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.


Study casts doubt on carbon-removal method

A study led by Cornell researchers suggests the real-world potential of “enhanced weathering” — spreading crushed basalt on farmland as a way to removed CO2 — may be far smaller than widely cited estimates.

Research Matters returns, following ideas from the lab to real life 

The second season of Research Matters, a Cornell video podcast, drops today, with a way-too-relevant episode on why we don't always do the things we know we should.

‘Wall-to-wall’ map of NYC trees could help cool cities worldwide

Researchers used satellite images to identify 1.8 million trees in New York City, a new approach that could be broadly implemented to increase cooling and improve air quality in cities.

Life in the deep Atlantic depends on the Labrador Sea

The mixing waters in the Labrador Sea, sandwiched between Greenland and Newfoundland, provides enough oxygen to sustain life throughout the deep North Atlantic Ocean.

World off-track on nearly every food system goal, latest assessment reveals

The latest study from the Food Systems Countdown Initiative (FSCI) reveals the stark reality of where global food systems transformation stands: For most indicators on health, environment, livelihoods, governance and resilience, a vast majority of countries will not meet the internationally agreed 2030 goals.

Around Cornell

Many paths, one destination: Cornell welcomes new students

The 3,681 first-year students and 603 transfers who begin moving to campus Aug. 17, hail from 49 states plus Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and American Samoa, and 62 countries. 

NYS teachers take on microplastics with snail-inspired robot

Researchers and extension staff translated complex research into a hands-on curriculum – including the construction and deployment of floating robots – for New York State teachers and their students. 

AI plus chemistry can expand battery electrolyte design

Artificial intelligence is aiding the search for better battery materials while using a creative approach to chemistry to expand the design space for electrolytes, unlocking new possibilities for safer, higher-performing energy storage.

Tree-focused tech aims to bring more shade to vulnerable New Yorkers

Announced Aug. 5 at Cornell Tech, a research partnership will help neighborhoods in Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx identify where new trees are needed most to improve public health.