Forecasting pollution in the future
Pollution is now threatening the ability of our industries to compete internationally—meaning it is time to take a serious look at the sustainable use of our resources. Canada’s economic success and the quality of life of its citizens will require better understanding of pollutants in the environment.
Where do pollutants come from, where do they go, and what happens in the process? Dr. Julian Aherne, Canada Research Chair in Environmental Modelling, is searching for answers to these and other questions. Aherne is doing so by developing, evaluating and using computer models to help improve our understanding and management of pollutants in the environment.
Aherne is analyzing soil, water and air samples in the lab and is using that data to create equations and formulas as the basis for computer models. These tools will provide him with a fast-forward look at what would eventually happen to the pollutants in the soil, water and air.
Aherne’s ability to successfully model what pollutants are doing now will allow researchers to predict what they will do in the future. Unlocking these mysteries will allow us to forecast our future environmental status, and to make decisions today that will enhance the quality of our natural environment, and our wellbeing, tomorrow.