Problem
Traditional building systems force businesses to choose between energy efficiency and human health, leading to energy-intensive legacy infrastructure that compromises indoor air quality and employee productivity.
Solution
Adopting Oxygen8's smart, high-performance ventilation system eliminates the "sustainability vs. productivity" trade-off by using energy recovery technology to deliver 100% fresh air while simultaneously slashing carbon footprints and operational costs.
Vancouver company Oxygen8 is proving that companies can achieve triple-win results with cleantech: productivity, quality of life, and lower emissions.
Cleantech companies often face an uphill battle when finding customers for their technology—a challenge that can make or break their success. However, companies like 2025 Foresight 50 honouree Oxygen8 are proving it is possible to bridge that gap.
We recently spoke with James Dean, CEO of Oxygen8, about the initial barriers his team faced in securing customers, how they approached scalability, and his perspective on the future of cleantech adoption. James offered a firsthand look at turning innovative solutions into real-world impact—and how cleantech adoption has numerous other benefits aside from reducing our carbon footprint.
Decoding the Tech
At the core of Oxygen8’s success is its innovative ventilation systems powered by a specialized membrane that delivers fresh air while minimizing greenhouse gas emissions. The system is fully electric and designed primarily for commercial spaces, including schools, senior care facilities, and retail environments. Their technology has seen tremendous success, having partnered with big brands like Aritzia and JPMorgan Chase & Co., among others.
Oxygen8’s low-profile units minimize the need for large mechanical systems on the roof or extensive ductwork, making it easier to install in small spaces and integrate it into existing systems. When implemented, each area of a building has its own dedicated ventilation system, reducing energy use and improving air quality for occupants. In just five and a half years, Oxygen8 has experienced rapid growth—stemming from a clear market need for healthier indoor air and Oxygen8’s ability to meet it with a compact, energy-efficient solution.
From Barriers to Breakthroughs
James credits several factors for Oxygen8’s rapid success. One key driver was partnering with heat pump manufacturer Daikin and integrating their technology into Oxygen8’s systems. By leveraging Daikin’s strong brand reputation, the company gained credibility and expanded into more commercial markets. Building a trusted network of HVAC Sales Representatives played a crucial role, as these established industry leaders helped promote their technology and connect with mechanical engineers and contractors.
James also highlighted how societal shifts can create unexpected opportunities for cleantech adoption. In early 2020, the onset of COVID-19 heightened awareness around indoor air quality, ventilation, and air purification, prompting schools and organizations to invest in upgrading HVAC systems. Although the pandemic brought manufacturing disruptions, it ultimately reinforced the relevance of Oxygen8’s mission. As James’s third startup, the company reflects his focus on assembling a team of industry experts and building the trust needed to scale a cleantech business effectively.
When asked about adoption barriers, James explained that success hinges on how easily a product integrates into existing systems. Since most modern buildings already rely on management systems for real-time air quality data, Oxygen8 designed its units to connect seamlessly. Crucially, by integrating controls and heat-pump coils directly in the factory, the company made on-site installation simple and consistent—a key factor that significantly de-risks cleantech adoption for buyers.
How Behaviour Shapes Cleantech Adoption
James emphasized that not every market values indoor air quality or energy efficiency equally. Many builders and developers focus on upfront costs rather than long-term performance. For that reason, Oxygen8 targets markets where owners also operate the buildings and have a vested interest in energy efficiency, such as rental properties, company-owned offices, and institutions like banks. Financial institutions in particular have been early adopters because they are guided by ESG commitments, employee wellness, and sustainability goals. They also tend to have the resources to invest in upgrading older buildings.
Finding customers who care about long-term value has been central to Oxygen8’s strategy. The company emphasizes that healthy buildings are not only better for the planet but also for productivity. For businesses, this translates into fewer sick days and higher employee output; for schools, better learning outcomes; and for senior facilities, improved quality of life.
Oxygen8 also frames its technology as a smarter use of space. In dense urban areas, rooftops are prime real estate, yet traditional HVAC systems occupy much of that space with bulky mechanical equipment. By taking a decentralized approach, Oxygen8 frees up the roof for architectural or functional use while reducing total installed costs. Shorter duct runs result in lower material and labour costs, easier maintenance, and greater reliability, as each zone operates independently. Beyond financial savings, the company continues to uncover new value propositions that align with market trends.
Looking Ahead
As Oxygen8 expands, it is focusing on high-performance buildings, including those built to Passive House standards that reduce heating and cooling energy by up to 90 percent. Rather than promoting individual products, the company aims to position its systems as part of the broader puzzle of sustainable, efficient, and healthy building design.
James explained that success in cleantech adoption goes beyond meeting minimum requirements or focusing solely on upfront costs. By helping large companies build more comprehensive business cases, Oxygen8 encourages them to consider benefits that impact their productivity goals and the well-being of their employees. Keeping an eye on emerging markets and thinking strategically about value, the company aims to continue demonstrating the real-world impact of sustainable, high-performance clean technologies.
Venture Snapshot
Company name: Oxygen8
Founded: 2019
Location: Vancouver, BC
Leadership: James Dean, CEO
Sectors: Energy, HVAC
Foresight services or recognitions: Foresight 50 Honouree (2025)
Foresight is accelerating the adoption of technologies across Canada that enhance profitability, boost efficiency, and drive environmental sustainability. Explore our Cleantech Adoption Services.
Oxygen8 is part of Foresight's Grow program, which is supported by Pacific Economic Development Canada.
