The Sustainability Institute facilitates the convergence of basic and applied interdisciplinary research and community engagement, so that research questions are inspired by critical societal challenges and support the application of new knowledge to real-world innovations. We elevate the sustainability research that many faculty are pursuing and grow external resources, including support for graduate students and postdoctoral researchers.
Circular Economy
Converting wastes into valuable resources throughout the supply chain to shift toward a closed-loop economy in which resources are conserved and environmental impacts are minimized.
Healthy Air, Land and Water
Pursuing integrated research and modeling to ensure the current and future sustainability of air, water and land systems and the ecosystems and communities that depend on these systems.
Smart and Resilient Communities
Improving the well-being and resilience of communities through digital technologies and adaptation strategies for changing environmental, economic and social conditions.
Sustainable Energy
Developing the technologies, infrastructure, institutions and behaviors needed to transition energy systems toward improved energy efficiency, a greater mix of renewable resources and an affordable, resilient and reliable power grid
Sustainable Resources
Conserving resources and protecting human and ecosystem health through innovations in technologies, processes and institutional structures that reduce resource consumption, improve resource efficiency and minimize environmental impacts.