Energy, Environment & Sustainability

Cornell is a global leader in sustainability and climate change research, teaching and engagement. Our campuses are living laboratories for developing, testing and implementing solutions that address these most challenging issues.


Cornell Atkinson awards support graduate student biodiversity and sustainability research

Cornell Atkinson is supporting 36 graduate students whose work protects biodiversity, improves health, reduces climate risk and more. 

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Students gain decision-making insight from alumna Cheryl Einhorn

At their spring banquet, students in the Robert S. Harrison College Scholar Program hear from a speaker who helps foster creative and critical thinking skills.

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Summer farm internships offer learning and growth

Cornell AES manages farms and greenhouses that support research but are also unique teaching tools for over 40 courses. This is the fifth story in a series about on-farm teaching; summer internships offer undergraduates immersive learning experiences.

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Solar solutions: Agrivoltaics offer array of options for farmland use

The process of combining agricultural production and solar panels on the same farmland, known as agrivoltaics, has seen a great leap in Cornell research activity. 

NYS invasive species illuminated by art and science exhibit

Students, scientists and artists have joined forces to present a Cornell University Library exhibit designed to spread awareness about non-native plants and insects threatening ecosystems in New York state.

Solar solutions: Bio-inspired approach creates bespoke photovoltaics

An interdisciplinary team of Cornell researchers is developing HelioSkin, an aesthetically appealing solar-collection fabric that is inspired by the biological mechanisms that enable plants to bend toward the sun.

Solar solutions: ‘Crazy’ perovskite offers sustainable alternative to silicon

Over the last decade, perovskite photovoltaics have emerged as the most exciting alternative to silicon, with Cornell researchers studying how the material can be grown to be more durable for optimal performance, and be recycled. 

Aquaculture in the Amazon: lessons for food security and sustainability

Aquaculture expansion in the Amazon could improve nutrition and environmental outcomes, but it also poses risks, according to research in Nature Sustainability.

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Keeping campus warm: steam to hot water conversion

Hidden beneath Cornell’s campus, a vast energy system powers the university. A major upgrade is now slashing emissions and advancing Cornell’s net-zero goal.

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