What’s a Tidalbreak, anyways?
I’ve spent the last few months quietly on the road – both as a break, and as something of a research exercise. I travelled through several countries in Asia, followed by longer stints in New Zealand and Australia, looking to better understand the geopolitical, energy, and climate policy contexts across regions. Often, a question I brought up in conversation was ‘what’s Canada’s role here on the energy transition – or is there one?’
Turns out the answer to that question became further and further muddied when the federal US administration proceeded with tariff talk and then tariff action. The muddying of the waters was further reinforced when I attended a conference in Singapore run by the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, learning much more about the challenging geopolitical circumstances we face outside of our relationship with the US. The reality is that today there are many roles for Canada to play – demonstrating leadership, providing capacity to develop and implement policy mechanisms, bridging gaps, strengthening alliances, among others. The role for any business with Canadian operations to play in this is unique, intricately complex, and ever-evolving.
I arrived back in Vancouver a few days ago (just in time to vote!) – and I’m focused as ever on moving the needle on decarbonization. This time, through my own company – Tidalbreak Climate!
Why start a company now? I’m not naïve, and I understand very well the unprecedented geopolitical conditions in which we find ourselves today, which – in Canada – will yet again be different this time next week following the election.
If you know me, you know that regardless as to what challenges are in place, I’ll figure out a way forwards – whether it’s finding that key line in a dense regulation, understanding the technical details in innovative technology, facilitating consensus on thorny issues, or leaning into the appropriate narrative for the right audience. I’ve been working away at these issues since halfway through my undergrad degree, almost 15 years ago. I always have my ear to the ground, staying alert as to changes in the landscape with implications for the energy transition.
Today, the narrative has shifted – energy security is the thread that matters more than ever. With a shifting global energy mix – both in composition and in geographic source – Canada has an opportunity to reposition itself on the global stage. What I’m hoping to lean into is that energy security, affordability, and sustainability don’t necessarily need to be tradeoffs – not when we look at long-term horizons. When in doubt, look further out.
Tides are rising – concerns about our shared climate, global greenhouse gas emissions, energy security considerations, and resistance to climate action. With more urgency than ever, we need to break these tides.
If you’re looking for assistance navigating these murky waters – or if you just want to catch up and chat – feel free to reach out!
