Saturday, September 25, 2010

Weekly science policy roundup

Sep 23, 2010
Rob Annan
Researcher Forum
http://dontleavecanadabehind.wordpress.com/2010/09/23/weekly-science-policy-roundup/
Sep 22, 2010
Tavia Grant
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/economy/how-to-cure-canadas-innovation-woes/article1717433/
Economic Action Plan invests in the knowledge economy, skilled workforce
Sep 24, 2010
Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Government-of-Canada-Supports-Science-and-Engineering-Graduates-in-Southern-Ontario-1324634.htm
Sep 22, 2010
Sheryl Ubelacker
The Canadian Press
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/three-canadians-predicted-as-contenders-for-nobel-prizes/article1717824/
U of T program has engineering students help in plan to revive creativity
Sep 23, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/23/million-acts-innovation.html
Biologists have brought rigour to psychology, sociology and even economics. Now they are turning their attention to the softest science of all: management
Sep 23, 2010
The Economist
http://www.economist.com/node/17090697

Canada lags behind in ICT

Country needs digital strategy, experts say
Sep 20, 2010
Bruce Johnstone
The Leader-Post
http://www.leaderpost.com/health/Canada+lags+behind/3548534/story.html
Sep 22, 2010
The StarPhoenix
http://www.thestarphoenix.com/opinion/Tight+restrictions+scientists+public+disservice/3560785/story.html?cid=megadrop_story
Sep 19, 2010
Bruce Cheadle
The Canadian Press
http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/article/863468--new-rules-restrict-government-scientists-from-speaking-to-media
'I sincerely apologize for any confusion,' Linda Buck writes
Sep 23, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/23/buck-science-retraction-smell.html
Sep 24, 2010
Tom Spears
The Ottawa Citizen
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/technology/Book+review+Ecologist+David+Suzuki+sums+fears+hopes/3576492/story.html

Warning from an elder

Sep 24, 2010
Trent Edwards
Calgary Herald
http://www.calgaryherald.com/business/David+Suzuki+doesn+mince+words+environment/3569231/story.html

Canada needs energy plan

Sep 24, 2010
David Suzuki and Faisal Moola
Times & Transcript
http://timestranscript.canadaeast.com/opinion/article/1232889
'You will have hunger and social unrest,' researcher warns
Sep 24, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/24/groundwater-study-depletion.html
Sep 24, 2010
Bradley Bouzane
Postmedia News
http://www.montrealgazette.com/technology/Canada+ahead+game+groundwater+drain+Expert/3576298/story.html
The Alberta government, facing growing concerns about the impact of oil sands operations, is bringing together scientists to try to resolve whether the industry is poisoning surrounding rivers, lakes and groundwater
Sep 24, 2010
Dean Bennett
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/prairies/alberta-unveils-plan-to-study-oil-sands-impact-on-water-quality/article1723975/
Sep 24, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/24/edmonton-alberta-oilsands-committee.html
Sep 24, 2010
Dan Healing
Calgary Herald
http://www.montrealgazette.com/business/Independent+scientists+will+review+Alberta+data+oilsands+water/3575001/story.html
Sep 24, 2010
Karen Selick
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/raw-milk-fans-are-getting-a-raw-deal/article1722070/
Sep 24, 2010
Toronto Star
http://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorials/article/865651--far-north-act-blueprint-for-the-future
Montreal-based Averna also recognized as a Canadian Innovation Leader
Sep 24, 2010
NATIONAL RESEARCH COUNCIL CANADA
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Economic-Action-Plan-Supports-Communication-and-Electronics-Innovation-in-Quebec-1324645.htm
Sep 24, 2010
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/NAFO-Takes-Further-Action-Rebuild-Groundfish-Stocks-Protect-Vulnerable-Marine-Ecosystems-1324991.htm
Sep 24, 2010
Ray Grigg
Courier-Islander
http://www.canada.com/Exasperation+Politics+Inaction/3571039/story.html

National Organic Week

Sep 24, 2010
Nickie Polson
Courier-Islander
http://www.canada.com/National+Organic+Week/3571040/story.html
Joins Wal-Mart, Loblaws in setting sustainable fishing policies
Sep 23, 2010
The Canadian Press
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/23/con-metro-fish.html
Government not ‘putting its money where its mouth is’
Sep 23, 2010
Hanneke Brooymans
Edmonton Journal
http://www.vancouversun.com/business/Alberta+cutting+spending+environmental+monitoring+oilsands+labour+boss/3570721/story.html
Wants to work with environmentalists to find 'progressive solution'
Sep 23, 2010
Hanneke Brooymans
Edmonton Journal
http://www.vancouversun.com/business/Environmental+groups+skeptical+about+industry+offers+dialogue/3565207/story.html

