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.


Nine projects receive undergrad engaged research funding

Nine faculty-led teams conducting research with undergraduate students have received Undergraduate Engaged Research Programs grants, administered by Engaged Cornell.

Cornell works with Mexican tribe on forest management

A pilot project in Mexico is bringing together Cornell researchers and Maya leaders to manage community forests for biodiversity conservation now and livelihoods, including bee-keeping and ecotourism, into the future.

Finicky deer avoid some invasive plants, promoting spread

The dietary preferences of deer may be promoting the spread of such invasive species as garlic mustard, Japanese barberry and Japanese stiltgrass, according to a new study.

Max Zhang helps communities grow greener

From studying smog along Beijing's streets to improving how interstate highways clear exhaust to electrifying New York City parking spaces, engineer Max Zhang adds verdancy to vibrant communities.

Kids face higher lead exposure playing in urban gardens

Cornell and New York state scientists estimate that some gardeners who toil in urban gardens and children at play in them could be exposed to lead levels that exceed FDA thresholds, as reported in Environmental Geochemistry and Health.

'Climate-smart soils' may help balance the carbon budget

Here's the scientific dirt: Soil can help reduce global warming. While farm soil grows the world's food and fiber, scientists are examining ways to use it to sequester carbon and to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.

Cornell, partners seek to revolutionize textile industry

The federally backed Advanced Functional Fabrics of America Institute promises to accelerate breakthroughs in fiber science and manufacturing with partner institutions including Cornell.

Sheryl WuDunn '81 to deliver Iscol Lecture April 20

Journalist and business executive Sheryl WuDunn '81 will deliver the 2016 Jill and Ken Iscol Distinguished Environmental Lecture, "Navigating Environmental and Economic Conflicts in China and the World," April 20.

What drives cities to pursue sustainability policies?

Examining survey results of local governments, half of U.S. cities and towns had specific environmental goals but only one-third had concrete sustainability plans, in a new report, published March 2016.