The Rutgers Climate and Energy Institute seeks to contribute to a resilient, equitable, and sustainable climate future. RCEI connects faculty, staff, and students through transformative climate change research, innovation, education, and outreach.

Applications Close July 10, 2026

RCEI Clean Energy Fellowship Program

Applications Open Until July 10

The RCEI Clean Energy Fellowship Program is a prestigious, paid opportunity offered in collaboration with the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU). This fellowship is designed to provide current Rutgers graduate students specialized, hands-on experience within the clean energy sector.

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Affiliate Research Highlight

Are “Eco-Friendly” Plastics Really Better for the Environment?

Publication by RCEI affiliate Judith S. Weis

According to a new study co-authored by RCEI affiliate Judith S. Weis, it's not that simple. The term "bioplastics" encompasses a wide variety of materials that can differ heavily from each other in terms of environmental impact. Some may break down in nature, while others can only degrade in specific, man-manipulated conditions. In fact, many bioplastics were found to be even more toxic for the environment due to chemical additives, all the more reason to use caution and conduct further research when incorporating them into policy.

Now, more than ever, we need you.

Our work has never mattered more. We all understand the stakes. The Earth continues to warm, and human and ecological communities suffer from the impacts of a changing climate. The creativity, passion, and stubborn resolve RCEI affiliates and their students have for their climate change and renewable energy scholarship persevere.

Your contributions will support graduate students and early career scholars, research programs that develop real-world solutions, and building connections between the arts and sciences.

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