UCLA will establish an Engineering Research Center on Hazardous Substance Control. The goal of the Engineering Research Center for Hazardous Substances Control is to develop and apply fundamental engineering concepts and an interdisciplinary systems approach to hazardous substances control. This systems approach considers the minimization of hazardous substances generation from their origin in a manufacturing process through their treatment, eventual disposal, possible release from containment, transport and transformation in the environment, and the eventual exposure of humans, animals, or plants to these toxins. Research in the UCLA Center will include studies of emerging and future technologies for the control of hazardous substances as well as strategies for managing and remediating sites already contaminated with hazardous substances. The initial overall systems level program thrusts will be in-situ treatment of contaminated ground water and soil, and incineration systems and secured disposal residuals. A multi-faceted educational program in hazardous wastes impacting undergraduates to postdoctorates will be a feature of the Center. A program in continuing education will include a Certificate Program in Toxic and Hazardous materials control and Management.
