Insights The role of operations and maintenance in driving sustainability

In an era defined by environmental consciousness and responsible business practices, sustainability has emerged as a critical aspect for businesses across the globe. How exactly can we empower businesses to thrive responsibly and endure the test of time? 

At AtkinsRéalis , our expertise lies in combining people, data, and technology to deliver integrated and digitized operations and maintenance solutions that not only guarantee safety but also drive sustainability. 

Our Operations and maintenance (O&M) team plays a crucial role in supporting sustainability planning and green standards for new and existing assets. We partner with clients to achieve efficient and sustainable management of the complex infrastructure that keeps everything moving smoothly.

From helping commuters get to work, transporting goods and services, powering our communities, treating water and wastewater, to delivering essential healthcare services – it's what makes our lives easier, and our communities thrive.

And who helps us to achieve this? From Resident Engineers to Operations Managers, our O&M team is made up of highly qualified experts. Learn about their contribution to sustainability planning, and how governments and businesses can work together to drive sustainability:

Efficient asset management 

O&M focuses on optimizing the performance of physical assets. By selecting materials and equipment that promote sustainability and incorporate demand management techniques, resources like energy and water are conserved, leading to cost savings and a reduced ecological footprint.

At AtkinsRéalis , we unlock the power of engineering expertise by integrating digital into our way of working. This helps us work smarter and find intelligent solutions. An example of this is using intelligent operations and maintenance to unlock new value for asset owners.

We aim to provide the right information to asset owners at the right moment. With the help of machine learning, we can collect valuable data from each asset and process it effectively, making better decisions.

Government incentives and legislation 

In Canada, there are various progressive regulations and incentives to drive sustainable practices. For example, Canadian manufacturers can benefit from programs such as the Low Carbon Economy Fund that focuses on streamlining the supply chain through automation, adopting clean technologies and enhancing energy efficiency.

The Canadian government is providing up to $1.4 billion to provinces and territories that have adopted the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change to reduce emissions.

Another key driver for Canada’s sustainability targets is clean transportation. The Canadian government has introduced incentive programs to support sustainable transportation and logistics, such as a $550 million program to help businesses and communities make the switch to zero-emission vehicles.

Green certification

Reports reveal that buildings account for 13% of Canada’s direct greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and with ambitious plans to reach net zero emissions by 2050, Canada's success relies on unified efforts. Governments, private sector, communities, and individuals must collaborate. 

Governments and organizations have been implementing green building certifications and rating systems such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for over a decade. LEED is a green building certification system that is internationally well-established. 

Achieving green certification for buildings requires meeting specific sustainability targets, which may involve upgrading older building systems and facilities. AtkinsRéalis 's team collaborates closely with clients throughout the region, providing valuable support in establishing sustainable strategies.

We help to ensure compliance with LEED certification and unique requirements for projects such as our construction of the Maison symphonique, ensuring adherence to policies, and operational practices for effective asset management.

Join AtkinsRéalis : drive innovation and build a sustainable future

If you want to play a role in contributing to a sustainable future and planet, explore Operations and Maintenance jobs at AtkinsRéalis today. 

You could work on exciting contracts such as the refurbishment and operations and maintenance of The Canada Line – a 19km, fully automated, clean-energy public transport system. Or the Réseau express métropolitain (REM), the largest public transit project undertaken in Québec in the last 50 years. 

O&M contributes to sustainability planning by promoting efficient asset management, intelligent solutions, and working together towards greener standards. By integrating these practices, we can create a more sustainable living and working environment for the future.