A correlational study of Escherichia Coli concentrations and coastal water temperatures in Metro Vancouver’s routine beach water quality reports from 2016-2022.

Nikjou-Helabad, Ghazal (author)
British Columbia Institute of Technology (Degree granting institution)

Research paper/project

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© Ghazal Nikjou-Helabad, 2023. All rights reserved. No part of this work covered by the copyright heron may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means – graphics, electronic, or mechanical including photocopying, taping, or information storage and retrieval systems – without written permission of the author.
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British Columbia Institute of Technology

2023

16 pages

The impact of climate change and the resulting more frequent heatwaves severely affect public health, as seen in the record-breaking 2021 Western North America heat wave. The elevated coastal water temperatures caused by rising ambient temperatures are expected to lead to increased recreational water use, which could contribute to higher levels of Recreational Water Illnesses (RWIs) due to the growth of specific pathogens. This study investigates any potential correlation between Escherichia Coli levels and coastal water temperatures in Routine Beach Water Quality reports from Metro Vancouver from 2016-2022. Furthermore, it aims to create a standardized Bathing Water Quality Index (BWQI) to reduce public exposure to pathogens and prepare for future extreme weather events.

Escherichia Coli
Climate Change
Coastal Water Temperatures
Recreational Water Illness
Heatwaves
Public Health

Escherichia coli - growth & development
Water - metabolism
Temperature

electronic