Renewable Industries Canada (RICanada) is a Canadian non-profit organization and business coalition founded in 1984. It was originally established by a group of farmers seeking new markets for surplus crops and operated under the name Canadian Renewable Fuels Association (CRFA) until 2016, when it rebranded to reflect an expanded focus beyond biofuels to include renewable products and clean technologies more broadly.
The organization represents the interests of over 30 member companies and describes itself as Canada's leading voice in promoting the role of renewable fuels and value-added products in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Its stated purpose is "to promote the use of value-added products made from renewable resources through consumer awareness and government liaison activities."
History
- 1984: Founded as the Canadian Renewable Fuels Association (CRFA), the first national trade association representing Canada's biofuels producers, blenders, and distributors.
- 2006: CRFA launched a high-profile campaign that contributed to the establishment of federal mandates for biofuels in Canada.
- 2016: The organization rebranded as Renewable Industries Canada (RICanada) to reflect its members' expansion into a broader range of renewable products and clean technologies.
- 2018: The organization restructured into an agile coalition model.
Advocacy
In 2017, RICanada launched a public awareness campaign called "Facts Don't Lie" to promote the environmental and economic benefits of biofuels mandates. The campaign highlighted that ethanol can reduce GHGs by 62 percent compared to gasoline, and biodiesel can reduce GHGs by over 100 percent compared to diesel. It also asserted that increasing federal biofuels mandates could add 31,000 jobs and $5.6 billion to Canada's economy.
The organization works with government stakeholders and policymakers to advocate for increased adoption, production, and innovation of biofuels, renewable products, and clean technologies.
Governance
RICanada is led by an executive director and reports to a board of directors. Past presidents have included Andrea Kent (2014–2017), W. Scott Thurlow (2012–2014), and Gordon Quaiattini (2007–2014).
