From Lab to Living Room, UNL Research Makes a Difference
A message from University of Nebraska-Lincoln Chancellor Harvey Perlman
I am pleased to present the latest iteration of Strategic Discussions for Nebraska, a project of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Journalism and Mass Communications. This edition, Opportunities for Nebraska, Volume Two: Energy, Climate and Sustainability, explores important topics that engage the very best scientists and researchers at the University. This edition also represents two milestones. For the first time, the contents of this magazine were researched and written entirely by UNL students. And this is the first time that the University of Nebraska Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources has been a key partner and collaborator.
UNL's most important strategic priorities are undergraduate education and research and economic development. These are rooted in our primary missions of teaching, research and engagement and outreach. Strategic Discussions for Nebraska is a project that encompasses all these missions. Opportunities for Nebraska, Volume Two: Energy, Climate and Sustainability allowed students to dig deeply into diverse issues such water conservation, climate change, innovations in plant and animal science, drought policy, and biofuels. UNL scientists and researchers are among the leaders in these areas. This publication bridges the gap between the laboratory and living room- giving Nebraskans the facts and materials necessary to make critical decisions about issues that will affect the future. We hope these publications spark discussion, comment and further inquiry.
We are indebted to the Robert and Ardis James Family Foundation whose generous contributions launched Strategic Discussions for Nebraska. Congratulations to Project Director Mary Garbacz of the College of Journalism and Mass Communications and to the students who researched, wrote and created this publication. I thank the many faculty members across the University, particularly those in IANR, who served as sources for the project. Thanks also to the members of the Strategic Discussions for Nebraska Advisory Board, who come from the University and the wider Nebraska business and educational communities. This group's aid in identifying and targeting topics of interest has proven invaluable.
I know you will find this publication to be a useful tool in formulating opinions and policy that advance Nebraska's progress.
Articles
A Message From:
Soil: Techniques and Production Methods and How They Conserve Resources
Soil Productivity Vital for Economical Crop Production
Leading Through Sustainable Management of Natural Resources
Center for Plant Science Innovation: Developing Better Foods and Fuels
Grapes and Wine: Adding Value to Nebraska's Economy
UNL Plant Trait Research Saves Water, Grows More Food
Feeding the World from Nebraska's Research Technology
Research Means Better Ag Productivity, Better Marketing Opportunities
Harnessing Nebraska's Wind Energy
Nebraska's Solar Potential Bright
Green Slime Slides into Biofuels Arena: How Algal Biofuels May Be the Next Alternative
Biofuels: Progress and Importance
Camelina as a Biofuel, Biolubricant
Ethanol: Powering the Vehicles of the Future
Active Efficiency: A Closer Look at the Use of Ethanol Byproducts
Biofuels: The Economics of Environmental Impact
Engineering Efficient Electric Vehicles: Powering the Future with Batteries
Creating the Next Generation of Sustainable Nebraskans
Climate Research Provides Economic Opportunities
Helping Nebraskans Navigate Climate Change
Sustainability: a Philosophy, a Goal
Rural Sustainability is Key to Nebraska's Future
Defining Drought and Its Impact
Increasing Ag Water Productivity
Water Monitoring Key to Competition
Improving Water Starts with Conservation Techniques
Nebraska's Water Resources, Management Offer Global Learning Opportunity
Water Center Focuses on Water Quality, Sustainability
Water for Food Institute a Global Leader in Water, Food Research
IANR Progress in Science, Technology Moves U.S. Forward
Addressing the Need and Planning the Future of Science Research
Ag Science = Exciting Opportunities
Planning For the Future: A Look at the Evolving Scientific Workforce