Defending the oil sands

Sep 23, 2010
National Post
http://www.nationalpost.com/opinion/Defending+sands/3565626/story.html
Sep 23, 2010
Debra Black
Toronto Star
http://www.thestar.com/news/sciencetech/science/article/865566--how-coming-solar-storms-could-cripple-economy
Sep 23, 2010
Lesley Ciarula Taylor
Toronto Star
http://www.thestar.com/news/world/article/865411--canada-far-fatter-than-most-rich-countries-study
Funding to Avalon Microelectronics will help develop custom microchips for semi-conductor industry
Sep 23, 2010
NATIONAL RESEARCH COUNCIL CANADA
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Government-of-Canada-Supports-Innovative-Research-and-Development-in-St-Johns-1323886.htm
Sep 22, 2010
Bradley S. Klapper and Frank Jordans
The Associated Press
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/technology/science/physicists-excited-by-recent-results-from-large-hadron-collider/article1719252/
Sep 22, 2010
Rob Ferguson and Tanya Talaga
Toronto Star
http://www.thestar.com/news/sciencetech/environment/article/864660--great-lakes-getting-dirtier-watchdog-warns
Sep 22, 2010
Gord Miller
Toronto Star
http://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorialopinion/article/864502--ontario-on-front-line-of-climate-change
Canada's largest energy company is partnering with the country's biggest miner to develop a major wind farm project in Alberta
Sep 22, 2010
The Canadian Press
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/industry-news/energy-and-resources/teck-suncor-partner-on-wind-power-project/article1718742/
Sep 22, 2010
The Canadian Press
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/22/world-water-congress-cp.html
Sep 22, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/22/bc-eye-of-the-wind.html
Ottawa-based GasTOPS Ltd. recognized as a Canadian Innovation Leader
Sep 22, 2010
NATIONAL RESEARCH COUNCIL CANADA
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Economic-Action-Plan-Supports-Research-and-Development-at-Ottawa-Manufacturer-1323181.htm

The Fallacy of 'Ethical Oil'

Better to describe Canada's oil sands crude as 'the devil's tears.'
Sep 22, 2010
Andrew Nikiforuk
TheTyee.ca
http://thetyee.ca/Opinion/2010/09/22/EthicalOilFallacy/

Africa must learn to feed itself

The way to an agricultural revolution in Africa has long been clear: Promote research, put the latest technology in the hands of the farmers and boost investment in rural infrastructure. It is the will that has been missing – at least until now, if we heed a rising chorus of African leaders.
Sep 21, 2010
Roger Thurow
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/africa-must-learn-to-feed-itself/article1717277/
Sep 21, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/21/edible-plants-lane-anderson-ernest-small.html
B.C. regulators promise to investigate
Sep 21, 2010
Kathy Tomlinson
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/british-columbia/story/2010/09/20/bc-acupuncturebilling.html
Sep 21, 2010
Environment Canada
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Minister-Prentice-Discusses-Energy-and-Climate-With-Major-Economies-1322616.htm
Sep 21, 2010
Ryan Bromsgrove
The Gateway
http://thegatewayonline.ca/articles/opinion/2010/09/21/science-subject-political-agenda
Sep 20, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/20/neb-arctic-offshore-drilling-review.html
After enduring a barrage of attacks that rehashed environmental hazards associated with developing Western Canada’s oil sands, Alberta’s provincial government has gone on the offensive
Sep 20, 2010
Tim Kiladze
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/industry-news/energy-and-resources/alberta-launches-oil-sands-pr-campaign/article1715539/
New battery technology needed, says e-car firm VP
Sep 20, 2010
Emily Chung
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/20/electric-cars-battery.html
Sep 19, 2010
Mitch Potter
Toronto Star
http://www.thestar.com/news/world/article/863091--first-nations-leaders-in-d-c-to-urge-politicians-to-reject-oilsands-pipeline

Balance in far north bill

Sep 19, 2010
Toronto Star
http://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorials/article/862982--balance-in-far-north-bill
Alberta is showing the way for nations with similar reserves. Brace for a global 'age of tough oil.'
Sep 9, 2010
Geoff Dembicki
TheTyee.ca
http://thetyee.ca/News/2010/09/09/OilSandsWorld/
Saturday, September 18, 2010

Blogging science

Three guys, three PhDs in science (one pending), write three blogs on science policy. Their blog posts – and personal lives – provide interesting insights into the state of science training in Canada today.
Sep 13, 2010
Léo Charbonneau
University Affairs
http://www.universityaffairs.ca/blogging-science.aspx
From an oregano water filter to sonic drills, these inventors and whiz kids rose to the top
Sep 16, 2010
Virginia Galt
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/your-business/business-categories/innovation/bright-minds-win-innovation-awards/article1710084/
Thirteenth in a series of expert analysis articles on major issues in the 2010 N.B. election
Sep 13, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/nbvotes2010/story/2010/09/12/nbvotes-analysis-environment-305.html
Sep 15, 2010
Genome Canada
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Genome-Canada-Chair-Elected-to-the-Royal-Society-of-Canada-1319771.htm
Documents reveal federal researchers, whose work is financed by taxpayers, need approval from Ottawa before speaking with media
Sep 12, 2010
MARGARET MUNRO
Postmedia News
http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Tightened+muzzle+scientists+Orwellian/3515345/story.html

What if Galileo were here?

