The first COVID-19 lockdowns improved air quality. Where are we a year later?
Despite the return of traffic, record-high summer heat waves and apocalyptic wildfires, the early months of spring 2020 offered a glimpse of what is possible.
sustainability
Results
Study explains how consumers can be encouraged to conserve energy during peak periods
Promotional messages about saving money on electricity bills or earning other financial rewards motivated homeowners to conserve.
Local demand is helping California surpass renewable energy targets
A UCLA study shows that 30% of residents now can choose cleaner power from community choice aggregators.
A ‘ghastly future’ unless extraordinary action is taken soon on sustainability
UCLA’s Daniel Blumstein and a global team of scientists point to environmental, population and political challenges.
Could the ocean hold the key to reducing carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?
UCLA researchers have outlined a strategy that would use seawater to trap and store billions of metric tons of the greenhouse gas each year.
California needs policies to protect communities moving to renewable energy
Without careful planning, the shift to green power could cost more and strain the state’s grid.
New electric shuttles serve patients and planet
UCLA is on track to run a completely carbon-neutral fleet by 2025.
Practicing sustainability during a pandemic
UCLA’s Bonny Bentzin offers encouragement for those who, thanks to the pandemic, see the word “reusable” and think “infected.”
Tiny endangered shrimp may get big hand from environmental DNA testing
The method saves time and money and doesn't require sacrificing endangered animals. All that’s needed is a few ounces of water from their habitat.
Researchers receive Department of Energy grant to transform carbon dioxide into construction materials
CO2Concrete, developed by UCLA engineers, is made in part from emissions captured from power plants and other sources.
Clean energy revolution may leave disadvantaged communities behind
Affluent neighborhoods use more energy and reap greater benefits from government incentive programs, a new UCLA study shows.
Risk of massive wildfires continues to grow in California
If carbon emissions aren’t curbed in the next few years, researchers say, severe autumn fires will build in frequency and intensity.
Will our clean air last after COVID-19? UCLA study says it’s possible
Achieving net-zero emissions in California by 2050 can prevent thousands of deaths annually, researchers say.
UCLA students take first place in national EPA stormwater treatment design competition
The team proposed a redesign of certain elements of a Los Angeles elementary school to improve its environmental sustainability.
Deforestation surged following end of armed conflict in Colombia
Many forested areas used by insurgents for camouflage and cover were later decimated by illegal industries.
UCLA developing policy to phase out single-use plastics
The move could drive regional change and would make UCLA one of the largest universities in the U.S. to take action.
Eric Hoek tapped to lead UCLA’s Sustainable LA Grand Challenge
In this role, Hoek will provide leadership and grow partnerships with faculty and stakeholders to improve ecosystem health in Los Angeles.
To boost recycling, reward consumers with discounts, deals and social connections
UCLA’s Magali Delmas notes that most U.S. consumers are opposed to pollution, but research shows that they seldom view themselves as significant contributors.
To accelerate environmental benefits of EVs, prioritize miles over ownership
Infrastructure improvements, along with policy-based incentives for rideshare services and drivers, could promote broader adoption of electric vehicles.
Technique could make better membranes for next-generation filtration
The approach could offer a way to manufacture more effective filters that use high-performance plastics and carbon materials.
L.A. County taps UCLA to help create first-ever sustainability plan
The initiative addresses inequalities faced by the disadvantaged communities that have suffered disproportionately from the health effects of pollution.
Converting waste, ‘a leftover resource,’ to biofuels reduces emissions
A UCLA study reveals how the United States can maximize the benefits of waste-derived fuels.
10 reasons to join the Cool Campus Challenge
Climate change won’t solve itself, but all Bruins can make changes and help UCLA beat the other University of California campuses.
UCLA and LADWP to fund water and energy research benefiting customers
The partnership will enable the city to manage water supplies more sustainably, become more energy efficient and increase use of clean energy.