We only have one planet.
As a society, we’re increasingly faced with solving the complex and multi-dimensional issue of climate change. And while there is reason for concern, there is also one very clear reason for optimism: innovation.
History demonstrates that there’s almost nothing humans cannot achieve when they’re put to the test and have the right incentives.
Environmental scientists are constantly developing new technologies that completely shift what we once knew about sustainability.
For example, even a decade ago, it was clear that renewables were the future…it was just a question of how soon the science could catch up to the economics. Fast forward to 2020 and solar efficiency has skyrocketed, meaning the costs have plummeted, faster than anyone could have imagined. Now, we live in a society where new renewables cost less than existing fossil fuels.
The solution to the climate problem will always be tethered to policy, public opinion, and the economy, but the one thing that has the potential to completely change the game is innovation. And I believe it will.
However, in order for innovation to succeed, it needs two things: 1) funding, and 2) brain power. We need the smartest people in the world to be incentivized to work on the most important problem facing the world’s 7 billion people.
And while most scientific research is funded by companies, it’s important to support scientists tackling important environmental issues independent of a company’s agenda. With that, the Amplify Green Innovation Scholarship will support one student who is dedicated to preserving our planet through green innovation and science.
The scholarship is open to undergraduate and graduate school students in any field of study.
This scholarship is part of a 12-part, AMPLIFY Scholarship Series, spanning topics including women in tech, continuous learning, environmental science, and more. These scholarships are announced quarterly and awarded monthly throughout 2021. Follow along here!