Notes from the Dean
A welcome and perspective from the Nelson Institute’s leadership.
Notes from the Dean
From water to earth, we’ve reached air on our journey through the elements with The Commons.
March 13, 2026
Deep Dive
An in-depth look at big questions, breakthrough work, or urgent environmental issues.
The Air We Share
Human-made pollution is down, wildfire smoke is up, and your lungs are caught in between.
March 13, 2026
What We Don’t Know (Yet)
You have questions about the environmental impacts of data centers. Our experts do, too.
December 15, 2025
Celebrating 60 Years of Watershed Stewardship
For 60 years, the WRM practicum has trained generations of water leaders — and transformed communities, ecosystems, and policy along the way.
September 15, 2025
Reflection
Guest essays and op-eds that reflect on experience, place, and purpose in a changing world.
The Real Costs of Air Quality Deregulation in Wisconsin
Policy changes at the federal level will have a direct impact on your health.
March 13, 2026
Minerals, Modern Life, and the Future of Society
To safeguard our democracy, we need to dig deep — and reach for the stars.
December 15, 2025
The New Gerrymander: Flood Maps
Flood risk lines are designed to keep us safe. What happens when they can be bought?
September 15, 2025
In Your Environment
Practical how-tos, at-home actions, and personal sustainability steps.
How to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality
Seven quick tips to help you breathe easy at home.
March 13, 2026
How to Be Sust(AI)nable
Four tips for using artificial intelligence responsibly and sustainably.
December 15, 2025
Alumni in Focus
Nelson Institute graduates making bold moves and meaningful impact around the globe.
Behind the Binoculars
Olivia Sanderfoot came to birding looking for an “easy A,” but now shares accolades and office space with the world’s top birders.
March 13, 2026
The Transdisciplinarian
How Alberto Vargas turned interdisciplinary interests into a career-defining strength.
December 15, 2025
At the Corner of Academia and Government
Maria Daniela Castillo makes connections everywhere she goes: from cars and people to research and reality.
December 15, 2025
Every Pixel Tells a Story
Amintas Brandão Jr. works daily to protect and preserve his community — even though he’s thousands of miles away.
December 15, 2025
Field Notes
Student dispatches from courses, fieldwork, internships, and research.
Field Notes: The Environmental Sustainability Scholars Program (ESSP)
Learn how a group of freshmen are setting the stage for sustainability, community, and connection.
December 15, 2025
Field Notes: Beaver Dam Lake
Join a team of WRM students as they dive into hands-on learning and community collaboration.
September 15, 2025
Unearthed
Nelson Institute experts share five things you didn’t know about an environmental topic.
Five Things You Didn’t Know About Allergies
Including one plant that deserves a collective apology.
March 13, 2026
Unearthed: Five Things You Didn’t Know About Dirt
It’s all around you — in your yard, on your shoes — but did you know these soil secrets?
December 15, 2025
Unearthed: Five Things You Didn’t Know about Springs
Our most critical resource is one you can’t see. It’s beneath your feet, way beneath, supporting life in uncountable ways.
September 15, 2025
Abstracts
The latest research highlights from Nelson Institute faculty and students.
Power at a Price
New analysis finds two proposed power plants could increase air pollution, health harms, and long-term damages.
March 13, 2026
Designing Clean Air for a Cooler Climate
New SAGE research shows decarbonization can meet ozone standards while cutting carbon emissions.
March 13, 2026
A CHEERful Update
One of UW–Madison’s newest centers is helping improve air quality and health equity in Milwaukee.
March 13, 2026
Sowing Spicy Seeds
New research finds that pepper-coated acorns can outsmart seed-hungry rodents, helping support forest restoration efforts.
December 15, 2025
The Greener Commute
New research from the Nelson Institute explores how pandemic-driven work changes shape a more sustainable future.
December 15, 2025
