Professor Alice Roberts discusses whether we can make water safe for all with Prof. Iseult Lynch and the UoB Institute of Advanced Studies Vanguard Fellow, Dr. Adenike Akinsemolu on episode 4 of the Curiosity Vault. Iseult talks about our research on microplastics, nanoparticles, PFAS and other water pollutants as well as daphnia (#daphniaLove) as both a tool for exploring the impacts of pollutants on ecosystem and human health, and as a solution for remediation of pollution (with a shout-out to the exciting research of other Water Challenges researchers Prof. Luisa Orsini, Dr. Mohamed Abdallah and Prof. Stefan Krause on using resurrected daphnids as bioremediators).
The conversation also explores the potential to merge technological advances in nano-materials sensors with nature-based solutions such as biochar and biomass for bioremediation, and harnessing nanotechnologies for solar-powered water purification in areas that are lacking access to energy and water infrastructures for local at-home solutions. Adenike shared some of the immediate issues she faces in her research related to oil spills, and how climate change has exacerbated challenges such as food security, gender-based violence, and socio-economic disparities. Iseult and Adenike also co-hosted the UoB World Water day activities in March 2023, so it was really fun to chat together with Alice and explore further overlaps and interlinks between our common interest and contrasting approaches to ensuring safe water for all.
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