April 29, 2025– Edmonton, AB – The Canadian Underground Infrastructure Innovation Centre (CUIIC) at the University of Alberta is pleased to announce funding from Alberta Innovates to support research into better integration of natural wetlands into new urban development.
This funding will support the research project “Developing a Collaborative and Interdisciplinary Framework for Enhancing Sustainable Stormwater Management Through Existing Wetlands”, which aims to encourage the integration of natural wetlands into new urban development.
Urban development across Canada has led to significant loss of vital wetland ecosystems. This project seeks to address the pressing need for decision-making frameworks that support the preservation and integration of existing natural wetlands in urban planning.
“This funding is an essential step towards fostering sustainable urban development while preserving valuable wetland ecosystems,” said Dr. Alireza Bayat, Director of CUIIC. “With the support of Alberta Innovates and our 16 partner organizations, we are tackling the challenge of urbanization and environmental preservation through collaboration and innovation.”
The multidisciplinary team, led by applicant Dr. Alireza Bayat and co-applicants Dr. William Zhang, Dr. Leila Hashieman, and Dr. Maricor Arlos, is eager to address the critical challenge of preserving natural wetlands within expanding urban landscapes.
Sixteen partner organizations, including developers, utility providers, contractors, consultants, and municipalities, are contributing to the research outlined in this project. These partnerships ensure that the outcomes will be applicable in real-world urban development projects.
Founded in 2022, the Canadian Underground Infrastructure Innovation Centre (CUIIC) is a national initiative based at the University of Alberta. With partners and members spanning across Canada, CUIIC is dedicated to advancing sustainable, cost-effective underground infrastructure solutions through research, training, and industry collaboration.
For more information on CUIIC’s Research Projects, please click here.
Media Contact:
Alyscia Sutch
Research Marketing and Communications Coordinator
Canadian Underground Infrastructure Innovation Centre
University of Alberta
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