Two sustainability proposals approved for funding
November 18, 2014
The Review of Infrastructure, Sustainability and Energy Board has approved funding
for a research tool that could help reduce emissions from UAF's new coal plant and
for a project to demonstrate in-classroom research methods to future teachers.
The board and the Office of Sustainability accept funding proposals three times annually.
Preference is given to projects that invest in energy efficiency and renewable energy.
The goal is to endorse promising student and faculty ideas for a more sustainable
future. The board evaluates proposals and forwards recommendations to the chancellor
for approval. Money comes from the student sustainability fee.
This fall, the board supported a $750 student proposal to build a model fluidized
bed combustor. The students, working with the Alaska Center for Energy and Power,
plan to use the combustor to study the best mix of biomass and coal in coal-fired
plants. The project could help find ways to reduce emissions of heavy metals and metal
oxides from the new heat and power plant.
The board also approved a faculty member's proposal for $2,000 to buy hydroponics
and vermicomposting systems. The systems would be used in an education course to demonstrate
how to incorporate real-world research and science concepts in classrooms.
The next proposals are due Feb. 18. For information on the proposal process or to
view funded projects in more detail, go to www.uaf.edu/sustainability/rise/currentproposals/.