UAlbany Leading a $3.4M Environmental Sustainability Project

Department of Energy-funded initiative aims to convert wet organic waste into high value products

ALBANY, N.Y. (May 28, 2020) – Every year, millions of tons of sewage sludge and food waste are discarded in landfills where they cause serious environmental problems. Now, the University at Albany is leading a consortium of universities to dramatically alter the way this waste is handled. The goal is to develop economically viable methods to convert wet organic waste into high value products.

The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded the project $2.7 million. The consortium, which includes the University of Michigan, Argonne National Laboratory and Princeton University, is adding an additional $709,550 to bring the total budget to more than $3.4 million.

“Research and development of clean technologies is not only fundamental to reducing pollution and protecting our air, water and soil, it promotes innovation, supports good-paying jobs and boosts our economy,” Congressman Paul Tonko said. “Our local colleges and universities are a catalyst for cutting-edge technology innovation and discovery. Today’s announcement, led by the University at Albany, would literally turn waste into wealth by reimaging how waste is used and disposed. The impact on public health, sustainability and the economic well-being of our environment is obvious. I applaud UAlbany for their vital work and commitment to developing pioneering solutions to waste management.”