Collaborative Efforts Driving Change: The TAME Project Partnerships
The Toronto Atmospheric Monitoring of Emissions (TAME) project thrives on a robust network of partnerships that enhance our capacity to monitor greenhouse gas emissions effectively. By collaborating with a diverse group of organizations, we are committed to advancing climate action in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Here, we highlight our key partners and their invaluable contributions to the project.
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC)
Climate Research Division
Role: ECCC is integral to monitoring the environment as well as implementing the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change. The expertise of ECCC’s Climate Research Division in atmospheric monitoring from various platforms strengthens our research capabilities.
Contributions: ECCC provides critical instrumentation, facility access, and scientific input. They will operate existing monitoring equipment and contribute to data collection, enhancing our understanding of urban greenhouse gas dynamics.
https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/climate-change/science-research-data.html
The Atmospheric Fund (TAF)
Role: As a regional climate agency, TAF focuses on initiatives that combat climate change and improve air quality in Toronto.
Contributions: TAF facilitates access to pilot study buildings for sampling and provides updated GHG emissions inventories. Their insights will help shape policies for heat pump installation and maintenance, ensuring effective emissions reductions.
Kindred Works
Role: Kindred Works develops and manages purpose-built rental housing that is low-carbon, beautiful and desirable to live in. Projects are climate safe and designed for the 2050 climate.
Contributions: Partnering with KPMB Architects and Hammerschlag & Joffe Engineers, they provide access to building projects for air sampling during heat pump installations, ensuring that our methodologies prevent F-gas leaks.
KPMB Architects
Role: KPMB is an internationally recognized full-service architectural practice based in Canada crafting design solutions that catalyze positive change.
Contributions: Their research arm, KPMB Lab, collaborates on innovative solutions to reduce carbon emissions from the built environment, supporting the TAME project’s goals.
Hammerschlag & Joffe Engineers
Role: Specializing in sustainable design, Hammerschlag & Joffe Engineers contribute their expertise to ensure that heat pump installations are efficient and environmentally friendly.
Contributions: They will assist in developing best practices for installation and maintenance, minimizing greenhouse gas emissions associated with refrigerants.
University of Toronto Facilities and Services
Role: The University of Toronto Facilities and Services is essential in providing access to and information about campus infrastructure, and logistical support for the TAME project.
Contributions: Their expertise in facility management and all aspects of the University's energy systems, facilitates data collection and research activities at the three University of Toronto campus locations.
York University Facilities and Services
Role: York University Facilities and Services plays a critical role in supporting the TAME project through information about and access to on-site infrastructure and maintenance.
Contributions: Their collaboration ensures the collection of accurate data for research and monitoring.
Impact of Our Partnerships
Through these collaborations, the TAME project is positioned to achieve significant outcomes:
- Enhanced Monitoring Capabilities: By integrating resources and expertise from our partners, we are establishing a comprehensive atmospheric monitoring system that will provide near real-time data on greenhouse gas concentrations and air quality.
- Policy Development Support: Our findings will inform evidence-based policies at local and provincial levels, facilitating effective climate action strategies.
- Community Engagement: Collaborating with community partners ensures that our research is grounded in local practices and resonates with those it impacts most.
- Long-term Sustainability: The partnerships foster ongoing efforts to maintain atmospheric observatories beyond the project's completion, ensuring sustained monitoring and continuous improvement in emissions reduction strategies.