Research Applications
HydroFATE has been developed using best-available information and modelling techniques. Applied and validated at both regional and global scales, it has versatile applications for research, policymaking, and industry.
Potential applications
HydroFATE was initially developed to model the fate of pharmaceuticals originating from human consumption and has since been validated for this purpose. Building on its proven capabilities, we are now extending its application to a broader range of pollutants and environmental pathways. Below are potential applications where HydroFATE can provide valuable support:
Wastewater Treatment Standards
Projects aimed at revising existing regional wastewater treatment standards, upgrading current facilities, or deploying new ones. For example, HydroFATE can be used to:
- • Create scenarios to explore the impacts of proposed changes in wastewater treatment reglations and objectives at local, regional, or broader scales
- • Evaluate the utility of deploying advanced treatment technologies for substances with higher risk
- • Determine the combined impacts of multiple facilities that are located in linked watersheds
Environmental Impact Studies
Research tracking the spread of contaminants through water systems and their impact on aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity. For example, HydroFATE can be used to:
- • Guide field measurements in rivers to assess impacts of contaminants of emerging concern as well as legacy chemicals
- • Identify those substances that present greater risks and prioritize them for action
- • Assess the impacts of new substances before they are introduced into the market
- • Simulate the impacts of climate change impact on contaminant distribution, especially in light of anticipated changes in river flows
Public Health Research
Studies examining the extent of the implications of water contamination on human health and communities. For example, HydroFATE can be used to:
- • Evaluate exposure and support risk assessments for substances currently in use or those that are under development
- • Correlate the occurrence of contaminants with health impacts (e.g., the cumulative presence of antibiotics in rivers and the occurrence of antibiotic resistance
- • Assess the potential impacts of short-term episodes that may result in widespread deployment of medications (e.g. epidemics or pandemics)
- • Prioritize the development of safer chemicals that are designed to degrade in natural waters