The Problem with a Word Like "Resilience"
Resilience has become a catch-all word that hides more than it explains. In this piece, I unpack how broad terms like resilience can flatten very different experiences, stop important conversations, and obscure the real tools people need.
Clearing the Water: The Reality of Selenium Treatment and Regulation
Confusion around selenium treatment often comes from mixing up discharge criteria at the pipe with receiving environment criteria after a mixing zone. This has led to the false claim that no treatment can meet regulatory standards. In reality, selenium treatment technologies exist and have for years. The real debate is about how regulations are applied and whether they should evolve.
We Need More Science - and Less Spin - on Selenium and Coal Mining
A new preprint claims coal mining is pushing Alberta lakes "beyond recovery" due to selenium, but its own data shows no signs of selenium toxicity in fish, lacks water chemistry context, and misuses scientific terms for dramatic effect. If these legacy mines were reopened under today’s regulations, selenium discharges would decrease. Fear-based spin doesn't solve legacy issues - science does.
Throwback: An Open Letter on Science, Fear, and Selenium (Originally written in 2021).
Science isn’t about beliefs. It’s about evidence.
Innovation isn’t just a technical outcome - it’s a cultural decision
We often talk about innovation like it’s a purely technical challenge. But I’ve seen great ideas stall not because they didn’t work, but because the environment around them wasn’t open to change.
Unlocking Innovation in Our Resources to Super Charge Innovation
Canada’s innovators - especially in the resource sector - are key to building a more secure and prosperous future.
It’s time to build
Canada just had an election, and no matter where the political winds blow, we founders keep showing up.
My visit to the Inuit Village of Kangiqsualujjuaq
I recently had the opportunity to visit the Inuit Village of Kangiqsualujjuaq to engage in discussions about the proposed Torngat Metals Strange Lake Rare Earth Elements mine.
Thoughts for Earth Day
As someone who has spent most of my career working at the intersection of science, innovation, and environmental responsibility, I believe Earth Day shouldn't just be about celebration. It’s about accountability.
Dr. Monique Simair featured in Canadian Light Source video
Dr. Monique Simair was interviewed by the Canadian Light Source about the role this important organization has played in the work of her company, Integrated Sustainability.
Dr. Monique Simair Moderates SREDA Panel
Dr. Monique Simair moderated the "Leading Global Industry from Saskatoon" panel at the Saskatoon Regional Economic Development Authority (SREDA) 2025 State of the Economy Summit.
Turning Curiosity into Action
Award-winning USask graduate Dr. Monique Simair (BSc’04, PhD’09) has leveraged her passion for science, innovation, and problem-solving into two successful environmental consultancy businesses
By SHANNON BOKLASCHUK, Mar 31, 2025 for Green and White Magazine