The PEOPLE Network, led by Dr. Bing Chen, Professor, UArctic Chair and Interim Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science at Memorial University, has received the 2026 Water Canada Award in Education, recognizing its outstanding contributions to environmental education, interdisciplinary research training, and knowledge mobilization in Canada’s water sector.

Presented at the Water Canada Awards in Toronto on October 22, 2026, the award celebrates the PEOPLE Network’s innovative approach to preparing highly qualified personnel and supporting innovative and collaborative research to address complex water and environmental challenges.

Connecting Engineering, Research, and Real-World Solutions

The PEOPLE Network (Persistent, Emerging, and Organic Pollution in the Environment) was established in 2017 to advance scientific understanding and develop solutions for persistent and emerging environmental contaminants, including oil/PAHs, flame retardants, PFAS, micro/nano-plastics, pharmaceutical and personal care products (PPCPs), and other chemicals of concern under climate change.

Through support from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) CREATE program, the Network has developed a pan-Canadian and international consortium involving more than 60 institutions and 50 partners from five continents. By connecting environmental engineering and environmental sciences with expertise across disciplines (chemistry, ocean science, biology, microbiology, mathematics, geography, geochemistry, education, health science, etc.) and sectors (e.g., shipping, oil & gas, mining, chemical, energy, etc.), the Network supports collaborative research and translates scientific knowledge into practical applications.

From 2019 to 2026, the Network received the funding support of $1.65M from the Collaborative Research and Training Experience (CREATE) program of the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). The PEOPLE CREATE training program supported 106 highly qualified personnel, with women accounting for 60 per cent of participants. Together, trainees produced more than 300 knowledge outputs, including 125 peer-reviewed publications, 156 conference presentations, and 30 awards at national and international levels.

These accomplishments demonstrate the value of integrating research excellence with hands-on training, professional development, mentorship, and engagement with stakeholders across academia, government, and industry.

Recognizing a Culture of Collaboration

The award reflects the collective efforts of the PEOPLE Network’s trainees, faculty members, mentors, collaborators, and partners. Under Dr. Bing Chen’s leadership, the Network has strengthened Memorial University’s role in collaborative environmental research and in training professionals equipped to tackle emerging challenges in water quality and sustainability.

As the NSERC CREATE funding period concludes in 2026, the Network’s achievements provide a strong foundation for continued collaboration, knowledge exchange, and environmental innovation. The 2026 Water Canada Award in Education recognizes not only the Network’s research and training accomplishments, but also its broader contribution to developing the people and partnerships needed to build a more sustainable water future.

Learn more: PEOPLE Network — https://people-network.ca/ | 2026 Water Canada Awards Winners — https://watersummit.ca/2026-winners/