Sustainability

Concerns regarding population growth, global warming, resource scarcity, globalization, and environmental degradation have led to an increasing awareness that current engineering design and policy strategies can be engaged to better advance the goal of sustainability. That is, mutually advancing the goals of environmental protection, economic development, and social prosperity. This requires technological innovation of materials and energy for more effective and efficient use, for inherent safety, and for the entire life cycle. Maximum benefit is realized when these factors are integrated during the design phase for new technologies and environmental policies.

Current research targets the development of green solvents, biobased materials, safer nanotechnology, and systems optimization for reduced environmental impact and enhanced economic competitiveness. Research output reflects the collaborative and interdisciplinary nature of joint efforts between SEAS, the Center for Green Chemistry and Green Engineering, the Center for Industrial Ecology, the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies, and others.