Institute for Energy and Environment
Securing the future of our planet through innovations that begin in Tennessee
STEWARDING TENNESSEE’S RESOURCES
UT Research uncovers sustainable ways to create value from the state’s natural and industrial resources while protecting the environment and enhancing communities.
FORGING CONNECTIONS TO STRENGTHEN OUR IMPACT
We draw on diverse perspectives and multi-sectoral partnerships to solve real-world challenges.
BRINGING RESEARCH TO REAL LIFE
We work with communities and organizations to create solutions that make life and lives better.
Our Priorities
CIRCULAR BIOECONOMY
Renewable resources like switchgrass, poplar, and other crops power the circular bioeconomy. They help advance our decarbonization goals, sustain our rich ecosystems, replace the myriad of fossil-based products in widespread use today, and reduce the volume of waste being sent to landfills.
CLEAN ENERGY SYSTEMS
Energy is a driving force in modern society, but is too often a source of pollution that threatens life and lives. The development of next-generation clean energy systems will power communities across the state and around the world while mitigating threats associated with greenhouse gas emissions.
Engaged Communities
The solutions to complex problems often lie within the communities they impact. Community voices are critical in the identification of real-world challenges and in the development of equitable solutions that preserve natural resources and sustain modern life.
SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT
Natural ecosystems encompass not only a diverse array of living organisms, but also the intricate tapestry of environments that support them. The stewardship of these ecosystems and the sustainability of life and resources within them necessitate the collaborative dedication and coordinated efforts of all.
SUSTAINABLE INFRASTRUCTURE
The built environment—and the processes used to create it—impact the well-being of people and the natural environment. New approaches must be developed to reduce the environmental burden of infrastructure while also guiding the future design of structures, the planning of communities, and the delivery of essential services, including clean energy and water.
IEE News
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The Conversation: E-bike Incentives are a Costly Way to Cut Carbon Emissions, but They Also Promote Health, Equity and Cleaner Air
Christopher Cherry, professor of civil and environmental engineering, researched the effectiveness of several types of e-bike purchase incentives and the investment required to induce additional e-bike purchases.
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New Research Project to Assist Disadvantaged Communities Confronting Environmental Health Challenges
A team of UT researchers were granted $1.7 million from the Wellcome Trust Foundation to address environmental health and energy challenges in disadvantaged communities and provide a solution.
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The Conversation: Potato Plant Radiation Sensors Could One Day Monitor Radiation in Areas Surrounding Power Plants
Neal Stewart, professor of plant sciences, and Robert Sears, graduate research assistant in plant sciences, examined alternatives to mechanical radiation sensors and built a plant-based sensor for gamma radiation.