A $100,000 contribution from Husky Energy has been provided to the University of Northern British Columbia to acquire state-of-the-art equipment for assessing the effects of environmental contaminants on health. At a celebration event hosted by UNBC today, the University recognized Husky Energy and its President & Chief Executive Officer, Mr. John C.S. Lau, for its generous support and contribution.

Husky’s donation is being matched by funds obtained by UNBC researchers to purchase a mass spectrometer. The equipment is essential for quantifying the presence of minerals and heavy metals in a variety of samples including blood, hair, soil, snow, water and food. The mass spectrometer can be used for diagnosing a variety of illnesses and for detecting very small quantities of metals and minerals such as mercury, arsenic and lead. It will be the first to be located in northern B.C. and will be essential for research on environmental health, soil contamination and remediation, and biochemistry.

“Husky’s community investment philosophy is to enrich the quality of life by investing in initiatives that bring long-term benefits to the communities where we have operations,” said Mr. Lau. “The purchase of the mass spectrometer will bring research benefits to the University and clinical benefits to area residents.”  

This contribution also marks the completion of the Company's Clean Fuels Project at its Prince George Refinery and the 40th anniversary of operations since the refinery opened in 1967.

"We would not have been able to secure the matching funds to acquire this kind of equipment without Husky's generosity and leadership. Thank you to Mr. Lau and his team," said UNBC President, Dr. Don Cozzetto.

Husky Energy Inc. is headquartered in Calgary and is one of Canada's largest energy and energy-related companies. The Company completed its Clean Fuels Project at its Prince George Refinery in 2006, to upgrade the facility to produce low sulphur gasoline and diesel fuel, and increase throughput capacity to 12,000 barrels per day. The Refinery produces all grades of unleaded gasoline, seasonal diesel fuels, a propane and butane mix, and heavy fuel oil for markets in central and northern BC.

Contact:
Rob van Adrichem, Director of Media and Public Relations, UNBC – 250.960.5622 

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UNBC President Don Cozzetto (left) with Husky President and CEO, John C.S. Lau.