Evan DiValentino’s vast knowledge in fields including energy production and carbon emissions, as well as his experience in laboratory work, has made him a key player at Niagara Research.

Evan’s work at Niagara College’s applied research and innovation department includes acting as the faculty lead on two projects with environmental implications.

One project takes a look at how different sources of energy production in Ontario contribute to carbon and greenhouse gas emissions at different times.

Depending on demand and consumption levels, energy is pumped into the grid that is created from different means, such as hydro-electric, coal and nuclear power plants and wind turbines.

The task for Evan and the student he is leading is to determine where the energy is coming from and at what time, and how that form of energy production is contributing to emissions. The first steps are to utilize energy management and energy emissions software and communicate with energy distribution companies.

The second project includes working with an eco-friendly disinfectant meant for yoga mats and other applications to make sure it can be classified as both a disinfectant and as a biodegradable product.

The process includes determining claims made by similar products and what the Health Canada standards are for disinfectants.

Evan has taught at Niagara College since September 2010. He graduated from Brock University with a degree in biology, before taking the College’s Environmental Management and Assessment program.