The Green Review

Universities play a crucial role in achieving a sustainable future, especially through their research. Considering this, we are excited to highlight individuals and groups at UNB that have dedicated their time to pursuing sustainability-related research.

Our newest Sustainability Research Champion is Liam Brennan

Research project
Tides of Change: Investigating Climate Impacts on the Bay of Fundy Ecosystem

Overview of your research project

Climate-driven ocean regime shifts can rapidly reshape marine ecosystems, affecting species from seabirds to endangered whales. In the Bay of Fundy, species such as the North Atlantic right whale depend on dense prey aggregations that are sensitive to changing ocean conditions. As these dynamics shift, my project combines field-based oceanography, ecological modelling, and photography to understand and explain climate impacts on one of Canada's most dynamic marine ecosystems.

How does your work intersect with sustainability?

In my view, the rigorous documentation of climate impacts is an important first step in mobilizing sustainable climate and conservation action – especially as it pertains to endangered species.

What impact do you hope this research will have?

I hope our work can be integrated in endangered species management planning. The general idea is that if we can better understand habitat change for species like the North Atlantic Right Whale, we can make more informed decisions about where conservation measures will be most effective. I also hope that our public outreach strategy which includes photography and videography will help engage a broader group of Canadians about our work as well as all those who are interested in the general well-being of the Bay of Fundy ecosystem.

Where can people find information about your work?

Learn more about my project and general work.

Know someone who should be a Sustainability Research Champion? Tell us about them by filling out our nomination form!