Our waterways can contain thousands of different toxic chemicals. Some can persist in the environment and accumulate in the bodies of animals; these ‘forever chemicals’ are harming wildlife and, ultimately, affecting humans too. What are these chemicals? Where do they come from? What impact do they have on the environment? And what can we do about it?
If you are an environmentalist, a scientist, or a concerned member of the public, join us for the first webinar in our Clean Water Champions series to learn all about toxic chemicals! Guest speakers will be discussing the diversity and volume of synthetic chemicals used across Canada, how they enter our waterways, the impact this is having on killer whales, the actions the government is taking to address this problem, and what we can do about it. PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) will be used as a case study to help us understand where these chemicals are coming from and what we can do about it.
These are interactive webinars that include guest speaker presentations, breakout room discussions, and a Q&A. Come and learn from environmental health and toxics experts from Environment and Climate Change Canada, BC Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, and Environmental Defence and take action to reduce water contaminants!
Speakers Bio
Shinjini Pilon is a Program Scientist with the Chemical Management Division at Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). Shinjini is part of the Whales Initiative Contaminants Team at ECCC, which is seeking to reduce the threat of contaminants to Southern Resident Killer Whales. Shinjini completed Master’s and PhD degrees at the University of Ottawa in Chemical and Environmental Toxicology. Her prior experience includes researching legacy pollutants in remote First Nations communities in Ontario and toxic algal blooms in several locations across Canada. She also has experience conducting Human Health and Ecological Risk Assessments for contaminated sites. When she’s not working, Shinjini enjoys being outdoors (canoe camping, cross country skiing, and frequenting neighbourhood parks with her daughter).
Muhannad Malas is the Toxics Program Manager at Environmental Defence. Environmental Defence is a group of innovative, passionate and determined problem-solvers who are working hard to protect Canada’s environment and human health. Growing up in different parts of the world allowed Muhannad to learn at an early age about the intricate links between the environment, human health and equity. After completing a master’s degree in public health policy at the University of Toronto, Muhannad helped develop and implement chronic disease prevention policies and environmental health frameworks for municipal and provincial governments. With his passion for fostering a healthy and just environment, Muhannad is working towards the elimination of toxic chemicals. Muhannad also maintains a strong interest in global health policy issues, regularly contributing to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s national healthcare reports. And as an avid soccer player, he coaches in the U of T Varsity Development program. When not at work, Muhannad can be found experimenting with ingredients in his kitchen and recreating Syrian-inspired dishes.
Angeline Tillmanns is a Senior Water Quality Guidelines Scientist at BC Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy and an Adjunct Professor in the School of Environmental Studies at the University of Victoria. The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy is responsible for the effective protection, management and conservation of BC’s water, land, air and living resources.
Lorrie Hayes is a Manager within the Chemicals Management Division at Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). Lorrie manages a team that is responsible for the risk management of persistent organic pollutants and asbestos and is the National Focal Point for Canada on the Stockholm Convention. Lorrie completed Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Chemical Engineering at the University of Ottawa and McGill, respectively. She has over 20 years experience working mainly on the development and implementation of regulations and other risk management instruments related to toxic chemicals. Outside of the office, Lorrie enjoys playing board games with her family and attending musical theatre performances.
Sea Smart
This webinar is hosted by Sea Smart, a Vancouver-based charity whose mission is to inspire and empower people to love and protect our ocean. We deliver online programs, beach cleanups, school workshops, and summer camps, among other impactful programs and events that help connect people to nature and learn about ocean sustainability.
Supporters
This webinar was organized with the financial support of Environment and Climate Change Canada. We are also thankful to our friends at NADA for being a promotional partner for our Clean Water Champions webinar series.