The University’s work on sustainable energy got a boost in the form of a new institute director, a new name, and an enhanced mandate.
Benjamin Sovacool, a social scientist, professor of Earth and environment, and internationally renowned climate change expert, took over BU’s Institute for Sustainable Energy, a hub for sustainable energy research and policy solutions, and has transitioned it into the Institute for Global Sustainability. One of the new institute’s priorities is making sure vulnerable communities around the world aren’t left behind or adversely impacted as existing fossil fuel infrastructures are replaced with renewables.
“Fifteen years ago, it was rare to see the word ‘justice’ alongside things like ‘electricity’ or ‘electrons,’” says Sovacool.