Renaissance man wouldn't have caused uproar because Tories would have him silenced
Sep 15, 2010
Graham Thomson
Edmonton Journal
http://www.edmontonjournal.com/opinion/What+Galileo+were+here/3526525/story.html?cid=megadrop_story

Off with the muzzles

Sep 15, 2010
The Ottawa Citizen
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/technology/with+muzzles/3526055/story.html

Harper's censure

Vetting scientists, muzzling media
Sep 15, 2010
The Windsor Star
http://www.windsorstar.com/opinion/Harper+censure/3525822/story.html

Media chill

Control of 'ice age' story is troubling
Sep 15, 2010
Calgary Herald
http://www.calgaryherald.com/technology/Media+chill/3527204/story.html
Sep 14, 2010
Vancouver Sun
http://www.vancouversun.com/technology/Muzzling+scientists+offends+principle+public+service/3521456/story.html
Sep 13, 2010
John Geddes
Macleans
http://www2.macleans.ca/2010/09/13/federal-scientists-should-be-allowed-to-speak-up/
Influential rankings put nine schools in top 200, with University of Toronto edging out McGill for the top spot in Canada, using new yardstick for excellence
Sep 16, 2010
Simon Beck and Adrian Morrow
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/canadas-universities-make-the-grade-globally/article1709616/
Sep 16, 2010
Norman Spector
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/second-reading/spector-vision/in-higher-education-we-dont-own-the-podium/article1709620/
Sep 16, 2010
Rob Annan
Researcher Forum
http://dontleavecanadabehind.wordpress.com/2010/09/16/canadas-universities-ranked-again/
Sep 16, 2010
Leo Charbonneau
University Affairs
http://www.universityaffairs.ca/margin-notes/another-week-another-international-university-ranking/

Canada lacks innovation

Global competitiveness report delivers a low grade for our country, placing it well behind the U.S., Japan, Germany, Sweden and Switzerland
Sep 16, 2010
DAVID CRANE
The Gazette
http://www.montrealgazette.com/business/Canada+lacks+innovation/3531837/story.html
Drug companies' hopes for a cure are dashed. Ottawa has been slow to listen. Now leading scientists are taking action
Sep 17, 2010
Carolyn Abraham
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/health/dementia/dementia-researchers-feel-blocked-by-ottawa-big-pharma-medical-dogma/article1712597/

No science? no worries

Getting a C in chemistry may not be a barrier to that white coat, as med schools reassess their admissions
Sep 13, 2010
Carson Jerema
Macleans
http://oncampus.macleans.ca/education/2010/09/13/no-science-no-worries/
Alward will press Ottawa for more funds if elected premier, Graham would create bursary program to increase number of workers
Sep 17, 2010
Adam Huras
Telegraph-Journal
http://nbbusinessjournal.canadaeast.com/journal/article/1222396
Sep 13, 2010
Daniel McHardie
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/nbvotes2010/story/2010/09/12/nbvotes-environmental-science-decisions-election-936.html
Sep 15, 2010
Andre Picard
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/health/health-ministers-stop-micromanaging-ms-research/article1708482/
Group setting aside $1-million for new treatment for multiple sclerosis called liberation therapy
Sep 16, 2010
Gloria Galloway
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/health/ms-society-of-canada-to-fund-controversial-procedure/article1710340/
Health Minister Leona Aglukkaq says trials could start as soon as she receives research findings
Sep 14, 2010
The Canadian Press
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ms-treatment-trials-possible-ottawa-says/article1707560/
Health ministers meeting in St. John’s also take on sodium targets and isotope compensation
Sep 14, 2010
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/aglukkaq-calls-for-more-cohesive-approach-on-ms-studies/article1707811/
Research projects include using ultrasound to track chemotherapy progress and how to stop blood flow to tumours
Sep 16, 2010
Carys Mills
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/health/terry-fox-foundation-to-give-148-million-to-four-hospitals-for-cancer-research/article1710395/
New program will strengthen economy by bringing promising technology to market
Sep 14, 2010
Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Government-of-Canada-Promotes-Jobs-and-Growth-in-Southern-Ontario-1318580.htm
Is it too much to expect research to trump dogma?
Sep 13, 2010
Shari Graydon
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/matter-of-fact-if-only-government-decisions-were/article1703291/
Federal environment minister reacts to diseased fish in Athabasca waters
Sep 17, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/17/edmonton-prentice-polluted-fish-athabasca.html
Prentice, saying he’s ‘disgusted’ by images of deformed fish from the Athabasca River, will review agency overseeing province’s water quality
Sep 17, 2010
Josh Wingrove
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/albertas-water-watchdog-under-tighter-scrutiny-over-oil-sands/article1712995/
'69% of nothing is nothing', says retired Newfoundland fisheries executive
Sep 17, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/17/cod-population-science-517.html

