Assuring affordable energy and preserving the environment are among the great challenges of the 21st century.

Concerns about global climate change, increased emissions, and the depletion of natural resources have led to a growing awareness of how our energy needs are met and the potentially adverse consequences for the environment.

Washington University in St. Louis’ institutional aspirations in administration and operations are intended to support and strengthen our critical research and educational mission.

Our goal is to become a model of sustainable operations.

Achieving this goal will have a positive environmental impact and help us serve as a model for other large universities and institutions in the St. Louis region and across the country.

As a leader in the scientific community with a mission of teaching, research and service to society, WUSTL has a responsibility to develop new knowledge in research and education related to sustainability, and to use resources wisely in its own operations.

In 2007, the university launched the International Center for Advanced Renewable Energy and Sustainability (I-CARES) to address issues of energy, environment and sustainability through interdisciplinary, collaborative research, both on our campus and with regional, national and international partners. Through I-CARES, the McDonnell Academy Global Energy and Environmental Partnership, the Tyson Research Center and other efforts, university students, faculty, and staff will generate new knowledge to enhance human life and improve our planet.

The Consortium for Clean Coal Utilization is an international collaboration fostered through I-CARES and MAGEEP dedicated to addressing the scientific and technological challenges of ensuring that coal can be used in a clean and sustainable manner. The consortium's mission is to be a resource to industry for the advancement of technologies that foster clean utilization of coal by creating an international partnership between universities, industries, foundations and government organizations.