Toward carbon neutrality: OACIQ's commitment
The OACIQ is undertaking a carbon-neutral initiative to reduce its environmental footprint and help combat climate change. This initiative reflects a commitment to placing sustainable development at the core of its organizational practices.
Our approach to carbon neutrality in
3 key actions
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Greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory
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Offsetting emissions by purchasing carbon credits
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5-year GHG emissions reduction plan
Greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory
In 2024, the OACIQ commissioned the LCL Environnement to conduct its first greenhouse gas (GHS) assessment, in accordance with the international standard ISO 14064-1.
This assessment covers the majority of activities at the Brossard head office and its 210 employees, taking into account direct emissions (scope 1), indirect emissions related to energy (scope 2) and a portion of other (scope 3).
The data was collected from invoices, internal records, and employee surveys to ensure to ensure a reliable and representative carbon footprint assessment of the Organization.
Outcome:
For 2024, the OACIQ generated a total of 296.4 tonnes of CO₂.
This result highlights the building's energy performance, particularly thanks to geothermal energy, and helps identify the main types of emissions to target in our future reduction efforts.
Emissions offsetting
To move toward carbon neutrality, the OACIQ has chosen to offset all its emissions by purchasing carbon credits, using a rigorous methodology:
- Credit selection
The carbon credits were selected from projects certified and verified according to recognized international standards (Gold Standard, VCS), ensuring the traceability and effectiveness of GHG reductions. - Project diversification
The carbon credits come from three recognized providers:
• Planetair (40 %): local and international projects, Gold Standard certified
• Ostrom Climate (30 %): diversified portfolio, VCS and Gold Standard certified
• Solutions Will (30 %): 100% Quebec-based projects, VCS certified, with positive benefits for the community
Five-year GHG emissions reduction plan
As part of its efforts to achieve carbon neutrality, the OACIQ has developed a five-year plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As of 2026, the Organization will conduct an inventory of all existing environmental initiatives to establish a comprehensive overview of its eco-friendly actions. At the same time, “green ambassadors” will be recruited based on ongoing projects and initiatives, thereby fostering team commitment to the approach and strengthening its reach.
An annual emissions report will be prepared by the OACIQ, using spreadsheets provided by LCL Environnement, ensuring rigorous and transparent monitoring. Regular internal communications will highlight the efforts made and raise staff awareness of eco-friendly practices.
Commitment to the Carbon Neutral Challenge
The OACIQ participates in the Carbon Neutral Challenge,a national initiative that encourages organizations to plan and implement ambitious strategies to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
This program, supported by the Government of Canada, requires:
- Setting a carbon neutrality target for 2050 or earlier
- Developing a preliminary plan within 12 months of joining, followed by a comprehensive plan within 24 months
- Setting intermediate emission reduction targets
- Regular monitoring and updating of progress
- Publishing financial information related to the fight against climate change
By participating in the Carbon Neutral Challenge, the OACIQ is committed to adhering to a strict technical framework, reporting on its progress each year, and collaborating with a network of professionals to share best practices and innovate in the transition to a low-carbon emission economy.
The OACIQ has been certified under LCL Environnement's carbon-neutral program, in the organization category.
FAQ
Why is the OACIQ committed to carbon neutrality?
To reduce its environmental impact, meet the expectations of its stakeholders and contribute to the collective effort to combat climate change.
How does the OACIQ measure its emissions?
Through an inventory carried out in accordance with the ISO 14064-1 standard, which analyzes the emission sources associated with its activities.
What is a carbon credit?
A carbon credit represents one tonne of CO₂ removed or avoided through certified environmental projects (reforestation, renewable energy, etc.).
How are carbon credits selected?
The OACIQ selects credits that are certified and verified according to international standards, sourced from recognized providers and diverse projects.
What is the Carbon Neutral Challenge?
It is a national initiative that invites organizations to plan and implement strategies to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, with requirements for monitoring, transparency, and collaboration.
Does the OACIQ plan to reduce its emissions at source?
Yes, the Organization is implementing measures to optimize its travel, improve waste management, and enhance the energy efficiency of its facilities.
How does the OACIQ report on its progress?
Each year, the OACIQ publishes its results and updates its GHG reduction plans in accordance with the requirements of the Carbon Neutral Challenge.
- Reference number
- 300298
- Last update
- January 28, 2026