Unmistakable Warming

Sep 17, 2010
Ray Grigg
Courier-Islander
http://www.canada.com/Unmistakable+Warming/3536881/story.html
Our health system is woefully unprepared for the oncoming crisis. So today, The Globe and Mail presents a seven-point plan to grapple with it.
Sep 17, 2010
André Picard
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/health/dementia/why-canada-needs-a-national-strategy-on-dementia/article1712700/
In the new world of fearless senior citizens, there is a largely hidden group that should not be forgotten. Those who have dementia will be a large and growing, and difficult-to-care-for, population.
Sep 17, 2010
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/editorials/kick-at-the-darkness-to-fight-dementia/article1712722/
Sep 16, 2010
Hanneke Brooymans
Postmedia News
http://www.montrealgazette.com/life/Deformed+fish+found+near+Alberta+oilsands+developments/3535749/story.html
Deformed fish found in Athabasca watershed
Sep 16, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/16/edmonton-oilsands-deformed-fish.html
Scientists, aboriginals concerned after fish taken from Lake Athabasca have tumours and lack snouts, spines
Sep 16, 2010
Bob Weber
The Canadian Press
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/prairies/mutant-fish-lead-to-calls-for-ottawa-to-monitor-oil-sands/article1711070/
Sep 16, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/16/electric-car-technology-project-eve.html
Sep 16, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/16/pei-modified-salmon-environmentalist.html
Atlantic cod population recovering, though still far short of 1960s levels
Sep 16, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/16/cod-grand-banks-wwf-nafo.html
Federal funding supports quest for new discoveries in Ontario
Sep 16, 2010
Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Government-of-Canada-Supports-Development-Opportunities-in-Oshawa-1320183.htm
We have a responsibility to protect the legacies of our mothers and the futures of our sisters and daughters
Sep 15, 2010
Catherine Clark
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/the-death-of-mothers-is-not-just-a-womens-issue/article1708849/
Suggestions earlier this summer that ice was recovering now ruled out, long-term decline seems to be continuing
Sep 15, 2010
The Canadian Press
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/arctic-sea-ice-levels-third-lowest-on-record/article1708568/
Sep 15, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/15/smog015.html
Sep 15, 2010
Randy Boswell
Postmedia News
http://www.vancouversun.com/business/Canada+become+global+power+thanks+climate+change+Author/3527188/story.html
Sep 15, 2010
NATIONAL RESEARCH COUNCIL CANADA
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/US-Bioproducts-Company-Joins-Saskatoon-Research-Hub-1319827.htm
Pulse research agreement to improve commercial yield, disease and drought resistance for $2 billion crop family
Sep 15, 2010
NATIONAL RESEARCH COUNCIL CANADA-NRC
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/New-Partnership-Improve-Revenue-Farmers-Canadas-Fastest-Growing-Crop-Sector-1319840.htm
Sep 15, 2010
NATIONAL RESEARCH COUNCIL CANADA
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Minister-Goodyear-Opens-New-Surgery-Training-Centre-in-Montreal-1319720.htm
Sep 15, 2010
Industry Canada
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Government-of-Canada-Supports-Leading-Research-at-Universite-Laval-1319471.htm

Less salt, please

Someone has to hold the federal government accountable for making sure its proposed salt reduction actually happens. The provincial health ministers seem inclined to do just that.
Sep 14, 2010
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/editorials/less-salt-please/article1707603/
Federal and provincial officials meeting in St. John’s will agree to cut recommended daily sodium intake by a teaspoon, sources say
Sep 14, 2010
Gloria Galloway
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/health-ministers-to-curb-salty-canadian-diet/article1706622/
Canadian nuclear reactor responsible for a third of the world’s supply went out of service in 2009
Sep 14, 2010
Gloria Galloway
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/provinces-give-ottawa-33-million-bill-for-isotope-shortage/article1706765/

