This Department, established in 1990, is dedicated to understanding the complex inter-relationships among the major earth systems and between the human need for energy and the consequent impact on the earth's environment. This requires knowledge of all the interdependent ecosystems that together constitute the "environment," as well as a commitment to improving the manner in which energy is utilized by humans.
The Department's research activities have several areas of focus. One is in the field of physical oceanography and hydrology. A second is in the use of stable isotopes for paleoclimatic reconstructions and biosphere-atmosphere interactions, and a third is in the field of atmospheric chemistry. Research in solar energy is conducted in a dedicated facility, the Solar Tower, on campus. The Department is distinguished by the fact that many collaborations exist among faculty members from quite different backgrounds. Such collaborations are viewed as essential in the fields of environmental and energy sciences. The interdisciplinary nature of the Department is well reflected in the academic training of the research students. Their backgrounds vary enormously from physics to biology and geology. We encourage the participation of students who are interested in not only investigating in depth a specific subject, but who are also interested in a broader, more integrative approach to science.