Through research, we understand earth systems and project into the future. The Global Futures Laboratory leverages the tools and expertise of transdisciplinary research institutes, centers and facilities across Arizona State University to generate new ideas and solve problems.

Current impact

• ASU partners with Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings to initiate one-of-a-kind Global KAITEKI Center
• ASU faculty release report on environmental impact of proteins
• “Pervasive polymers of the Deep Blue Sea”
• Drylands study finds surprising reason that drought conditions weaken root systems

Arizona State University is at the forefront of exploring new ways of transmitting knowledge to diverse audiences according to their needs and priorities.The Global Futures Laboratory works synergistically with leading schools across the university to provide education and training opportunities at all stages of learning within and outside of academia.

Current impact

• School of Sustainability associate dean Darnall inducted into National Academy of Public Administration
• “Fighting the threats of the future now”
• ASU student team takes top circular economy innovation prize
• ASU students gamify sustainability

We are running out of time on many fronts. We need to address problems with urgency, sometimes within only a few years or decades. At Arizona State University, we work in networks and in close exchange with the people affected by problems to combine knowledge and develop solutions on multiple scales.

Current impact programs

• China’s ban on imported used plastics is an opportunity for innovation
• ASU selected as technical partner for USCCF’s Beyond 34 project
• “Big power from a small container”
• Carbon-capture technology moves to commercialization

The challenges we face are too big for any individual organization to solve alone. The Global Futures Laboratory partners with leading institutions around the world to achieve a critical mass of intellectual resources to address these challenges.

Current impact

• “This is not a single-generation issue.” – The Earth League call on scientists to join youth movement in addressing climate crisis
• The Sustainability Consortium celebrates 10 years of impact
• RISN Incubator alum Renewlogy awarded City of Phoenix contract
• Global Futures Laboratory joins science consortium The Earth League

In order to drive real change, we must engage with people who are affected by a problem to understand their needs, learn from their knowledge and share ideas. At Arizona State University, we convene communities and organizations to integrate knowledge and create realistic, sustainable solutions.

Current impact

• Falling Walls Lab calls for innovators across Arizona
• Global Futures Laboratory welcomes Agents of Change symposium: Oct 24-25
• Sustainability Solutions Festival set for 2020 with return of GreenBiz
• Meet today’s circular economy and waste leaders at Waste Not