In a groundbreaking move to combat the climate crisis, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded $1.7 million in research funding to establish the Center for Emissions Reduction, Resiliency, and Climate Equity in Transportation at the University of California, Davis.
This innovative research hub, created in partnership with DOT, will drive critical research and technological advancements to support the nation’s clean energy goals, accelerate transportation sector decarbonization, enhance infrastructure resilience, and address environmental injustices perpetuated by the transportation system.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized the urgency of addressing the climate crisis and the importance of investing in research and innovation to develop effective solutions.
The new Center will play a vital role in supporting the DOT Climate Change Center and various related Department climate and research programs.
By fostering collaboration among top research institutions, including California State University Long Beach, Texas Southern University, University of California, Riverside, University of Southern California, and the University of Vermont, the Center will spearhead cutting-edge research and inform data-driven transportation decisions nationwide.
Dr. Robert C. Hampshire, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology and Chief Science Officer, highlighted the significance of this investment in driving innovation and supporting research-backed transportation decisions across the country.
By tackling the complex challenges posed by climate change, the Center for Emissions Reduction, Resiliency, and Climate Equity in Transportation will contribute meaningfully to a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable transportation future.