Environmental Science and Engineering for the 21st Century. The Role of theNational Science Foundation

摘要

The junction between present and future societies lies in the global commons: theshared physical, biological, and intellectual resources of the planet. The environment-specifically intact, functioning ecological systems-is essential to opportunities for individual development, the health and well-being of citizens and communities, and the generation of new wealth. Environmental science and technology are therefore a vital component of productive knowledge and thus a high priority for the Nation. As connections between humans and the goods and services provided by the ecosystems of Earth become better understood, the scale and rate of modifications to these ecosystems are increasing. Environmental challenges are often exceedingly complex, requiring strengthened disciplinary inquiry as well as broadly interdisciplinary approaches that draw upon, integrate, and invigorate virtually all fields of science and engineering. Within the broad portfolio of science and engineering for the new century, the environment is emerging as a vigorous, essential, and central focus. The National Science Foundation (NSF) is one of the largest supporters of environmental research in the Federal Government and the major supporter of environmental research conducted by the academic community. Consistent with NSF's mission, the agency primarily supports awards based on external, peer-reviewed national competition, and these investments drive advances in fundamental understanding of environmental systems. Therefore, because of its mission and record of accomplishment, NSF is primed to provide dynamic leadership in advancing the new insights and fundamental knowledge essential to addressing a range of emerging environmental issues.