Preventing a Mad Max Future

Overview

Boston Public Library
700 Boylston Street
Newsfeed Café
Boston, MA
United States

Tuesday, 20 March 2018 - 7:00pm

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Details

Water pollution and subsequent water shortages are popular motifs in many dystopian science fiction stories and have now become a reality in many places around the world. As these issues become more prevalent, the sustainability of the ways we purify our water also present a daunting challenge. Using electricity from clean power sources is a promising approach to purify polluted water; however, in addition to a power source, this technology also requires use of electrodes—conductors that allow electrons to assist in removing toxins. Although many materials have been found to be efficient as electrodes, scientists are still seeking affordable and environmentally-friendly alternatives.

 

In this talk, Dr. Ljiljana Rajic will discuss the ways in which water pollution is currently impacting our world and innovative approaches to using cost-effective materials to clean heavily polluted waters.

 

Seating is first-come, first-serve in WGBH's Boston Public Library Studio. Overflow seating will be located in the Newsfeed Café and is not guaranteed.

 

Speaker bio:

Dr. Lily Rajic is a senior research scientist at Northeastern University and a chief science officer for Pioneer Valley Coral & Natural Science Institute (Hadley, MA). Dr. Rajic received her B.Sc. (2002-2007) and Ph.D. (2007-2010) in Chemistry from Faculty of Sciences at University of Novi Sad (Serbia). Trained as a chemist but with a broad set of interests for environmental protection and injustice, Dr. Rajic focuses on creating sustainable and affordable water treatment systems along with great commitment to mentorship and education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) for learners of all ages. Find more information on her website.

 

Directions to WGBH's Boston Public Library Studio, 700 Boylston Street

Public Transit: Green line to Copley, head west on Boylston St. toward Exeter St. Destination will be on the left. WGBH's Boston Public Library Studio is located inside the Newsfeed Café in the Central Library's newly renovated Johnson building.

Parking: Valet parking is available across the street at The Lenox Hotel (61 Exeter St.) accessible by Exeter St. Metered street parking is limited, but available in the area. Parking garages are also located further down Exeter St.

The Newsfeed Café is operated and managed by The Catered Affair and offers a selection of Chef-Inspired Grab & Go fare featuring gourmet salads, pastries, and family friendly snacks. You can find Newsfeed Café's menu here.