Designing systems to support resilient communities

At the Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment (iSEE), we conduct research that enables communities to plan, build, and maintain sustainable, resilient, and adaptable infrastructure systems. From transportation and construction materials to stormwater management and urban design, our work addresses the environmental footprint of the built environment while supporting long-term community and economic well-being. We collaborate across engineering, planning, and environmental disciplines to apply science and innovation to real-world infrastructure challenges.

Focus Areas

• Green stormwater infrastructure and flood mitigation
• Low-carbon construction materials and design
• Urban heat mitigation and land use
• Transportation planning and emissions reduction
• Decision-support tools for planners and policymakers

Featured Researchers and Initiatives

Yanfeng Ouyang
Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering; Director, Sustainable Transportation Initiative
Dr. Ouyang leads iSEE’s Sustainable Transportation Initiative, which explores decarbonized transportation systems to serve both urban and rural communities. His team is developing engineering guidelines and piloting EV charging infrastructure to support low-carbon mobility.
Learn more about the Sustainable Transportation Initiative >>>

Shaowen Wang
Professor of Geography and Geographic Information Science; Director, I-GUIDE
As Director of I-GUIDE, Professor Wang leads the development of a national geospatial data platform that informs infrastructure planning and risk mitigation strategies. His team works across disciplines to address flooding, land use, and sustainability challenges.
Learn more about I-GUIDE >>>

Jeremy Guest
Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering; Director, Levenick Center
Professor Guest directs the Levenick Center for a Climate-Smart Circular Bioeconomy. His work supports the design of agricultural and manufacturing production systems that reduce waste and pollution through circular resource use and climate-smart innovation.
Learn more about the Levenick Center >>>

Impact Highlights

• The Sustainable Transportation Initiative launched a campus EV charging pilot as part of a broader vision for clean, integrated mobility systems.
• The Levenick Center, funded by a $10 million gift, is advancing circular production approaches that reduce pollution and extend material lifecycles.
• Midwest CASC provides data and climate projections that help planners and community leaders strengthen infrastructure across the region.

Explore More

• Explore our Centers & Initiatives >>>
• Meet our Researchers >>>
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