Center for Natural Environment Sciences Researches Sustainable Use of Natural Resources

Copyright Nihon University

The Department of Bioresource Sciences at Nihon University has been conducting an integrated research project, the "Integrated Research on the Environment toward the Sustainable Use of Bioresources," at the Center for Natural Environment Sciences (CNES) since the spring of 2002. The research pursues three main goals: Basic research for assessing sustainability of industrial and social systems, developing biofunctions, using such biofunctions to promote environmental conservation and to develop of restoration technologies, and the development of ecological designs for the environment. In 2007 they started practical research on educational programs to integrate their research achievements into environmental education and the development of teaching materials.

The Center's building itself serves as part of the research apparatus, with the roof and walls used for greening studies, a cascade-type experimental biotope pond which circulates from the roof to the lower level garden, a below-ground air-conditioning system that exchanges heat with groundwater by a heat pump, and both solar- and wind-power generation equipment. There is also an experimental field for a rice terrace, a permaculture garden, and a straw bale house.

Based on the concept to be "a model facility for ecological designs that harness nature and organisms," CNES continues to grow and develop thanks to the help from faculty members, students, and businesses.

- Center for Natural Environment Sciences (CNES)
http://www.cnes.brs.nihon-u.ac.jp/english/

Posted: 2009/01/17 06:00:15 AM

TAG Ecosystem , University/Research institute