Saving money on drugs

Sep 14, 2010
Toronto Star
http://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorials/article/860458--saving-money-on-drugs
Forget nationalizing existing drug programs. Canadians are still waiting for the catastrophic drug care program promised to them many years ago.
Sep 14, 2010
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/editorials/the-case-of-the-missing-drug-plan/article1707598/
Sep 14, 2010
Environment Canada
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Environment-Canada-Receives-International-Award-Advancing-Clean-Technology-with-Zero-1319102.htm
Wellness Ministers Agree on Ways to Strengthen the Health of Canadians
Sep 14, 2010
Health Canada
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Federal-Provincial-Territorial-Health-Healthy-Living-Wellness-Ministers-Agree-on-Ways-1319058.htm
Quebec investment helping to position Canada as clean energy superpower
Sep 14, 2010
Natural Resources Canada
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Government-of-Canada-Helps-Boost-Biofuel-Industry-1318633.htm
Sep 14, 2010
Natural Resources Canada
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Government-of-Canada-Invests-in-Wind-Energy-in-Quebec-1318810.htm
Sep 14, 2010
CTV.ca News
http://www.ctv.ca/CTVNews/Health/20100913/ms-funding-100914/

Scientist warns of food crisis

Gov'ts must 'wake up' to threat of global famine
Sep 14, 2010
Cassandra Kyle
The StarPhoenix
http://www.thestarphoenix.com/health/Scientist+warns+food+crisis/3520929/story.html
Sep 14, 2010
HENRY AUBIN
The Gazette
http://www.montrealgazette.com/business/money/Quebec+City+leaps+ahead+green+projects/3520497/story.html
New study dismisses out-of-hand the notion that a public drug plan is unaffordable
Sep 13, 2010
André Picard
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/universal-pharmacare-touted-as-way-to-save-billions/article1704881/
With high rates of multiple sclerosis, Canada has an obligation to be aggressive in determining whether a controversial new treatment for multiple sclerosis works
Sep 13, 2010
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/editorials/dr-zambonis-treatment-deserves-study/article1706134/
Province to push ahead despite concerns by health-research community the new treatment is too risky
Sep 13, 2010
Karen Howlett
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/saskatchewan-health-minister-defends-trials-for-ms-therapy/article1704912/
Move at odds with cautious approach by Ottawa
Sep 13, 2010
Gloria Galloway
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/newfoundland-to-fund-study-of-controversial-ms-therapy/article1705346/
Statistics Canada found that the water supply in “Southern Canada” – meaning the set of areas where 98 per cent of the population lives – fell by 8.5 per cent from 1971 to 2005
Sep 13, 2010
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/editorials/canadians-will-have-to-pay-up-as-canada-gets-drier/article1706142/
Statscan says annual loss equal to 1.4 million swimming pools
Sep 13, 2010
The Canadian Press
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/water-resources-declining-in-southern-canada/article1705092/
Sep 13, 2010
Sarah Schmidt
Postmedia News
http://www.montrealgazette.com/health/Food+labels+leaving+shoppers+regulators+confused/3516800/story.html
Sep 13, 2010
Environment Canada
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Government-Canada-Announces-Over-875000-Twenty-new-Projects-Clean-up-Lake-Winnipeg-1317954.htm
Sep 13, 2010
Environment Canada
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Canada-and-Manitoba-Sign-Agreement-to-Collaborate-on-Cleaning-Up-Lake-Winnipeg-1317957.htm
Humane slaughter is required for other animals killed for food
Sep 13, 2010
Peter Singer
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/free-fish-from-their-pain-and-suffering/article1705707/
Sep 12, 2010
Randy Shore
Vancouver Sun
http://communities.canada.com/vancouversun/blogs/greenman/archive/2010/09/12/doctors-sound-alarm-over-antibiotics-in-livestock-feed.aspx
Ontario Liberal, Michael Colle, organizing a bedbug summit on Sept. 29 at the Ontario legislature
Sep 11, 2010
Pat Hewitt
The Canadian Press
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/ontario/bedbugs-feed-nationwide-but-no-one-is-tracking-the-pests/article1704126/
Saturday, September 11, 2010

U.S. study says people are hesitant to believe good news from scientists

Sep 5, 2010
Tom Spears
Postmedia News
http://www.montrealgazette.com/health/study+says+people+hesitant+believe+good+news+from+scientists/3483984/story.html
Posting ‘a great honour and extraordinarily humbling’ for Marc Tessier-Lavigne, a leader in the study of the brain and nervous system
Sep 10, 2010
Anne McIlroy
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/noted-canadian-scientist-to-take-helm-of-rockefeller-university/article1703550/
Is the chief thing protecting our universities merely that they’re Too Big to Fail?
Sep 11, 2010
Clifford Orwin
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/youre-getting-the-universities-you-want---and-deserve/article1703527/
Sep 4, 2010
The Economist
http://www.thestar.com/news/insight/article/856767--will-u-s-universities-go-the-way-of-gm
Sep 6, 2010
The Associated Press
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/06/stem-cell-balzan-prize.html
Sep 8, 2010
Harvey Enchin
The Vancouver Sun
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/business/University+worth+price+admission/3487980/story.html
Sep 8, 2010
Leo Charbonneau
University Affairs
http://www.universityaffairs.ca/margin-notes/canada-slips-slightly-in-world-university-rankings/
Ethics and budgets demand that rigorous research precede clinical trials of Dr. Zamboni’s liberation treatment
Sep 8, 2010
Timothy Caulfield
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/the-cure-for-ms-includes-healthy-skepticism-and-a-dose-of-hope/article1698967/

