What is the Net Zero Challenge
In May 2023, Donna Cona enrolled in Canada’s Net Zero Challenge (NZC). The NZC a Government of Canada initiative designed for both public and private sectors to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The NZC encourages organizations across all industries to take steps towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and addressing climate related issues. The Government of Canada has committed to reducing Canada’s emissions by 40-45% from 2005 levels by 2030, putting Canada on a path to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
Which requirements did Donna Cona meet?
To join the NZC, Donna Cona committed to set a net-zero emissions target for 2050 and completing a series of milestones established by Environment and Climate Change Canada.
- Within 12 months of joining NZC, Donna Cona:
Completed the Preliminary Checklist, confirming our 2050 commitment.
As of 2025, Donna Cona submitted the Comprehensive Participation Questionnaire, which includes a quantified emissions baseline, interim targets, and mitigation strategies—meeting the program’s minimum requirements for the Bronze Participation Tier.
Our GHG Emissions Boundary
Because Donna Cona leases its office space, the company does not have operational control over electricity, heating, or cooling. Under the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, this means there are no reportable Scope 1 or 2 emissions.
Our measurable emissions are captured under Scope 3 – Business Travel, which represents the main source of emissions under our operational influence.
Actions and Next Steps
Donna Cona continues to advance its sustainability initiatives by:
- Expanding virtual collaboration tools to reduce business travel;
- Maintaining a hybrid work model (23 employees working remotely) to minimize commuting emissions;
- Monitoring and reporting annual progress against our 2030 interim target;
- Exploring additional Scope 3 categories—such as purchased goods and services—for inclusion in future reporting cycles.
We remain committed to transparent climate action, corporate responsibility, and supporting Canada’s transition to a low-carbon economy.
The Minister of Environment and Climate Change Steven Guilbeault commented: “More and more businesses across Canada are aiming to make their facilities and operations net-zero—not just to fight climate change, but also to stimulate innovation, demonstrate corporate responsibility, and ensure their long-term competitiveness. By taking up the Net-Zero Challenge, alongside more than 130 other companies, Donna Cona is leading Canada’s clean industrial advantage and the path toward a sustainable future.”
The Net-Zero Challenge is a voluntary initiative by the Government of Canada that encourages business to develop and implement credible and effective plans to transition their facilities and operation to net-zero emissions by 2050. By participating, companies like Donna Cona are committing to reducing their greenhouse gas emissions, fostering innovation, and enhancing their competitiveness in a low-carbon economy.
Donna Cona’s enrollment
The Net-Zero Challenge – Canada.ca
