Through a new collaboration called Research Junction, researchers at the university and City employees will work together on five projects with the goal of coming together to build a better Saskatoon.

Those projects include measuring the pharmaceuticals in Saskatoon’s wastewater and diverting food from the landfill to save money and the planet.

USask President, Peter Stoicheff says he finds on of the projects quite fascinating which is increasing the demand for downtown living.

“But this one is really trying to figure out, you know, how downtown Saskatoon can become really an attractive location for people to live.”

Both the City and the U of S have put in $50 thousand dollars each along with a $50 thousand dollar donation from a private donor to fund the projects.

Stoicheff says the university has a number of students and faculty that want to make a difference in their local community and around the world. That’s why he’s excited for those at the U of S who want to help and can do so through the new collaboration.

Researchers will have access to City resources such as data and expertise.

Mayor Charlie Clark says the projects can create real benefits and build a healthy, sustainable future.