About Us

Pollution and public health, the loss of biodiversity, the food vs. fuel dilemma—all in the context of a changing climate—encompass just a few of the complexities facing today’s world. In response, the Institute on the Environment has mobilized scholars from across the University of Minnesota.

Top researchers from the natural and social sciences, design, engineering, law, health, policy and other disciplines have joined forces with each other and with community partners to identify and solve problems of both local and global significance. Surrounded by Minnesota’s vast forests, plains, rivers and lakes, these transdisciplinary teams can directly address environmental impacts on America’s heartland and beyond.

This century calls for a nationwide effort on the order of a “race to the moon” for solutions. The Institute on the Environment is leading this effort by discovering solutions and delivering results to the state, the country and the world.

Areas of Focus

Research:

The Institute’s research is organized around a set of overarching themes, themes that will change over time as solutions to existing problems are found and new challenges arise. The current themes are: Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation, Renewable Energy and the Environment, Landscapes and Watersheds, and Human and Ecosystem Health. More>>

Initiatives:

The Institute is working with University colleges and centers on several initiatives related to the environment. More>>

Community:

The Institute is committed to integrating, enhancing and showcasing the excellent environmental research and education activities of our University’s environmental community. More>>

Public Engagement:

The Institute is committed to a vigorous and ongoing program of stakeholder engagement that will ensure that the Institute’s research is relevant to stakeholders, that research results are translated into real-world solutions, and that these solutions reach those who can put them to effective use. More>>

 

 See our Blueprint for more details on our mission, goals and operations.