INTERDISCIPLINARY
With the increasing complexity and scale of water challenges, it has never been more important for water researchers to work together to understand and apply the perspectives and contributions from disciplines outside their own.
51
INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH PROJECTS
supported through our Seed Grant program
174
FACULTY MEMBERS
from all six Waterloo faculties
24
DEPARTMENTS/SCHOOLS REPRESENTED
18
CANADA RESEARCH CHAIRS
from different Waterloo faculties
10 Calls to Action to Natural Scientists to enable reconciliation with Indigenous peoples
Heidi Swanson, Water Institute member and professor of Biology, co-authors a paper outlining 10 Calls to Action for Natural Scientists to enable reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians in their work.
These 10 Calls to Action challenge the scientific community to recognize that reconciliation requires a new way of conducting natural science, one that includes and respects Indigenous communities, rights, and knowledge leading to better scientific and community outcomes.
“It is our hope that the reflections, ideas, and resources that we present inspire and empower individual scientists to take tangible action towards Reconciliation in their research.”
Heidi Swanson
Watersheds, wildfires and water quality
Communities adjacent to forested regions are experiencing more frequent and destructive wildfires associated with a warming climate, exposing them to increased risk of catastrophic impacts, including the degradation of water resources.
Monica Emelko, Water Institute member and professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, is leading the forWater research network and interdisciplinary collaboration to find innovative solutions to address the impacts of climate change on forested source water, the downstream effects, water treatability and resource economics.
Water brings art and science together
When art and science come together effectively, new, different, and perhaps deeper understandings of complex environmental problems may be possible.
Water Institute member and professor of Environment, Resources and Sustainability Rob de Loë has launched a new program of art-making, scholarship, and teaching focused on using photography to bridge the gap between art and science.
de Loë is exploring the idea of engaging people through science-led art in order to evoke feelings from them that will, hopefully, lead to new perspectives on water issues and assertive action. He hopes that his photography can catalyze conversations around important water challenges that are rooted in science.
“I think art has the ability to open doors to important conversations about water.”
Rob de Loë
International
Learn about Water Institute members who are working with leading water organizations from around the world to tackle complex water problems.
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