Tom Gleeson
Advancing water research
Champions of change
UVic is solving complex challenges facing the world’s most crucial and life-sustaining resource—water. The Groundwater Science and Sustainability research group, led by UVic Civil Engineering’s Tom Gleeson, advances research ensuring water security close to home and around the world.
Driven by the desire to have a meaningful and lasting impact, Gleeson’s research concentrates on the invisible water source beneath our feet. Groundwater is said to be the most reliable source of freshwater on the planet—if it is sustainably managed.
“I love being outside in nature, I care deeply about people and the environment, and I love solution-oriented science,” says Gleeson. “These three things led me to this passion for water science and sustainability and give me the drive to do science and engineering that’s useful for people and the planet.”
Climate, environmental change & sustainability
Human impacts on the environment have accelerated on a devastating scale. UVic researchers and artists integrate their broad areas of expertise into innovative solutions and transformative actions.
We address the urgent challenges facing oceans, lands, human wellbeing and the economy. Our work contributes to many areas, including climate policy, smart sustainable cities, water security, ocean and climate science, and ecosystem conservation.
About civil engineering
At UVic, we focus on green civil engineering with courses that emphasize sustainability, the environment and civic engagement. We respect and include Indigenous cultural and historical perspectives and knowledge in our approach.
As the greenest civil engineering department in Canada, we are responding to global environmental challenges with practical design solutions.
Stories
COP29: Returning carbon to the ground is net zero
The Conversation: COP29: Returning carbon to the ground is net zero
UVic Surfrider drives switch to Reusable Cups
The University of Victoria (UVic) has launched an innovative pilot project that could help redefine how the campus community consumes beverages on the go. The collaborative project, led by the Surfrider...
New research puts climate policies to the test
An international research team found only 63 out of 1500 climate policies have led to substantial emissions reductions over the past two decades. The groundbreaking study published in Science reveals...
Driving sustainability forward
Akash Mohanty is one of a dozen students driving sustainability forward on Vancouver Island through the University of Victoria’s Sustainability Scholars program, a unique graduate program that offers...