Understanding Our Climate and its Relationship With Water, Energy and Public Health
Sound management of Canada’s natural resources requires a proper understanding of the evolving spatial and temporal characteristics of a number of hydroclimatic variables. For example, the ability to map renewable energy potential is based on a sound assessment of water flow for hydraulic energy and wind speed and direction for wind power.
The work being done by Dr. Taha Ouarda, Canada Research Chair in Statistical Hydroclimatology, and his team falls into three main categories: local and regional assessment of hydrological and climatic variables; assessment of renewable energy potential; and modelling of the link between hydroclimatic variables and public health.
Their long-term objective is to develop an integrated framework for modelling the risk associated with hydroclimatic variables. For example, they plan to assess the conditions that could lead to a devastating heat wave combined with extreme and lasting drought, as well as the serious impact this could have on agriculture, water systems and public health.
Ouarda and his team are conducting theoretical and practical research that could be applied by private, public or para-public organizations. With its major industrial, environmental, economic and social spinoff potential, this research should help reduce the uncertainty of assessments related to the planning of hydraulic work. It should also improve our ability to plan renewable energy development activities and develop health services planning models.