Weekly Roundup

Sep 9, 2010
Rob Annan
Researcher Forum
http://dontleavecanadabehind.wordpress.com/2010/09/09/weekly-roundup/
Web pioneer Gerri Sinclair guides Ryerson University’s experiment in nurturing innovation and keeping entrepreneurial talent in Canada
Sep 7, 2010
Elizabeth Church
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/technology/growing-ideas-in-a-high-tech-hothouse/article1698992/
Sep 10, 2010
Toronto Star
http://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorials/article/858956--editorial-pelosi-prompts-a-needed-debate-on-oilsands
Nancy Pelosi educates herself about Canada’s oil sands, but makes clear her distaste for fossil fuel
Sep 10, 2010
Shawn McCarthy and Jane Taber
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/us-speaker-calls-for-cut-in-oil-imports/article1701317/
Exaggerated fear is no basis for making smart decisions about something as complicated as global warming
Sep 10, 2010
Bjørn Lomborg
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/sure-worry-about-climate-change-but-not-too-much/article1701553/
Sep 10, 2010
Health Canada
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Canada-Continues-Strengthening-Collaboration-With-China-Protect-Health-Safety-Canadians-1316891.htm
Aboriginals and pro-development groups are on a collision course as they await decision on $800-million B.C. mining project
Sep 10, 2010
Wendy Stueck
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/british-columbia/the-political-storm-watch-on-fish-lake/article1703514/
Letter to PM warns that top-down decision to scrap long-form census is eroding faith in the nation’s statistical agency
Sep 10, 2010
Steven Chase
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/let-top-statistician-resolve-census-issue-former-civil-servants-urge-pm/article1703274/
But it's important to stop building new devices now
Sep 10, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/09/global-warming-climate-change-carbon-emitters.html
Simulation done before Ottawa scrapped long-form census found data was skewed
Sep 9, 2010
Steven Chase
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/government-study-reveals-significant-errors-in-voluntary-census/article1700566/

Suncor charged over water runoff

Company accused of leaking dirty water into river, providing misleading information about incident at stalled oil sands upgrader
Sep 9, 2010
Nathan VanderKlippe
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-investor/suncor-charged-over-water-runoff/article1701581/
Provincial fisheries minister says it’s not clear yet if 500,000 salmon fry died because of nearby spill on Aug. 18
Sep 9, 2010
The Canadian Press
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/atlantic/thousands-of-salmon-found-dead-after-nova-scotia-oil-spill/article1701265/
Sep 9, 2010
The Canadian Press
http://www.thestar.com/news/sciencetech/environment/article/858637--flex-u-s-muscle-on-oilsands-groups-tell-pelosi

Pelosi hears oilsands concerns

Sep 9, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/09/pelosi-ottawa-oilsands.html
Sep 9, 2010
The Associated Press
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/09/asian-carp-front-man-john-goss.html
All sides are holding their breath, waiting for a decision from the federal government on a proposed mine
Sep 9, 2010
John Ibbitson
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/british-columbia/prosperitys-propensity-for-problems/article1701948/
A group of oceanic micro-organisms just might prove a surprising ally in the fight against climate change
Sep 9, 2010
The Economist
http://www.economist.com/node/16990766
The Economist reviews Stephen Hawking's first major book in a decade
Sep 9, 2010
The Economist
http://www.economist.com/node/16990802
Environmental concerns about oil sands pitted against need for jobs and energy security
Sep 8, 2010
Shawn McCarthy
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/industry-news/energy-and-resources/jobs-versus-clean-air-oil-debate-divides-obamas-backers/article1700418/
Sep 8, 2010
Josh Wingrove and Nathan VanderKlippe
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/oil-sands-to-dominate-agenda-on-nancy-pelosis-visit-to-canada/article1699241/
Author François Cardinal says the province’s children suffer from a ‘nature-deficit disorder’
Sep 8, 2010
Jeffrey Simpson
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/in-search-of-a-lean-green-quebec/article1698971/
Sep 8, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/08/edmonton-legal-challenge-caribou.html
Sep 8, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/08/ns-largest-turbine-fundy.html
Sep 8, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/08/pei-knotweed-park-584.html
Sep 8, 2010
Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Earth-Rangers-Showcases-Energy-Efficient-Centre-1315464.htm
Sep 8, 2010
Natural Resources Canada
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Day-Government-Boosting-Forestry-Sector-Through-Environmental-Improvements-Howe-Sound-1315652.htm
Sep 7, 2010
Lorne Trottier
National Post
http://www.nationalpost.com/Relax+Cellphones+WiFi+safe/3487803/story.html

