A research initiative led by Dr. Rachel Scholes from UBC Civil Engineering and funded by the British Columbia Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund (BCSRIF) is addressing the environmental impact of 6PPDQ, a toxic chemical produced from tire wear that poses a significant threat to sensitive aquatic species.
To better understand the spread and concentration of 6PPDQ in urban environments, over 100 water samples were collected from Metro Vancouver streams. This data has played a key role in shaping British Columbia’s new provincial water quality guideline for 6PPDQ, providing a regulatory framework to monitor and limit this pollutant in freshwater ecosystems.
Recognizing the need for both policy and direct intervention, the research team has also designed pilot bioretention systems to filter out contaminants before they enter local waterways. These systems, now installed along West King Edward Avenue in partnership with the City of Vancouver, capture and treat stormwater runoff, preventing harmful substances like 6PPDQ from reaching fish habitats.
Collaboration has been a cornerstone of this project, bringing together municipalities—including Vancouver, Surrey, and Burnaby—along with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), Kerr Wood Leidal (KWL), and Indigenous partners. By working across jurisdictions, the project is fostering a coordinated approach to addressing urban water pollution while integrating scientific research with community-driven solutions.
While this research is crucial for protecting aquatic ecosystems, it also has broader public health implications. Contaminants like 6PPDQ can make their way into drinking water sources and food chains, and can contribute to roadside air pollution, affecting both environmental and human health. By developing strategies to reduce tire-related pollution, this work contributes to cleaner water and air for communities, supporting healthier environments for both people and wildlife.