Environment
Speaking with Scent
Robert Raguso studies chemical communication between plants and their pollinators and predators. Divided between field experiments and computer modeling, Raguso's research is explaining how scent functions as a chemical language. This information builds a broader understanding of ecosystem function, biodiversity, and the interplay between plant defense and reproduction.
Life scientists at Cornell are using advances in the biorevolution to restore ecological balance, promote environmental health, and create economic opportunities.
Discoveries are leading to new sources of cleaner air, water, and energy. New data and tools are being used to minimize or even help reverse the causes of climate change. Efforts to conserve and increase biodiversity are stabilizing ecosystems and, in turn, ensuring the survival of many species.
For example, Cornell researchers are analyzing the health and evolution of plant and animal species that are affected by human-wrought changes in ecosystems. They are working to ensure that agriculture has a minimal envorinmental impact. And at the intersections of biology, physics, and chemistry, they are developing biodegradable plastics and studying microorganisms that can clean up toxic substances.