Projects
The Freshwater Lab turns knowledge into action. We support and sponsor projects to increase awareness, expand community, and improve life in the Great Lakes region. Our work includes partnerships with communities, non-profit organizations, and government.
Learning and Leadership
The Freshwater Lab elevates young leaders through a collaborative, future-facing framework that amplifies their talents.
From Waste to Water
In a world of dwindling rivers and collapsing aquifers, we need to move away from single-use water.
Digital Storytelling
Making the latest research on water accessible and actionable for
the general public.
Art and Events
The health of water and human communities are interdependent. In the name of supporting mutual health, the Freshwater Lab creates artwork and produces events to help people engage with their water.
Oil Pipelines and the Great Lakes
Pipelines that run through lakes and rivers and refineries that sit on the shores impact water in the near and long term. The Freshwater Lab makes omnipresent oil visible so that its risks become plain and policies for protecting water can respond.
Water Diplomacy
Because water constitutes a universal human need, cross-community governance and conservation of water can provide the basis for enduring relationships whose material outcomes can provide the basis for the long-term resolution of conflict.
From the Rust Belt to the Water Belt
The Great Lakes region has the potential to become the world’s Water Belt where genius infrastructure balances problems of flooding and drought as it supports economic growth and widespread stability. We propose three basic principles to guide the transformation: keep water public, keep water clean, and keep water here.
Water Pricing and Affordability
With water systems across the United States aging, the question of how to maintain and upgrade infrastructure while ensuring that everyone can afford water is central. Through research and policy collaboration, the Freshwater Lab addresses water pricing and affordability.
Climate Migration
Our choices about how to treat water impact the quality of life throughout the Great Lakes region and determine our ability to absorb newcomers.
Addressing Urban Flooding
By implementing policy recommendations, we can mitigate the impacts of flooding, enhance community resilience, and protect the well-being of Chicago residents, particularly those in underserved areas.
Contact
thefreshwaterlab@gmail.com
(312) 996-6352
The Freshwater Lab
Great Cities Institute (MC 107)
College of Urban Planning and Public Affairs
University of Illinois Chicago
412 South Peoria Street, Suite 400
Chicago, Illinois 60607-7067