Brownfields & Beyond: Meggen Janes on Revitalising Contaminated Lands in Canada

In this episode of the Commercial Real Estate Podcast, hosts Aaron and Adam connect with Meggen Janes, Executive Director of the Canadian Brownfield Network and the principal at Geosyntec. Join them as they discuss the growing importance of addressing environmental contamination in commercial real estate. Meggen shares her insights on brownfield redevelopment, the challenges of navigating environmental permits, and the need for streamlined processes. The episode also highlights success stories and the lack of financial incentives for brownfield development in Canada compared to Europe and the US.

Topics covered include:

• Introduction to the episode and guest
• Importance of addressing environmental contamination in Canada
• Meggen’s background and experience in the industry
• Role of the Canadian Brownfields Network in reclaiming brownfield land
• Barriers to brownfield redevelopment
• Streamlining the approval process and aligning interests
• Off-site liability and risk mitigation
• Success stories of brownfield redevelopment in Toronto
• Lack of financial incentives and government support

More about our guest…

Meggen has worked in the Canadian brownfields sector for more than 25 years. Prior to joining Geosyntec in 2021, she was the Director of Soil and Groundwater Management and Brownfield Approvals at Waterfront Toronto. She spent six years on the CBN Board of Directors before being named executive director. She served the Board in a number of roles, including the past four years as the co-chair of the conference committee.

In her own words: “I’m enthusiastic for this new challenge, which allows me to continue engagement with my friends and colleagues in the Canadian Brownfields Network.” “Tammy has created a strong foundation for this organisation, and I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to further CBN’s expansion, enhance the membership value, and introduce new programming to reach both our long-standing and new members across the entire breadth of our country.”

Episode Resources

• Meggen Janes on LinkedIn
• Canadian Brownfield Network Website
•  Geosyntec Website
• Aaron Cameron on LinkedIn
• Adam Powadiuk on LinkedIn 
• First National Website

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