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Mason senior Eva Noroski spent a month assisting alumna and Elephant Trails keeper Ashley Fortner at the National Zoo, researching elephant sleep patterns.

Solving climate change is a grand challenge facing the planet. As more individuals and leaders are recognizing the need to switch to environmentally friendly practices, 91����’s Local Climate Change Planning Initiative (LCCPI) is helping make that a reality for counties across Virginia.

“Our vision is to have Mason be the lead university in helping counties that lack the resources and expertise in [addressing climate change] get this done,” said Paul Bubbosh, a 1988 Mason alumnus and adjunct professor at the Schar School and College of Science.

Kirin Furst believes a systems approach is the best way to solve the world’s safe water problems. Her research lab is primarily focused on removing organic contaminants in drinking water systems and potable reuse systems.

Most people with access to a 3D printer find themselves creating small objects or gadgets. But one student group working at the MIX at 91���� each Friday is driven by a different dream.

“We build, design, test and plan to compete in solar-powered car competitions,” said Michael Riggi, president of Mason’s solar car team, HyperNova Solar. “[We believe] our car, when complete, will be the world’s first and only 3D-printed solar car.”

Mason’s 17 Rooms-U Initiative brought together Mason faculty, staff and students, along with community members, stakeholders and other external partners, in a virtual format to discuss sustainability goals.

The installation of the first Bigbelly zero waste station on 91����’s Fairfax Campus aligns with the university’s waste reduction commitment and draws attention to how single-use consumption and disposal is connected to negative environmental outcomes.

Showcasing a collection of more than 100 native and non-native trees and shrubs, the 91���� Arboretum earned Level II accreditation from ArbNet, the only international accreditation program specific to arboreta.

During the month of April, the students in 91����’s Sustainability in Action course (EVPP 480) were incredibly busy making a difference on and off campus.

Sophia Chapin was the Honors College Multimedia Communications Intern from 2019 to 2021, during which time she improved the quality of Honors College student-, public-, and alumni- facing communications.