Carbon Management Initiative

Colorado State University

A winner of the FY23-FY27 Colorado State University Thematic Units of Excellence (TUNE) Program 

The Carbon Management Thematic Unit of Excellence (TUNE) aims to leverage Colorado State University's (CSU) academic and research excellence to reduce and offset global carbon emissions through pioneering research, comprehensive education, and cutting-edge innovation. By collaborating closely with industry, government, and communities, the TUNE strives to accelerate developing and deploying sustainable climate solutions that balance economic growth with environmental preservation. 

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We're transforming CSU into a hub for climate innovation in carbon management, a vision we call “Carbon Solutions University.” 

- Dr. Rich Conant

What is the TUNE?

What is the TUNE?

The Thematic Units of Excellence (TUNE) program at CSU supports high-impact research and scholarship by investing in areas of proven excellence. TUNE promotes collaboration across campus and with external partners to drive innovation and address global challenges. Selected programs receive up to $800,000 over four years and must demonstrate significant impact and engagement. 

What is our proposal?

What is our proposal?

The CSU TUNE proposal for Carbon Management is focused on addressing one of the most critical global challenges—managing carbon emissions and actively reducing atmospheric CO2. The proposal involves a multidisciplinary collaboration across several CSU colleges, led by faculty within CSU, and supported by a Board of Directors composed of experts in the field. 

How are we addressing carbon management? Through innovative, scalable, cost-effective strategies and solutions. 

  • Carbon Management Education

    • Activity 1: Develop a Carbon Curriculum Action/Results program to expand CSU’s leadership in carbon management training. 

    • Activity 2: Create new academic programs, certificates, and courses that focus on carbon management and its real-world applications. 

    CSU’s Ecosystem Science and Sustainability Department currently offers a Carbon Management Degree, as well as a Graduate Carbon Certificate and numerous Carbon Sequencing Courses.

  • Carbon Terminology Database

    • Activity 1: Build a Carbon Education-related Terminology Database to standardize key concepts and terms across the field of carbon management. 

    • Activity 2: Integrate this terminology resource into academic and professional training programs to ensure consistent understanding and usage. 

    Coming Soon!

    • Activity 1: Launch a Skunkworks Initiative focused on developing innovative technologies for carbon dioxide removal. 

    • Activity 2: Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to prototype and test new methods of carbon management and storage. 

  • Policy Analysis 

    • Activity 1: Establish a Policy Analysis Working Group comprised of students across CSU to assess and influence carbon management policies at local, national, and international levels. 

    Coming Soon!

  • Carbon Solutions Network 

    • Activity 1: Build a Carbon Solutions Network to connect CSU researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers in advancing carbon management solutions. 

    • Activity 2: Host collaborative workshops and symposia to promote knowledge exchange and innovative thinking on carbon management practices.

    In the Works!

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