This award is to the University of Florida to support the activity described below for 36 months. The proposal was submitted in response to the Partnerships for Innovation Program Solicitation (NSF 0179).
Partners The partners for this award include the University of Florida (Lead Institution), Florida A&M University, the University of Miami, Alachua County Environmental Protection Department, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, NASA Kennedy Space Center, Bionetice, Camp Dressen & McKee, Inc., Dynamac Corporation, Jones Edmunds & Associates, Koppers Industries, and Post, Buckley, Shuh, and Jernigan (PBS&J).
Proposed Activities The proposed partnership will establish the Florida Interdisciplinary Center for Environmentally Sound Solutions. The center will create a forum for effective communication and collaboration among all synergistic university researchers while serving as a focal point for establishing an interface with the private sector and government. The center will identify and respond to important environmental problems and develop innovative solutions.
Proposed Innovation The partnership will provide science and engineering solutions for environmental problems, improve understanding of complex relationships involving public policy, economic issues, risk assessments, and public education.
Potential Economic Impact The potential impact will depend upon the perceived economic value the public places on environmental issues and the cost the private sector places on abatement and cleanup.
Potential Societal Impact The societal goal of economic growth compatible with preservation of the environment using renewable resources can be achieved by a judicious marriage of technology with public policy. The center will contribute to this. The potential societal impact of environmental protection is limitless.
