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Kiernan, A., Sandberg, J., Spaulding, C.G. (2024)

Mix-method research on the effects of an original experiential, place-based environmental curriculum at Burr and Burton Academy. High school students (ages 15-18) engaged in five classroom lessons and two field trips. Quantitative data was collected through pre- and post-course assessments, including content knowledge tests and attitudes tests (2-MEV). Data showed the treatment group significantly increased content understanding and significantly decreased utilization attitudes. Qualitative findings highlighted transformative learning experiences for each student.

Kaitlin Katirachi, Luke MacKay, Hayden Merz, Micaiah Ocalvey, Isabel Ryen, Jackson Smith, Claire Wolgast (2024)

Although historically expensive and underutilized in low-income communities, green roofs provide urbanized environments with socio-ecological benefits and enhanced accessibility to green space. Our methods combined qualitative and quantitative research components to experimentally identify cost-effective green roof implementation strategies, and study public perceptions and access of green infrastructure. The results of our study showed that green roofs show significant water retention and insulation properties, and illicit positive feedback from Albany residents. 

Maggie Carmody, April Cook, Ben Frank, & Hana Sparks-Woodford (2024)

An understanding of soil health is crucial for sustainable food production. However, comprehensive sampling is cost and time intensive. Our study aims to identify correlations and spatial patterns between soil health indicators to inform the design of reduced-intensity sampling schemes. We found significant correlations between microbially active carbon, soil respiration, and organic matter, as well as significant spatial clustering of buffer pH values across both study sites. We additionally identified similar strengths of clustering in water stable aggregates, buffer pH, and nitrate. These results serve as proof-of-concept for the design and implementation of reduced future sampling campaigns.  

Katherine Almquist, Isabelle Blais, Luca Frederick, Carolyn Scott, & Kara White鈥�(2024)

This study investigates the potential of inactive brewer's yeast waste to mycoremediate lead from contaminated drinking water, addressing environmental and public health concerns. Drawing from previous research on yeast's ability to uptake lead, this study presents a sustainable approach using yeast in the form of a waste product. Results indicate significant reductions in lead concentrations, suggesting the potential application of yeast waste in water filtration systems. 

Maris Lau, Malin Zucca, Milan Lombardo, Amea Lombardo (2024)

Our research aimed to identify the sustainability initiatives in the Hudson Valley through looking at local businesses and luxury companies. We interviewed small business owners and luxury company representatives to understand their current sustainability efforts and the possibilities to work together in the future. We found that there are opportunities for luxury companies to collaborate with local businesses to promote a local supply chain. 

Isabella Figlioli, Kate Manor, Christy Phillips, Brian Shea鈥�(2024)

Our research focused on a 236 acre farmland in Rupert, VT, acquired by Skidmore Visiting Assistant English Professor Lori Soderlind. Soderlind reached out to the senior capstone class of 2024 with the project proposal to create a complete land analysis of her mountainside plot she affectionately calls 鈥楾he Coop.鈥� Our first meeting with Soderlind provided us with her visions for the property and our ultimate mission for the project: to create a 鈥渨orkable idea that would do the most good and be the most fun.鈥� We used qualitative and quantitative research to align Soderlind鈥檚 vision with Vermont鈥檚 wider conservation goals and provide her with meaningful pathways towards land stewardship, future crop cultivation, and community engagement.

Sean Booth, Mya Carter, Madison McCluskey, and Julian Wise (2024)

Elongate hemlock scale (EHS), an invasive insect, negatively impacts the health and survival of Eastern hemlock. The distribution and impact of EHS within the Lake George watershed were studied through scientific, economic, and social research methods. EHS was present at all sites, with an infestation rate of 84%. The projected economic loss due to hemlock death from EHS was $55 billion over the next 100 years. Stakeholders preferred biological controls to protect hemlocks from EHS. 

Alvarez, A., Steensma, J., Haas, S., Healey, C., and Flintstone, S. (2024)

Agriculture is a leading source of nitrogen pollution, causing eutrophication of water bodies and powerful greenhouse gasses emissions. There is preliminary evidence that kelp fixes nitrogen, making it more likely to be retained in agriculture soils. This study investigates known nitrogen loss pathways (leaching, plant uptake, and gaseous loss) and whether amending soil with kelp affects the ways nitrogen is lost from the system. 

Quincy Clew, Peter Guidotti, Marina Hebeisen, Logan Hunnicutt, Braelyn Tebo, Max Volk (2024)

Our action research at Jefferson Terrace in Saratoga Springs, New York revealed strong resident interest (86%) in a potential community garden.  Field research included a survey, focus group, and stakeholder interviews, which found that residents of Jefferson Terrace desired diverse produce and self-governance, envisioning a resident-led system with external support. Critical considerations for implementation include community involvement, conflict resolution, education, security, and water supply. Future research should explore physical implementation and funding requirements.