Grant: Canada Research Chairs

The research program is focused on understanding the complex connections between air pollution, health, and climate change. The main objectives are to improve our understanding of how air pollution affects communities, to develop effective strategies to reduce its impact, and to address the challenges posed by climate change on air quality. The research approach involves using advanced tools like low-cost sensors and mobile monitoring. This approach is applied to three main areas: studying emissions in the goods movement sector (marine-road-rail), optimizing sensor network design considering standard constraints in optimization research as well as planned policy changes, and investigating emerging sources like wildfire smoke and infiltration rates into community settings. One distinctive aspect of the program is its strong collaboration with stakeholders, policymakers, and the public. This involvement helps translate research findings into practical policy recommendations and actions. The novelty and importance of this research lies in its practical applications. The use of low-cost sensors and mobile monitoring techniques represents an innovative way to collect air quality data. The integration of health, environmental, and climate considerations provides a more complete perspective on how to address air pollution challenges. The research outcomes are expected to have significant real-world impacts. For example, insights from the emissions study in the goods movement sector could lead to targeted regulations to reduce pollutants or new policies on best practices for engines retrofits. Optimizing sensor networks with policy inputs could improve the efficiency of air quality monitoring. Additionally, studying emerging sources like wildfire smoke will provide valuable information for managing such events and protecting public health. Overall, this research program offers a practical and innovative approach to managing air quality challenges and adapting to climate change. Its unique methodology and potential for practical outcomes position it as a key driver for effective air quality management and climate adaptation efforts.