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.


Grants to support research at nexus of AI, climate science

New grant funding will support eight research projects seeking to reduce AI’s energy use and integrate AI in environmental research. 

A tale of two ponds sheds light on high emissions

The slight differences in depth and light in Mud Pond and Texas Hollow Pond led to surprising differences in carbon dioxide and methane emissions.

Mobile battery system to provide campus with clean power

A sustainable alternative to diesel generators will now power Cornell's signature outdoor events and provide backup in emergencies.

University leaders, alumni meet at annual forum in Shanghai

Cornell leaders traveled across China and Asia in early November to connect with alumni, deepen partnerships, celebrate academic milestones, and engage in discussions on a wide range of global challenges. The multistop trip included the sixth annual Cornell-China Forum in Shanghai.

Around Cornell

NY fish and wildlife unit leads conservation

The New York Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit has been helping state and federal agencies manage fish and wildlife and protect ecosystems for over 60 years.

Around Cornell

Cornell ash trees aim to beat back borer insects

Cornell Botanic Gardens is collaborating with conservation partners to propagate trees resistant to emerald ash borers.   

Breakthrough could lead to plants that use water more efficiently

Cornell researchers have discovered a previously unknown way plants regulate water that is so fundamental it may change plant biology textbooks – and open the door to breeding more drought-tolerant crops.

Central America’s ‘Five Great Forests’ support North America’s migratory birds

A new study using data from the Lab of Ornithology finds that five forests in Mesoamerica are indispensable lifelines for dozens of migratory bird species.

Around Cornell

Brekland wins $1 million Grow-NY prize at Canandaigua summit

The Brooklyn-based startup building a biodegradable foam coating for crop protection, was awarded the $1 million grand prize in the 2025 Grow-NY Food and Agriculture business competition.