The SABCS was established in 2003 as a non-profit foundation to conduct independent science-based reviews and to develop tools of benefit to professionals working in contaminated sites management in British Columbia. Additionally, the SABCS has hosted an annual conference and workshop for the past 14 years, with a focus on emerging issues. Recently, the SABCS conducted a re-visioning process to play a more direct role in supporting scientific reviews and standards development relevant to practitioners in British Columbia. As a first outcome, the Science and Standards Technical Advisory Committee (SSTAC) was established to provide advice on modernizing the Contaminated Sites Regulation (CSR) sediment standards.

Building on the foundational framework established during Phase 1, we are pleased to announce the launch of the next phase of this work: the 2026–2027 Sediment Standards Project (Phase 2), running from July 2026 through June 2027. 

This collaborative initiative between SABCS, the Ministry of Environment and Parks, and participating technical experts will focus on developing a multi-pathway Matrix Sediment Standards Framework for British Columbia. The expanded scope for this technical phase includes:

• Bioaccumulation and bioavailability research
• Development and quality review of a provincial BC Aquatic Database
• Creation of an input parameter catalog

The roadmap for this work aligns directly with the 2025 SABCS white paper:

Proposed Framework for Modernizing British Columbia’s Sediment Standards

Call for Participation: Join a Technical Working Group (TWG)

This project relies heavily on the world-class expertise of our volunteer-driven Technical Working Groups. We are actively seeking practitioners to assist with:

• Research and framework development

• Database development and quality review

• Review of the Input Parameter Catalog

• Workshop planning and facilitation

If you are interested in participating as a volunteer, please contact us at info@sabcs.ca.

For more information visit the dedicated website for the Sediment Standards Project: SSTAC & TWG Dashboard