Why SEAS?
Meet the future
The world needs bold leaders ready to tackle urgent environmental challenges. At SEAS, we say “bring it on.” We’re the architects of a new tomorrow: transforming research into action to create a healthier planet for all.
Statement from Dean Overpeck
We woke up today to a trifecta of environmental challenges. Wildfire smoke threatening the air we breathe. A Cyclospora outbreak reminding us that safe food can't be taken for granted. And the approval of critical Line 5 permits, putting the future of the Great Lakes, and the drinking water millions depend on, at risk. These aren't separate stories. Environmental policy matters. Public health matters. Coalition building matters. We are all on this planet and in this moment together. Walk out the front door. Our planet is in crisis and it's on all of us to decide what comes next.
Academic Rigor—Real-World Impact
Research News
The latest in research from SEAS faculty and students
Impact Stories
Master's projects produce real-world throughout the region—and the globe.
Community Highlights
Our SEAS community is recognized through notable awards and honors across all disciplines.
In the Media
Our experts in the field weigh in on issues across a wide spectrum of media outlets.
Themes
Sustainability Themes cut across all specializations—and give students, faculty, and partners a chance to dig deeper into a particular area of impact and interest. Themes are also used as rallying points for cross-campus research, teaching and civic engagement collaborations.
Bold Leaders: Inventing Tomorrow
Making Ann Arbor’s Bryant Neighborhood a Model for Sustainable Energy
SEAS Assistant Professor Parth Vaishnav and SEAS PhD student Mallika Kothari are studying how residents in Ann Arbor’s Bryant neighborhood cope with power outages of greater than 12 hours. Their work is a small slice of a much larger project to make Bryant the nation’s first carbon-neutral neighborhood.
Read more
Greener by Design: How SEAS Landscape Architects are Making Cities More Sustainable
The work of landscape architects in cities is vital to mitigating environmental challenges like the urban heat island effect, stormwater management and ecological restoration. As cities strive to become climate resilient, SEAS landscape architecture faculty and students are focused on finding sustainable solutions that benefit the public.
Read more
Planning for Climate Migration in the Great Lakes Region
People across the U.S. who live in hurricane-, wildfire- or drought-prone areas may be considering relocating to other places that are perceived as being safer from the effects of climate change. Derek Van Berkel is helping communities plan for climate migration now, so they can be more adaptable and sustainable in the future.
Read more