Engineering is built on inspiration and processes. Sustainability motivates much of the ongoing research at WSU, and good design transforms aspirations into applications. Sustainable systems research combines existing and emerging technologies to do more with less and reduce secondary impacts. The state of Washington harnesses the power of its river system to produce clean energy. Building on the success of present clean energy technologies will carry us towards realizing the vision of a truly sustainable future. For example, WSU researchers are currently developing technologies for the production, liquefaction, storage, and delivery of hydrogen as part of emerging clean hydrogen technology.

Whether designing new additive manufacturing systems, rural delivery drones, or advanced microgrid control software, all our research is driven by the goal of a safer, more connected, more sustainable future.

Topics in Design and Sustainability

• Design of medical assistive devices
• Small, modular hydrogen liquefier design
• Rocket and space stage vehicle design
• Aircraft and vehicle related engineering design
• Global engineering and design of high-performance work environments
• Distributed generation systems
• Energy storage dynamics and integration with renewable sources

Faculty in Design and Sustainability