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.


Environmental engineer Bill Jewell dies at 83

William Jewell, a researcher who pioneered innovative approaches to waste treatment, renewable energy production and groundwater remediation, died Nov. 5, 2024, in Ithaca.

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AI hardware reimagined for lower energy use

A new innovation from Cornell researchers lowers the energy use needed to power artificial intelligence – a step toward shrinking the carbon footprints of data centers and AI infrastructure.

Largest-ever Cornell delegation to attend Climate Week NYC

Cornell will send its largest-ever delegation to Climate Week NYC 2025, to present on issues including the renewable energy transition, protecting public health from heat waves and addressing the impact of climate change on housing.

Cornell Tech welcomes 11 new startups through Runway and Spinout programs

The new ventures tackle challenges that range from agricultural robotics and energy systems to fertility care, global trade compliance, and AI safety.

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Faculty awarded entrepreneurship funding

The Louis H. Zalaznick Teaching Assistantships help faculty develop or expand courses, pursue research opportunities or add teaching assistants.

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Chemist Song Lin named 2025 Blavatnik National Award finalist

Recognized for advancing electrochemical techniques that enable efficient, sustainable synthesis of complex organic molecules, accelerating drug development, and materials innovation, Lin is a finalist in Chemical Sciences.

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Entrepreneurial students flock to kickoff event

The event featured more than 30 resource tables and pitches from four students hoping to be part of eLab.

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Ph.D. student’s nonprofit seeks to protect Amazonian biodiversity and culture

Ethan Duvall, an inaugural Semlitz Family Sustainability Fellow, has launched a nonprofit aimed at protecting biodiversity and culture in the Amazon Rainforest. Among their on-the-ground initiatives, they are working alongside local and Indigenous communities to strengthen green economic initiatives.

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CALS administrator wins Award for Staff Integrity and Inclusion

The Employee Assembly presented the award to Adrienne Mason, the administrative director for two departments in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, on Aug.29.