Electric cars: In the zone

An electric car that really works
Sep 7, 2010
The Economist
http://www.economist.com/node/16980314

Take Athabasca science seriously

Dr. David Schindler found elevated levels of mercury, lead and other toxic elements in the Athabasca River, concluding that the “oil sands industry substantially increases loadings” of toxins into the river.
Sep 7, 2010
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/editorials/take-athabasca-science-seriously/article1697936/
Study estimates oil sands tailing ponds kill 2,000 birds a year, while industry reports 65
Sep 7, 2010
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/birds-dying-from-oil-sands-byproduct-30-times-more-than-estimated-study/article1698176/
Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick are all no-go zones for cosmetic spraying. But in Saskatchewan, the whole province is Round-Up ready
Sep 7, 2010
Patricia Dawn Robertson
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/hazards-of-the-mighty-pesticide-wand/article1694282/
Annual death rate related to tailings ponds at least 30 times higher, ecologist says
Sep 7, 2010
The Canadian Press
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/07/oilsands-tailing-ponds-bird-deaths.html
Sep 7, 2010
Emily Chung
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/07/bee-pollination-climate-change.html
'Canada so far easily the worst performing country on climate change in the rich world,' says expert.
Sep 6, 2010
KRISTEN SHANE
The Hill Times
http://www.thehilltimes.ca/page/view/climatestrategy-09-06-2010

An ill wind on Lake Erie

The McGuinty government’s response to wind turbine opposition at Point Pelee reveals a green-energy policy in disarray
Sep 6, 2010
Adam Radwanski
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/adam-radwanski/an-ill-wind-on-lake-erie/article1697544/
Sep 6, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/06/bc-sockeye-coho.html
Sep 4, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/03/bc-williams-whales-underwater-noise.html
Monday, September 6, 2010

Don’t swallow these innovation nostrums

One report after another offers us quick fixes to close the gaps. But there are no short cuts
Aug 27, 2010
David Naylor and Stephen Toope
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/dont-swallow-these-innovation-nostrums/article1688275/
Aug 31, 2010
Rob Annan
Researcher Forum
http://dontleavecanadabehind.wordpress.com/2010/08/31/the-year-ahead-in-canadian-science-policy/
Sep 1, 2010
SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH COUNCIL OF CANADA
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Government-of-Canada-Invests-in-Research-and-Graduate-Students-1312740.htm
Ottawa appointment to ensure better care for patients with male cancers
Aug 31, 2010
Sneh Duggal
The Ottawa Citizen
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/health/Canada+first+research+chair+health/3462156/story.html
Aug 31, 2010
Leo Charbonneau
University Affairs
http://www.universityaffairs.ca/margin-notes/million-dollar-degree-revised-upwards/
World Wildlife Fund of Canada says the move is ill-advised because it comes in advance of a planned regulatory review
Sep 6, 2010
KRISTEN SHANE
The Hill Times
http://www.thehilltimes.ca/page/view/oildrilling-09-06-2010
FDA says DNA-altered fish are safe to eat
Sep 4, 2010
Jessica Leeder
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/engineered-in-canada-salmon-declared-fit-for-the-dinner-plate/article1696212/
A call to reform the IPCC
Sep 2, 2010
The Economist
http://www.economist.com/node/16941153
1st Canadian to head ISS says it's a 'tremendous honour'
Sep 2, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/02/astronaut-mission-csa.html
Stimulating the brain delays, but does not prevent, dementia
Sep 2, 2010
The Economist
http://www.economist.com/node/16941143

B.C.’s fishy salmon science

Like it or not, farmed fish will soon be vital to feed a hungry world
Sep 2, 2010
Margaret Wente
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/bcs-fishy-salmon-science/article1693096/
Sep 2, 2010
CONFERENCE BOARD OF CANADA
http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/September2010/02/c6828.html

