Partnership to prevent pollution in Melbourne's waterways

A five-year, $5 million partnership between RMIT University and Melbourne Water will see experts in aquatic ecology and pollution research join forces to help combat pollution in Melbourne’s waterways and bays.

According to RMIT’s Pro Vice-Chancellor Science, Engineering and Health, Professor Peter Coloe, “The growing pressure from increasing population and urban development means it is vital to gain a greater understanding of current, new and emerging aquatic pollutants. Understanding how toxic chemicals and other pollutants are affecting our ecosystems, plants and animals is a key concern for us.”

Professor Peter Coloe said RMIT is looking forward to working with Melbourne Water to develop innovative ways to minimise the detrimental effects of aquatic pollutants and to boost the health of the community’s waterways. The research team will be led by high-profile researcher Dr Vincent Pettigrove along with RMIT University Professor of Ecotoxicology Dayanthi Nugegoda.

“Professor Nugegoda and Dr Vincent Pettigrove share an excellent track record in environmental toxicology and this partnership will build on their extensive scientific expertise and research success in this area,” said Professor Coloe.

“This exciting new partnership gives us an excellent opportunity to expand our research in an area that is of global importance.”

Melbourne Water’s Manager of Applied Research, Dr Judy Blackbeard, said the work will support the protection and preservation of one of our most valuable resources, stating, “This new partnership is a great opportunity to further protect our waterways and bays from pollution, and work with leading researchers and institutions to ensure the best outcomes for the environment.”

Key elements of the research will include:

• investigating pollutants including pesticides, industrial pollutants, and subtle and emerging pollutants such as nanoparticles and pharmaceuticals;
• developing new ways to monitor and assess the risk of aquatic pollution;
• focusing on chemicals that affect aquatic plants and animals;
• identifying effective options to reduce aquatic pollution in waterways.
   

The partnership will include a new research centre for aquatic pollution located at RMIT University’s School of Science, Bundoora West Campus.

Images courtesy of Melbourne Water.