Research Programs

The Institute on the Environment is reaching across traditional disciplines to develop bold new strategies that address global sustainability. In recent years, the IonE has contributed numerous studies to Science, Nature and many other prestigious journals, helping to build our reputation for groundbreaking research. While our work is rooted in the scientific community, we engage decision makers from business, industry, government and other sectors throughout the process.

We’re building our research and development efforts around three grand challenges:

Energy

We’re creating the science, technology and policy structures needed to bring alternative energy sources to the mainstream through our signature program, the Initiative for Renewable Energy and the Environment. Established in 2003, IREE draws on the broad expertise at the University of Minnesota and across the region to find environmentally sound solutions to today’s renewable energy challenges. Focus areas range from biofuels, solar and wind to conservation, economics and energy efficiency.

Food, Land & Ecosystems

We’re tackling issues related to land use, deforestation, agriculture and food security from local to global scales. Our Global Landscapes Initiative provides unique expertise on monitoring and forecasting changes in Earth’s agriculture, food production and ecological systems, as well as precious land resources. We’re also working to inform policy and economic systems to ensure long-term sustainability of landscapes while meeting the basic needs of people across the planet.

FreshWater

We’re dedicated to understanding freshwater resources in a changing world. Our work considers the links among human activities, the environment and the behavior of whole watersheds. For example, our Global Great Lakes project aims to transform how the world’s freshwater lakes are managed. We’re also working with several partners in the Twin Cities through our River Life program, which brings together a community of experts to explore the past, present and future of the Mississippi River.