With all of the sustainability issues facing society today – poverty, depletion of natural resources and global warming, to name a few – it’s reassuring to know that UBC scientists are actively working on finding solutions to create a healthier world.

A UBC environmental economist says contrary to what most people think, international trade is actually good for the planet.

“According to our data, a one per cent increase in international trade intensity leads the typical province in Canada to reduce its toxic releases by about 1.8 per cent,” says Assoc. Prof. Carol McAusland, Canada Research Chair in Trade and Environment.

When there’s only so much water to go around, who gets it and why?

It’s the land of majestic mountains, lavish terrain and plentiful waters. For Canadians today, their perception of the natural bounty that surrounds them knows no bounds. But in light of recent water contamination tragedies such as Walkerton and North Battleford, Canada’s most vital resource is proving that it is not as bountiful –  or safe – as it seems.

In 1994, Metro Vancouver was the first regional district in Canada to develop and adopt the Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP).

It all started with a fluke lightning strike in Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park during one of the driest summers on record. A spark ignited, and the flame spread quickly, forcing the evacuation of 45,000 residents and consuming 239 homes within days. For residents, the Okanagan wildfires of 2003 became well known as one of the worst disasters to ever affect the region.