics including the future of fossil fuels, the challenges of electrification and adaptation and mitigation at a local level. The U of T Energy Tour showcased the world’s first battery-powered electric vehicle fast charger and Canada’s largest urban geoexchange system that provides sustainable heating. The day concluded with a reception and student poster presentation where 22 different students from CARE partner institutions presented on their own research on a diverse range of topics relevant to CARE core themes of environmental sustainability, climate change, biodiversity and energy transitions.

The second day of the conference offered a wide variety of field experiences hosted by the University of Guelph. Students visited Heartwood Farm and Cidery, an example of regenerative agriculture practices at a local level and home to a growing craft beverage business. Attendees then visited the Dairy Research Facility and Beef Facility at the Elora Research Stations. The Elora Research Stations are owned by the Agricultural Research Institute of Ontario and managed by the University of Guelph through the Ontario Agri-Food Innovation Alliance, a collaboration between U of G and the Government of Ontario. These research stations demonstrate initiatives at the University of Guelph that are dedicated to improving the health, productivity, and sustainability of the dairy and beef cattle industries through cutting-edge research and innovation. The conference concluded with a Soils at Guelph panel which discussed how to bolster climate change mitigation, crop rotations, microbial communities and sustainable soil management strategies using sensor-based soil information.

To see the 2025 CARE Conference Schedule in full view it here: 2025 CARE Conference.

Key Panel & Experiential Learning Takeaways:

Future of Fossil Fuels Panel

Focusing on the intersections of energy, policy and environmental concerns in Canada, this panel highlighted the need for a balanced energy transition that supports human development and wellbeing. Panelists recognized the disparity in energy consumption between developed and developing nations. Avenues for a more sustainable future placed importance on international cooperation and diverse energy solutions.

Challenges of Electrification

Recognizing the importance of decarbonization and electrification as essential for sustainable energy, this panel focused on balancing the cost, reliability and policy for long-term change. Panelists stressed that significant investment and planning is needed to update infrastructure. Ontario was spotlighted for its proactive approach to reducing carbon emissions while maintaining an industrial base. Diversification of energy was also emphasized on this panel with innovative and creative solutions for an effective transition.

Adaptation and Mitigation Panel

In the face of accelerating climate change, the cost of inaction is high. This panel focused on the importance of a holistic approach to navigating budgetary, governance, and programmatic complexities for effective climate action. The importance of community engagement and education on climate science was raised as a pillar to effective climate-positive actions. Further, panelists highlighted the role of municipal bylaws and local advocacy to influence higher levels of government to integrate innovative research into climate strategies.

Heartwood Farm and Cidery

Gaining practical knowledge about regenerative farming practices in action, students participated in a tour of Heartwood Fam & Cidery by owners Val Steinmann and Brent Klassen.  The tour included a peak into the Heartwood barn, with an informative discussion around the integration of multi-species grazing with the fruit and nut orchards. “This farm produces more stories than food” Val shared, “small farms that are close to urban centers can benefit on getting people connected to being in natural spaces, learn where food comes from and why this work matters”.

Elora Research Centers

A prominent example of research in action, these tours showcased the innovative University at Guelph collaboration between researchers, industry contacts, and stakeholders.

Beef@Guelph

Research at Beef@Guelph focuses on a variety of topics around beef cattle health and best management practices. Students had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Katie Wood, UofG Alum and current Associate Professor in Animal Biosciences. Some of the research highlighted during the tour included evaluating the economic and environmental outcomes of pasture management.

Dairy@Guelph

Research at Dairy@Guelph focuses on achieving sustainable, efficient dairy production and innovative foods for human health. Students had the opportunity to learn from Dr. Christine Baes, chair of the Department of Animal Biosciences. Some of the research highlighted on this tour included genetic selection to reduce methane from cows.

Soils@Guelph

Understanding the soil beneath our feet could be the key to combatting climate change. This Soils@Guelph panel focused on the role of soil science in addressing the climate crisis. From food production, carbon sequestration to climate regulation, soil’s importance bonds it all. Dr. Biswas highlighted the need for comprehensive data and measurement within the field. Dr. Claudia Wagner-Riddle discussed the importance of policy alignment with mitigation practices, while Dr. Kari Dunfield emphasized integrating soil biodiversity into policy discussions.

Interested in Learning More?