Grand Challenge 2: Sustainable Resources

Supplying food, energy, and water for future generations

The challenge

By the year 2050, the world population will hit a staggering 9 billion people—2 billion higher than the current count. Between now and then, farmers will need to grow more food than has been produced in the previous 10,000-year history of agriculture. People will need fresh water for farming, as well as drinking and other uses. They will also need more energy.

In order to provide sufficient high-quality food and fresh water for future generations, our society must create renewable energy systems that safeguard the environment. Most current energy production systems release greenhouse gases that intensify climatic changes. The shifting climate threatens the ability to grow food and access water.

Reliable production, storage, and transmission of clean energy will be fundamental to sustaining the way of life that you—and everyone around you—has come to expect.

The College of Education’s Role