Clean Water Conversations Flow at Envirolution
On Saturday 5 September, RGU’s OneWater Research and Innovation Centre showcased their “Drain of the Future” at NESCAN’s Envirolution.
The Science Behind Clean Water
The Drain of the Future project has been shaped by the expertise and vision of Bruce Petrie and Professor Linda Lawton from the School of Pharmacy, Applied Sciences and Public Health (SPASPH) and demonstrates how biochar (a form of charcoal created by heating organic material) could help remove different pollutants from surface runoff water.
The model features three miniature drains: two controls containing wood chips and gravel, and a third containing biochar. Coloured water acts as simulated runoff water that passes through each drain to compare the results and visually demonstrate how biochar could capture pollutants as water flows through a roadside drainage system.
The visibly clearer water emerging from the biochar drain immediately attracted children, teenagers and adults alike. Passers-by experienced the multiple uses of biochar including art supplies by drawing images in an art folder.
Engaging with the Public
It was a valuable opportunity to engage with a water-treatment approach different from my own research, while supporting the team in presenting the demonstration and communicating its science to the public. It was particularly rewarding to explain the science, answer questions and see people’s curiosity grow as they watched the treatment process in action.
The enthusiasm shown, particularly by children and young people, highlighted the importance of events like this in nurturing scientific curiosity in the next generation and helping them recognise how science can provide practical solutions to environmental challenges.
It was overall a brilliant experience combining scientific innovation, communication and meaningful public engagement.
The Envirolution Festival
Founded in Manchester in 2009, Envirolution has made a significant impact on local communities and the broader environment. Envirolution Aberdeen is a free, one-day, environmental festival held annually at Seaton Park, Aberdeen. Organised primarily by the NESCAN Hub (North East Scotland Climate Action Network), the festival focuses on engaging the public with climate action, sustainability, and the natural world in a fun, relaxed, and accessible environment.
Sustainable Development Goals
6 – Clean Water and Sanitation
11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities
17 – Partnerships for the Goals
