MnDRIVE Environment

The MnDRIVE Environment Program supports research and partnerships that develop sustainable solutions to environmental grand challenges, thereby enhancing quality of life and economic vitality in Minnesota and beyond.

Research Opportunities

Explore our funding priorities, past projects and the 2023 MnDRIVE Environment Seed Grant Program.

Science Communication

With funding from MnDRIVE Environment, students in the Science Communication Lab explore the science and policy issues surrounding power generation from food and agricultural waste in an interactive story map. Learn more

Speaking Science

MnDRIVE Environment is proud to sponsor Speaking Science, an annual symposium for researchers at all career stages looking to improve their communication and engagement skills. Learn more

MnDRIVE Research Stories

We value long-lasting solutions that are environmentally, economically, and socially sustainable. Learn more about our impact and research success stories.

Beyond bottles: Addressing the Challenge of Forgotten Plastics

From brushing our teeth to putting our head on the pillow at night, plastics are part of everything we do. But they also have serious downsides and their durability means they pollute land, water, and—in minute quantities—even the insides of our bodies.

Is PFAS a Problem in Municipal Compost?

MnDRIVE brings industry and regulators together to weigh costs, benefits, solutions.

Minnesota’s Fantastic Fungi

The Soudan Mine, not far from the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, was once a rich source of iron. When it ceased operation in 1962, however, residue from toxic metals lingered in wastewater surrounding the mine. Left untreated, these toxins threatened the ecosystems and natural resources vital to the Northland economy, culture, and identity.