Programs
Our mission is to support the transition to a circular, net-zero world through professional training and experiential, impact-focused learning. To achieve this, we engage in projects that drive climate action, develop individuals and organizations through capacity building, and advance knowledge through applied research supported by our partners and alumni.
Climate Action
We are dedicated to mitigating accelerated rate of climate change by restoring the capacity of earth to sequester and store carbon naturally. Through projects that focus on regeneration of ecosystem services, we are determined to move beyond achieving net-zero goals and advance net-positive impacts of our actions.
Capacity Building
Our programs have been thoughtfully developed to empower both individuals and organizations with the skills necessary to excel within today's rapidly evolving sustainability landscape. Tailored to cater to the needs of working professionals and future professionals, these programs are an ideal opportunity for those dedicated to driving meaningful sustainability action while ensuring a competitive edge in their careers.
Applied Research
We carry out interdisciplinary applied research to contribute strong evidence to the existing body of knowledge in circular, net-zero applications. We incorporate our research into our capacity building and climate action programs to advance sustainable solutions for climate action.
Featured Projects
In the past year, we have embarked on some exciting projects to build on our mission. These are some of the featured projects that we're initiated in 2024.
Pocket Forests
CLIMATE ACTION
Nature-based climate solutions are strategies that leverage the potential of natural carbon sinks such as forests and wetlands to help remove some of the carbon dioxide from the air. In addition to mitigating the impacts of climate change, these natural solutions contribute to restoration of local ecosystem services bringing countless benefits including improved water quality, temperature regulation, better air quality, flood prevention, runoff control, and enhanced biodiversity.
Our first pocket forest was created in partnership with Sustainable Canadore at the College Drive Campus of Canadore College. Explore the link below to see the network of forests that we're developing and how to get involved.
UN Economic Commission for Europe PIERS Training Courses
CAPACITY BUILDING
As part of UNECE’s capacity-building mandate, member states proposed and subsequently endorsed the development of training courses centred around PIERS. The goals of this educational programming are to broaden the awareness and understanding of PIERS, further empower governments and their partners to harness the full potential of this system and ensure a more sustainable, climate-resilient, and inclusive future through PPPs and infrastructure development.
The team at Beyond21 Academy is pleased to have the full support of the UNECE to develop and lead this training and capacity-building effort. Over the next year, we will be developing an asynchronous online course that will be available in late 2024 and an instructor-led course that will be available as of 2025.
Technology-driven Nature-based Solutions for Carbon Sequestration
APPLIED RESEARCH
The project aims to identify key factors influencing carbon sequestration in engineered micro forests, quantify the carbon storage potential of these forests, and develop strategies to optimize carbon uptake by measurement and analysis of indicators within Miyawaki forests planted across several locations in Ontario. Our enhanced understanding of nature-based carbon sequestration below and above ground will support effective and scalable climate action for organizations and communities in urbanized areas.
Net-Zero, Circular Accommodations
CLIMATE ACTION
In partnership with Long Point Eco-Adventure (LPEA), we are designing and establishing sustainable accommodations at their resort near Turkey Point, Ontario. The cabins will seamlessly blend into the natural landscape, showcasing a harmonious fusion of modern design and rustic charm. Strategically positioned to offer optimal privacy while maximizing panoramic views of the surrounding forest with net-zero carbon impact stemming from the combination of the design and the carbon balance of the pocket forest. The cabins will serve as tourism accommodations, a flagship for circular, net-zero design, as well as an educational hub.
Miyawaki Adventures
CLIMATE ACTION
The Miyawaki Adventures Project aims to establish an nature-based educational hub at Long Point Eco-Adventures (LPEA) resort in rural southern Ontario in the form of a network of small dense forests featuring architecturally-designed off-grid cabins nestled amidst the lush greenery.
The program will see the development of numerous pocket forests across the site as well as educational opportunities int the form of instructor-led, online, and self-guided learning.
Circular Economy for Climate Action
CLIMATE ACTION
In collaboration with Mohawk College's School of Climate Action, we are building the networks to tackle GHG emissions through innovation of material and by-product management. The program is bringing together designers, manufacturers, material management companies, and students to find solutions that support the transition to a net-zero, circular economy. Our goal is to reduce carbon emissions, reduce waste, and to valorize the by-products of companies.