Reducing Chemical Risks in Urban Runoff

In Burnaby, construction projects are required to treat the wastewater that runs off sites before it enters the drainage system. However, with climate change, these measures are sometimes overwhelmed when excessive rainfall occurs.

To address this problem, the Lab is working with SFU Biological Sciences professors Dr. Jane Fowler and Dr. Vicki Marlatt to investigate potential chemicals, called flocculants, to help better manage wastewater from construction sites. This project focuses on assessing and testing potential flocculants with a focus on the safety of the overall ecosystem, including fish and other aquatic life.

The project is also developing a process to assess environmental risks for future potential chemicals that may become available, with the goal of helping Burnaby and other cities to make informed decisions that protect waterways, wildlife, and community health.