FOCUS AREAS
The USC Center for Sustainability Solutions brings together interdisciplinary groups of researchers to work with local governments, regulatory agencies, industry and NGOs to develop innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing environmental and social challenges. Working in the context of the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the National Academy of Engineering’s Grand Challenges, the center’s researchers work on:
1. SUSTAINABLE CO2 REDUCTION AND CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION
The US emits twice as much CO2 per capita than any other industrialized country. The Center seeks sustainable solutions to reduce carbon emissions at the household, local, regional and national level as well as strategies for adapting to climate change. Read more.
2. SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION
Transportation is now the largest end-use of energy with a large contribution to pollutions and CO2 emissions. The center seeks to identify and advance clean and sustainable transportation solutions. Read more.
3. SUSTAINABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS
Providing access to clean, sustainable, affordable energy will open opportunities for to obtain a better quality of life through jobs, improved health, and greater protection from global warming. Read more.
4. SUSTAINABLE WATER AND AGRICULTURAL SYSTEMS
About 80% of all fresh water is used for agriculture with many regions experiencing increasing periods of droughts. The center examines solutions to clean water supply and sustainable agricultural in the US and worldwide. Read more.
5. SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND THEIR BUILT ENVIRONMENT
More than half the world’s population inhabits cities and that number grows by 73 million people every year. The center seeks solutions to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. Read more.