We know high vaccination rates will be a key ingredient for safely easing pandemic protocols within our own business. They’ll also be essential for ensuring a faster return to normal for all Canadians. That’s why Suncor has announced support for a national campaign to build vaccine confidence.

19 to Zero is a dedicated coalition of academics, public health experts, behavioural economists, and creative services professionals working to understand and help inform public perceptions around COVID-19 behaviours and vaccination. With Suncor’s support, 19 to Zero will be able to bolster their efforts to influence higher vaccination rates across the country.

“This is one more measure we’re taking to contribute to pandemic recovery, not only for our own operations but communities and economies across Canada,” says Sylvie Tran, VP, Environment, Health & Safety, and Suncor’s pandemic response lead.

Suncor has made an initial contribution of $150,000 to support 19 to Zero’s work. In addition, to encourage other organizations to join in this national campaign, Suncor will contribute $25,000 each for the next two organizations who join the campaign.

“Vaccines are the most effective way of getting Canada to the point where restrictions can be safely lifted,” says Sylvie. “19 to Zero has shown that data-driven informational campaigns can increase vaccine acceptance, and we want other organizations from a wide range of industries to join us in supporting this vital work.” 

19 to Zero launched at the University of Calgary in August 2020. Since then, it has conducted public health campaigns, produced a range of resources and facilitated engagements that are focused on encouraging safe behaviours and vaccinations and empowering Canadians and health professionals to take action. 

“Over the last 15 months, 19 to Zero has been working tirelessly to combat COVID misinformation, address vaccine hesitancy, build confidence in vaccines and reach out to communities across the country to inform and educate Canadians during the pandemic,” said Theresa Tang, Co-chair and Chief Operating Officer of 19 to Zero. “With the generous support of Suncor and other partner companies and organizations we are now even better equipped to continue this work.”

Supporting 19 to Zero is part of Suncor’s broader efforts to keep its workforce and the wider community safe. Suncor is also among over 100 organizations supporting the Faster Together campaign – a national, volunteer-based initiative designed to encourage uptake of COVID-19 vaccinations.