Winter’s Hidden Cost: Effects of De-icing Agents on Dissolved Oxygen Levels in Freshwater
CWSF · 2026 Environment & Climate Change Bronze Medal
Overview
Every year, we use tonnes of road salt to make roads and driveways safer for us to drive on, but have we ever considered how this affects our environment? In my research, I aimed to solve this question by looking into how road salts and other de-icing agents affect dissolved oxygen (DO) levels in freshwater bodies. By testing four de-icing agents (road salts, beetroot juice, abrasive gravel and biochar) in water columns replicating Lake Winnipeg, I discovered that road salts and beetroot juice heavily reduced dissolved oxygen levels, which can "choke" our freshwater ecosystems. Biochar and abrasive gravel, however, had smaller impacts, which opens doors for discovering more environmentally friendly choices. Through this research, we can become more aware of the hidden effects de-icing agents may have, and can start to turn towards more sustainable and eco-friendly choices for clearing our driveways and streets!
Awards (2)
- Bronze Medal
- Selected for CWSF 2026
Competition history
- CWSF 2026
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