Forging a Sustainable World

Long before going green was a mainstream goal, Carnegie Mellon researchers were working to find sustainable solutions. Unique programs that look at environmental issues from many perspectives are helping to pave the way for a brighter, cleaner future. And students on campus are showing their commitment to the cause through a range of extracurricular activities in addition to environment-related coursework.

Redefining Mechanical Engieering

Mechanical engineering may bring to mind gears and engines but some of its leading researchers are inspired by nature — and they're using their expertise to help solve some of the issues facing the world today, including those related to the environment. Case in point: Nadine Aubry, head of Carnegie Mellon's Department of Mechanical Engineering. Read more.

Clean Energy

With a $1.85 million grant from the New York-based Doris Duke Charitable Foundation (DDCF), Carnegie Mellon's Granger Morgan will lead a team of investigators researching carbon dioxide issues. The team will work to develop and promote a regulatory structure for the safe and economical capture, transport and deep geological sequestration of CO2 in the United States. Read more.

It's in the Water

At Carnegie Mellon, a number of research centers and institutes are working on ways to make our water free from harmful toxins such as pharmaceuticals. According to the Associated Press, the problem of pharmaceuticals in the water supply is a growing concern for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. David Dzombak, faculty director of Carnegie Mellon's Steinbrenner Institute, says this is an issue worthy of the attention of researchers and consumers alike. Read more.