University of Georgia
IN-27: Innovation D

The New Materials Institute (NMI), launched in 2017, is a transdisciplinary institute that facilitates integrative, collaborative research at the fundamental, testbed and systems levels that results in new materials based on green engineering principles. Globally, we currently generate some 2.5 billion metric tons of waste per year for a population that’s expected to increase by roughly 33%, to 9.2 billion people, by 2050 (as projected by the United Nations). Much of this waste is plastic, which persists in our landfills, as well as in our oceans, and endangers human, animal and ecological health. At the New Materials Institute, we think it’s time for a paradigm shift in waste management; that a material’s useful end-of-life should be considered at the design stage and that Green Engineering principles should be part of this process. The NMI welcomes partnerships. We work with a wide range of partners to pioneer systems and materials that promote circularity, for proactive materials management. Whether it be circular materials management systems at the municipal to global scale or innovative and truly biodegradable materials that meet the high expectations of industry and the consumers they serve, we take a holistic approach to your issues. And as we work, we’re also training the next generation of engineers and scientists, so that they consider our context-driven and Green Engineering design approach in all they do. NMI takes a systems approach to the challenges of design and disposal of new products and materials. Its goal is the development of new materials guided by Green Engineering principles: the design and use of processes and products in a way that minimizes pollution, promotes sustainability and protects human health—without sacrificing economic viability and efficiency. Work with us, as we take your product, product idea, or system to our bench and thoughtfully design it for tomorrow. For more information, email us at newmaterials@uga.edu.

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