Dr. Brian Hunt, a faculty member of the UBC Biodiversity Research Centre, has been awarded a 2024 Wall Research Award for Individual Faculty, recognizing his work on urban coastal sustainability. His project, The Sustainable Urban Ocean, investigates the ecological impacts of urbanization on coastal waters, focusing on nutrient changes caused by sewage, wastewater, stormwater, and urbanized watersheds.
By addressing the often-overlooked consequences of urban nutrient additions, Dr. Hunt’s research aims to evaluate ecosystem responses and provide actionable insights for sustainable development and restoration of coastal environments. This work not only supports healthy ecosystem function but also seeks to preserve the biodiversity and productivity of urban oceans—resources crucial to Indigenous and settler communities alike.
This award reflects Dr. Hunt’s commitment to addressing the challenges posed by urbanization and ensuring sustainable futures for British Columbia’s coastal ecosystems.