Wicked problems are complex and dynamic – they must be addressed at the intersections of our fields; through collaboration and transdisciplinary thought. The Center for the Environment brings researchers together from across the university to apply their expertise and creativity to meeting these challenges. 

Societal Challenges

Earth Systems and Climate ChangeEnvironmentalJusticeEnvironmentalSolutionsBiodiversityPlanetaryHealth
Climate Change
Food Insecurity
Air Pollution
Biodiversity Loss
Access to Clean Water
Infectious Diseases
EnvironmentalJusticeEnvironmentalSolutionsBiodiversityPlanetaryHealth Earth Systems and Climate Change
Air Pollution
Infectious Diseases
Access to Clean Water
Biodiversity Loss
Food Insecurity
Climate Change

Climate Change

What are the implications of a warmer, wetter planet? How do we limit greenhouse gas emissions and rising temperatures? How do we live with climate change? 

Food Insecurity

Global hunger is a crisis – nearly one in ten people go to bed hungry each night. How do we feed the world in the face of climate change and inequity? 

Air Pollution

The air we breathe, wherever we go is vital for our lives. How does it affect our health? How can we improve air quality?  

Biodiversity Loss

With over 12,000 species threatened with extinction, the world is rapidly changing. How does biodiversity conservation make our planet healthier and protect us against climate change, hunger, and disease?  

Access to Clean Water

All life on earth requires water. How do we keep it clean for ourselves and for all living beings on the planet?

Infectious Diseases

Plants, animals, and human health are all intertwined. How can understanding the interconnections of these systems reduce the risk of new and evolving infectious diseases?