Prudent steps on MS surgery

Sep 2, 2010
Toronto Star
http://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorials/article/855605--editorial-prudent-steps-on-ms-surgery
Clinical trials for the Zamboni treatment of MS would be a bold move – but the right one
Sep 2, 2010
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/editorials/funding-ms-trials-is-a-decision-that-goes-beyond-expertise/article1694507/
Sep 1, 2010
Joseph Hall and Joanna Smith
Toronto Star
http://www.healthzone.ca/health/newsfeatures/article/854770--experts-advise-against-clinical-trials-for-ms-treatment
Sep 1, 2010
Health Canada
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Update-Government-of-Canada-Accepts-Recommendations-on-MS-Research-1312848.htm
Aug 31, 2010
Canadian Institutes of Health Research
http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/August2010/31/c6147.html
'If it means that we have to do something more, we will,' premier says
Sep 1, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/01/edmonton-stelmach-oilsands-water-study.html
Sep 1, 2010
The Canadian Press
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/09/01/oilsands-pollution-prentice-environment.html
The oversight is especially hard to understand because Canada wants to be regarded as a leader in global health initiatives for women and children
Sep 1, 2010
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/editorials/wheres-the-family-planning-in-ottawas-maternal-health-plan/article1693077/
Aug 31, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/08/31/oilsands-ramp-kuzmic.html
This year’s fish run appears bountiful, but question about numbers to take in future remains contentious
Aug 31, 2010
Tamsyn Burgmann
The Canadian Press
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/british-columbia/experts-casting-about-for-correct-new-salmon-quota/article1691817/
Mayor of Montreal borough proposes bylaw requiring white roofs
Aug 31, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/08/31/mtl-white-roofs.html
Aug 31, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/08/31/con-wi-fi-warning.html
Aug 31, 2010
Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada
http://www.aucc.ca/publications/media/2010/value_of_a_degree_08_31_e.html
Aug 31, 2010
CBC News
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/08/31/edmonton-garbage-landfill-biofuel-plant.html

Pour more cold water on the IPCC

A new review of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change contains some smart institutional reforms, but this response is too timid if the IPCC is to bulletproof itself.
Aug 31, 2010
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/editorials/pour-more-cold-water-on-the-ipcc/article1690681/
Review says term-limit for chair too long, calls for stronger enforcement of scientific review procedures
Aug 30, 2010
Reuters
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/un-climate-panel-urged-to-reform-stick-to-science/article1689960/
Aug 30, 2010
AFP
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/health/Japan+medical+authorities+slam+absurd+homeopathy/3460661/story.html
Finding refutes long-standing claims that water quality hasn’t been affected by oil sands development
Aug 30, 2010
Josh Wingrove
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/prairies/elevated-levels-of-toxins-found-in-athabasca-river/article1689578/
Montreal researchers establish scientific basis for medical use of drug
Aug 30, 2010
Caroline Alphonso
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/health/marijuana-effective-in-reducing-pain-study-shows/article1689573/
U.S. neighbour has had a successful, sustainable fishery for decades
Aug 30, 2010
Gary Mason
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/british-columbia/gary_mason/bc-should-look-to-alaska-for-tips-on-salmon-management/article1690865/

The right to refuse wellness

Aug 30, 2010
Toronto Star
http://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorials/article/854099--the-right-to-refuse-wellness
Mounties recommend keeping legislation, which will soon be challenged in Parliament
Aug 30, 2010
Jim Bronskill
The Canadian Press
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/long-gun-registry-effective-but-misunderstood-rcmp-report-says/article1690724/
Aug 30, 2010
Industry Canada
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Government-of-Canada-Supports-Research-on-Inuit-Leadership-and-Governance-1311372.htm
Province has long nurtured an image as a green-energy titan
Aug 29, 2010
Les Perreaux
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/quebec/exploration-for-natural-gas-causes-consternation-in-quebec/article1689467/
Are we simply our genes? Is that why we’re unique? Guess again
Aug 28, 2010
Donna Dickenson
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/the-genetic-mystique-of-me-medicine/article1688187/
Aug 28, 2010
Kevin Libin
National Post
http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2010/08/28/kevin-libin-in-the-middle-of-a-15m-inquiry-into-its-collapse-the-fraser-river-salmon-fishery-is-seeing-the-best-returns-in-almost-a-century/
Minister says he’s ‘not uncomfortable’ with recommendation to protect 32% of Lower Athabasca region
Aug 27, 2010
Nathan VanderKlippe
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/industry-news/energy-and-resources/alberta-looks-at-conservation-areas-in-oil-sands-lands/article1688222/
Evidence is mounting in favour of the decriminalization of drugs such as marijuana
Aug 27, 2010
Globe and Mail
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/editorials/the-rising-trend-against-the-war-on-drugs/article1688322/
Aug 27, 2010
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Announcement-of-an-Integrated-Oceans-Management-Plan-for-the-Beaufort-Sea-1310824.htm
Aug 27, 2010
Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Minister-Goodyear-Outlines-Plan-for-Jobs-and-Growth-in-Southern-Ontario-1310722.htm