Effluent Ecosystems

Effluent Ecosystems is a public exhibition and awareness campaign about combined sewer overflows (CSOs) and green rainwater infrastructure in Metro Vancouver. The project is funded by Ocean Wise’s Youth Ocean Action Grant and led by landscape designer Sam Kohlmann.

In older parts of the region, rainwater and sewage share the same pipes. During heavy rain, these pipes can overflow and send untreated sewage into our rivers, beaches and ocean. Most people don’t know this happens.

Our mission is to change that. We want to help people understand where their water goes, why it matters for public health and coastal ecosystems, and what they can do about it. We focus on real solutions, from sewer separation to rain gardens and permeable streets that soak up water before it reaches the pipes. Effluent Ecosystems is supported by a volunteer team of landscape designers and students, with guidance from landscape architects and UBC professors.