University of Wisconsin Madison College of Engineering
Environmental Sustainability

In a world of limited resources and increasing population, the engineer’s role in designing sustainable systems is critical. At the UW-Madison College of Engineering sustainability is integrated into both research and curriculum. Our Consortium for Applied Water Quality Research seeks effective and economical solutions to water supply problems and pollution control and conducts innovative practical research that cannot be carried out effectively by individual organizations. Our research into ground, surface and wastewater systems produces advances in technology and public policy that are adopted around the world while research on air pollutants is at the forefront of national and international efforts to assess air quality and its impact on everyday life. There is an increasing understanding in both public and private sectors that sustainable construction practices not only benefit the environment but improve profitability.

From flyash, to foundry waste, our experts in reclamation and reuse find solutions that turn landfill waste into products that enhance the construction of roads and the strength of concrete. Our Construction and Engineering Management Program trains engineers to understand and incorporate economic, environmental, political, social, safety and global considerations into design, investigation, and construction of natural and built systems. Our certificate program in sustainability includes strategies for addressing carbon reduction and climate change, minimizing resource utilization, and developing restorative processes for land, water and air. The College of Engineering has myriad research programs focused on providing reliable, clean and efficient energy. Our investigations range from nuclear and wind energy systems, to biomass and efficiency in electricity transmission.

 

Sustainability news