Sizable federal grant will contribute to eartquake, tsunami research
The federal government has been doling out substantial funds to national research facilities through the Canada Foundation for Innovation and the newest beneficiary is an organization whose research could have major implications relating to natural catastrophes and how they are insured. It was announced yesterday by federal Minister of Science Kirsty Duncan that Ocean Networks Canada (ONC), which is located at the University of Victoria in British Columbia, will be awarded an investment of $46.6 million over five years.
ONC's research contributes across the board to various initiatives such as public policy, economic development, environmental stewardship, and public education. It regularly partners with a wide range of industry and government organizations in order to help accomplish its goals.
Much of the ONC's work is based in observation. The research group has set up ocean observatories all across the west coast of Canada. Having this kind of access allows ONC to gather valuable data regarding earthquakes and tsunamis, pollution, oceanic behaviour as it relates to climate change, hazards, commercial activity management, and sovreignty or security issues.
According to president and CEO Kate Moran, it is also fiscally prudent. “Since its inception, ONC has applied its innovative technologies and expertise for the benefit of Canada and the world, helping to grow Canada’s diverse ocean technology industry with an overall return of $10 for every grant dollar invested,” she said in a press release put out by ONC.
Given that 2016 broke the record for insurable damage in Canada—with a final figure that was driven up significantly by the horrific Fort McMurray Wildfires—research that can better inform us about natural disasters and catastrophes is certainly welcome in 2017.