A joint research initiative between the University of Strathclyde (Glasgow) and Laurentian University (Sudbury, Ontario) aims to treat contaminated mine water in Canada using a cost-effective, environmentally friendly method. The project will develop a system that integrates microalgae and calcium silicate to remove and recover valuable metals—cobalt, nickel, and copper—for reuse. Microalgae absorb dissolved metals over time, while calcium silicate binds heavy elements through chemical sequestration. This biotechnical approach offers a scalable solution for mine water remediation, particularly in areas affected by legacy and ongoing mining activities. The UK and Canadian teams will collaborate closely, with field testing led by Strathclyde’s Civil and Environmental Engineering department and on-site refinement by Laurentian researchers. The project is backed by UKRI’s Natural Environment Research Council, through the £1 million International Science Partnerships Fund. Canadian partners have secured approximately C$250,000 from NSERC, as part of a broader C$4 million environmental research investment.