DEVELOPING INDUSTRY SOLUTIONS & OPPORTUNITIES
TO GROW A SUSTAINABLE ECONOMY
The Verschuren Centre for Sustainability in Energy and the Environment at Cape Breton University was established in 2009 on a legacy of environmental remediation to bring sustainable industry development to Cape Breton Island and the Province of Nova Scotia. We are uniquely positioned to address these challenges, with a dedicated team of researchers and students working toward innovative and sustainable solutions….IMAGINE THE POSSIBILITIES.


Located on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, home to world-class natural resources and Canada’s most progressive climate change laws, the Centre is well-positioned to undertake directly relevant research, and lead its application and governance. Verschuren Centre faculty, staff, and students draw inspiration from a collaborative approach to research. The Centre is also positively influenced by Cape Breton University’s diversely international campus population, the Island’s remarkable ecosystems, and the Centre’s design: one of the most sustainable university laboratories in Canada.
Research Themes
The Verschuren Centre (VC) is an industrial solutions, development and deployment centre, advancing sustainable resource management in our key fields of expertise - Renewable energy, Bio-processing, Aquaculture and Nano materials. We are directly engaged with, and responsive to, industry and economic development needs, providing opportunities for process and product development, technology improvement, and enhancements in sustainability.
When companies invest at the VC, they get results – in contrast with larger institutions where action is slower and return on investment not always evident. What makes the VC unique relates in part to the “living laboratory” at our doorstep: the surrounding biosphere lakes, the Atlantic Ocean and the natural resources of unmatched tidal, geothermal and wind energy, as well as world renowned ecosystems challenged by climate change indicative of global challenges. Our well-equipped state-of-the-art lab facility, plus demonstration capabilities (aquaculture, greenhouse & pilot bio-refinery), enable transformations from the research bench to pilot, which positions us perfectly to fill the void between bench and reality for technology advancement.
Upcoming Events
Engaging community and industrial partners in value creation and sustainability
Engaging community and industrial partners in value creation and sustainability hosted by the Verschuren
CBU Job/Career Fair
CBU’s Career Services Department will be hosting a Job/Career Fair on Wednesday, March 6th,
Meet & Greet with NSHA & NSHRF Representatives
Krista Connell, CEO of the Nova Scotia Health Research Foundation (NSHRF) and Gail Tomblin
Latest News
Verschuren Centre, New Dawn Partnership Benefits Seniors
Cape Breton Post
A new greenhouse program will see local seniors benefitting from
Message From the President: ERP Announcement
In an effort to invest in CBU’s future, and enhance the overall student experience,
Research Month to Showcase Impactful Research at CBU
March 1, 2018, officially kicks-off Cape Breton University’s third annual Research Month. This year,