There is a vast and sometimes overwhelming world of problems when it comes to sustainability and what to do about it. It can occasionally feel like nothing is being done, and that the world is heading towards a bleak future. There is more happening to address things than we might be aware of, however, even here on campus. UND has researchers looking into ways to use resources for environmentally sustainable energy practices while putting specific focus onto the way energy interlaces with food, water and ecological systems. They are studying advanced battery storage options, how to capture and sequester carbon dioxide, better ways to generate electricity, hydrogen-powered technology and renewable energy sources.
UND’s Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) and the College of Engineering & Mines have been working to advance research in oil recovery, carbon capture, and extracting rare-earth minerals which puts UND on the map for the nation’s future in energy. We may not think about it daily, but UND has one of the biggest energy research enterprises in the nation. The current projects they are undertaking are helping North Dakota in terms of environmental responsibility and the industry of energy and the workforce that comes along with that.
A key piece of UND’s research is that they work to collaborate across disciplines to expand opportunities and perspectives. They bring together engineering, economics, sciences, law and other areas for these projects, taking into consideration the multifaceted nature of this kind of research.
The partnership of UND with the EERC expands the research and innovation that can be brought about. The EERC is recognized as one of the leading developers of cleaner energy in the world as well as protecting the environment’s air, water and soil through technological advancement. They have a large team that works together to address global issues within energy and the environment. Their research has been going strong for around 75 years, and they have state-of-the-art facilities. All of this and they are right there on campus, working hard behind the scenes without many of us having even known.
They also have opportunities for students to get involved. The EERC has employment options for multiple disciplines, offering something for most students while also being flexible and hands-on. If anyone is interested in getting involved in sustainability research, it is worth keeping an eye out for openings.
So, while environmental problems can still feel overwhelming, it is important to remember that there are people working hard to combat them, even right here in Grand Forks.
Ed Tortorelli is a Dakota Student General Reporter. He can be reached at [email protected].
