Internships

Alex Moosbrugger ’24

Major

Civil and Environmental Engineering

Project Title

Nature-based Climate Solutions, Blue Carbon

Presentation Link

View Alex's Presentation

Certificate(s): Geological Engineering

I worked with the Environmental Defense Fund to research and analyze different methods of seaweed aquaculture. I evaluated these methods based on adherence to carbon-capture criteria, scientific rigor, co-benefits provided, contributions to environmental justice, and near-term feasibility. I contributed to a manuscript (soon to be submitted for publication) on the potential and readiness of seaweed as a major contributor to blue carbon, which is carbon sequestered in marine systems. I also contributed to an internal comparison study to help my team create a roadmap for including seaweed in countries’ blue carbon plans. Additionally, I researched various specific questions relating to seaweed blue carbon, such as possible halocarbon emissions from seaweed, how to incorporate seaweed into cattle feed to reduce enteric methane emissions, and investigated the appetite for seaweed as food. My work involved collaboration and interviewing experts, and I learned how to work well in a research-focused team: asking questions to both learn what I needed to, taking advantage of the expertise of my colleagues, and sharing information in the most helpful and effective ways. Because of this internship, I anticipate that ocean- and nature-based climate solutions will play a large role in my future study and career.