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Diverse Pathways to Net-Zero

All Net-Zero Pathways Begin With a Local Step

October 2021

The Diverse Pathways to Net-Zero initiative examines the critical role that Canadian communities play on the pathway to net-zero.

Project Overview

During the first phase of this initiative, we published the following research:

1. Literature Review

A review of literature that informs net-zero transition policies in Canada, published over the last three years, reinforces the critical role that communities have in achieving net-zero. It highlights that little consideration about the roles of, and implications for, communities has been considered in modelling, plans, and policy making to date.

2. The Development of Community Archetypes

This research explores the first building blocks in the development of a comprehensive archetype framework for Canadian communities. It shows that community archetyping can be an effective tool to refine what resources and capacity is needed in Canadian communities on the pathway to net-zero.

Next Steps

Research and extensive engagement are required to leverage community perspectives. The Diverse Pathways to Net Zero initiative aims to capture, champion, and communicate community pathways and achievements. Over the next three years, the project will fill a critical gap in moving net-zero transitions toward achievement.

Executive Summary

All Net-Zero Pathways Begin With a Local Step

A Literature Review of Research Informing Net-Zero Transition Policy in Canada

Community Archetypes

A Framework to Inform the Development of Net-Zero Transition Policy in Canada

Project Partners

Other Resources

QUEST conducts and packages cutting edge applied research to empower practitioners and decision makers with the tools they need to advance Smart Energy Communities. Find out more about our projects:

Data Table Test Page

Data Table Explaination on the data table and what it can be used for.Table Legend & Definitions Each item in the filterable table of items relates to 4 energy policies. Explore the dropdowns below to learn more about the policy's topics, metrics, and sub-metrics...

Pan-Atlantic NCA

Pan-Atlantic NCA

QUEST Canada’s Net-Zero Communities Accelerator (NCA) Program has been recognized with a prestigious 2025 Clean50 Top Project Award. The annual awards recognize initiatives based on their innovation, their ability to inform, and to inspire Canadians.

QUEST Canada’s Pan-Atlantic NCA Program enables Atlantic Canada communities to reach net zero by equipping them with the tools and knowledge to develop and implement community energy and emissions plans and understand the net economic benefits they can provide.

Town of Salisbury

Town of Salisbury

Salisbury is a town located in Westmorland County, New Brunswick. A village for 57 years, in January 2023 it was amalgamated with parts of four local districts to become a new town.