This brief synthesizes key findings from a series of studies led by Dr. Ryan Prosser at the University of Guelph on microplastics in Ontario biosolids, agricultural soils, and earthworms. Although it is not a comprehensive review of all available research on this topic, it incorporates relevant supporting literature to contextualize these findings and assess their [...]
On December 8, 2025, AtkinsRéalis presented to Canadian Water Network’s (CWN) Bioresources Strategic Sharing Group. The community of practice brings together Municipal Water Consortium members to exchange knowledge, stay ahead of emerging biosolids management trends and issues, and identify evolving solutions. This brief summarizes key lessons and perspectives shared during that session, drawing on the [...]
The City of Selkirk, located about 20 minutes north of Winnipeg, provides water and wastewater treatment services to roughly 10,500 residents. Its McLean Avenue water treatment plant is a two‑part facility, with the original building constructed in 1961 and a major addition completed in 2011. In 2018, the condition of the facility’s furnace, combined with [...]
In a country where more than 90 percent of communities are small or rural municipalities, resilience cannot be undertaken by large cities alone. Instead, it must be a shared endeavour that reflects the realities of communities everywhere. The City of Selkirk stands out as a leading example of how smaller municipalities can take meaningful, sustained [...]
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a serious and growing threat to human health. It is already causing significant illness and death worldwide, including in Canada. Without urgent action, AMR will continue to undermine the effectiveness of life-saving medical treatments and lead to major social and economic costs. To help water sector stakeholders better understand this emerging [...]
Sometimes the biggest opportunities are hiding in plain sight. Years ago, a sewer trunk line running beside Markham District Energy's Warden Energy Centre was viewed as an inconvenient constraint that would complicate the routing of thermal energy piping. Today, that same infrastructure is the foundation of what will become the largest wastewater energy transfer system [...]
How can municipalities start tackling wastewater emissions? We partnered with GHD to develop a new case study that explores how Canadian municipalities can build their first wastewater greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory — a critical step toward climate mitigation. Key takeaways: Municipalities typically choose between using an existing tool or developing a custom calculator. Publicly available [...]
Key insights Strategic rate increases can drive infrastructure renewal. Transparency builds public trust. Infrastructure investment must outpace decay. Conservation and financial sustainability can coexist. Clear prioritization of capital projects improves resource allocation. Read the full case study
As communities across Canada look for cost-effective ways to reduce emissions, Wastewater Energy Transfer (WET) systems offer an opportunity to reduce reliance on carbon intensive energy sources and leverage existing sewage infrastructure. This primer explores: How WET systems work. Canadian and international examples of WET systems. Key technical, economic, and policy considerations. Read the primer
Key insights Community-driven innovation: The Capital Regional District’s (CRD) biosolids strategy was shaped by strong public engagement and the board’s responsiveness to environmental concerns. Its shift from traditional disposal methods toward advanced thermal treatment reflects how municipalities are increasingly expected to align infrastructure decisions with evolving community values, such as environmental sustainability and public health [...]
