We launched the Center in 1991 through a three-year competitive grant from the U.S. EPA, and with over 30 Years of Impact, have grown to become a leading sustainability Center at U-M. There are many “firsts” and “legacies” which the Center can claim, such as coining the term “sustainable systems” in 1997.
From its inception, our research, education and outreach efforts have focused on systems analysis modeling and systems-based solutions. Our work has created models, scenarios, pathways, design, technology, and policy recommendations to guide sustainability transitions. We all are committed to solving the most urgent challenges ranging from accelerating energy transitions and climate solutions, to environmental justice issues that burden disadvantaged communities. We seek to align technology, markets, policy and behavior, to transform our world.
We are especially proud of the many achievements of our students, staff and faculty and the impact they’ve had at Michigan and throughout their careers as professors, industry and national lab researchers, and leaders within start-ups, Fortune 500 companies, consulting firms, NGOs, and government agencies.
For those new to the CSS community, I’ll share a few highlights of our work:
- CSS researchers have made real impacts on the future of alternative vehicle technology, renewable energy systems, buildings and infrastructure, water resources management, information technology, food and agricultural systems, and packaging alternatives. Our research labs have conducted 300 research projects generating over 900 publications.
- CSS core faculty lead the Sustainable Systems specialization at SEAS, which has been one of the top choices for students, as is the Engineering Sustainable Systems dual degree program between SEAS and the College of Engineering.
- CSS launched the Peter M. Wege Lecture on Sustainability series in 2001, which features globally distinguished sustainability leaders at its annual premiere event.
- The CSS Sustainability Factsheet Collection has over a half million visits a year and includes 32 factsheets on topics spanning from wind energy to food systems. Recently, we developed a curated collection of K-12 STEM Sustainability Resources for Teachers.
With eight amazing core faculty (professors Michael Craig, Benjamin Goldstein, Drew Gronewold, Shelie Miller, Josh Newell, Tony Reames, and Parth Vaishnav, our dedicated core staff (Christian Hitt, Shoshannah Lenski, Geoffrey Lewis, and Tim Wallington), along with SEAS support staff, and our many talented students, postdocs, and lecturers, there are many opportunities at CSS to make a positive impact!
We look forward to engaging with you to create a more sustainable and just future for all.
Best, Greg Keoleian and Josh Newell, Co-Directors