RBC donates $1.5-million to water projects

A citizen-run program that will monitor and track biodiversity and ecosystem health in the Hamilton region is one of three water-focused projects that will be created as a result of a $1.5-million gift from the RBC Foundation for the RBC Water and Health Initiative.

The announcement was made this morning at McMaster University by Peter George, McMaster's president, and Laura Gainey, RBC Royal Bank's regional president for Ontario South West.

"Thanks to RBC, we will be able to involve, educate and motivate vigilant eco-citizens, the stewards of our natural environment," says George. "What's more, we'll be collaborating with fine local organizations - the Bay Area Restoration Council and the Royal Botanical Gardens. RBC's gift will have a great impact not just across campus but on the broader community as it benefits from McMaster's world-class, multi-disciplinary research into water."

"Water is our most precious natural resource, and we know that universities, industry, government, business and individuals can all play a part in promoting sustainable water use," says RBC's Gainey. "We are thrilled to support the outstanding research McMaster will undertake through the RBC Water and Health Initiative that will benefit not only the local Hamilton area, but communities around the world."