Provincial Investment Ensures Research and Innovation will Continue
Ontario and the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) have signed an agreement to continue vital freshwater research at the Experimental Lakes Area — the only freshwater research facility of its kind in the world.
The agreement means scientists and researchers can begin important work in time for the 2014 field season. Among this year’s projects, the IISD, researchers and university scientists plan to:
- Explore the ecological risks associated with the release of tiny particles called nanomaterials into the environment. For example, nanosilver is used in garment manufacturing to stop bacteria and odour.
- Monitor lake recovery from mercury, commonly found in coal-plant emissions. Ontario recently closed its last coal-fired energy-generating station, which is producing significant health and environmental benefits for Ontarians.
The Experimental Lakes Area is a world-renowned freshwater research facility in northwestern Ontario. It attracts scientists from around the world who conduct research that informs pollution reduction and climate change strategies, and protection of freshwater ecosystems. This research supports our understanding of the many threats to clean water and how we can protect our lakes and rivers right here in Ontario, across the country and around the world.
Investing in research and innovation is part of the government’s economic plan that is creating jobs for today and tomorrow. The comprehensive plan and its six priorities focus on Ontario’s greatest strengths — its people and strategic partnerships.
Quick Facts
- The Experimental Lakes Area was established in 1968 and is approximately 50 kilometres southeast of Kenora.
- In the 1970s, research at the Experimental Lakes Area identified that acid rain could lead to freshwater fish deaths.
- Ontario has committed up to $2 million per year to keep the Experimental Lakes Area open.
