E. Schmidt, Research Project Manager with the Global Environment Measurement and Monitoring (GEMM) Group, provided an overview of the GEMM initiative, which focuses on four main areas: research collaborations, student opportunities, technology development (particularly in moving technologies into real-world conditions), and monitoring applications. The potential benefits for Kitchener were further explained, including collaboration with the city to identify gaps and challenges in measuring environmental parameters. This would encompass environmental monitoring and fostering research collaborations between the City and the GEMM.
Dr. P. Crank discussed research into fine-scale neighborhood design, specifically how neighborhood layout impacts climate. Efforts are underway to establish a larger network of environmental monitors embedded in streetlights and mobile measurement devices, which would track how heat is stored and trapped, providing valuable insights that could inform better neighborhood designs. Efforts to secure research grants for technology development and future partnerships with the city were also highlighted, with the aim of streamlining research collaborations moving forward.
V. Nhio-son raised the possibility of collaborating on tree canopy monitoring, which is currently being explored as part of the broader environmental monitoring initiative.
Cllr. Stretch inquired about the public availability of the data being collected. It was clarified that, while air data is currently being monitored in Victoria Park, heat data is not yet being collected. However, there is potential for co-locating heat data collection with air data in the future.
Dr. P. Crank also noted that as trees are planted in urban areas, their impact on air quality and pollen production will be measured. This could provide valuable data for urban planning and environmental health research.
J. Phan inquired whether socio-economic factors are being considered in relation to the air and heat data being collected. It was confirmed that socio-economic status and tree canopy coverage are correlated, with wealthier neighborhoods typically having higher tree canopy coverage. There is an opportunity to pair environmental data with census data for deeper insights.
P. Boot raised the question of whether heat and air quality data represent the limits of the technology being developed. In response, it was noted that while the initiative is focused on these areas, efforts are actively underway to connect various data points and expand the scope of data collection. P. Boot also inquired about connections with Transform WR and WR Connected to help identify data gaps. It was confirmed that fostering these connections is part of the ongoing efforts.
J. Clary-Lemon questioned the feasibility of installing monitoring equipment on city infrastructure. Cllr. Davey responded that while not impossible, further discussions are needed with operations and transportation staff to assess the practicality of such an initiative. Staff agreed to take this matter back for further evaluation.