Laura Edelman, 2014, Chemical and Biological Engineering

Laura Edelman ’14

For my internship with the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) I investigated permitted greenhouse gas emissions under the Clean Air Act’s Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) program, which was recently launched to regulate greenhouse gases. My project was to assess the effectiveness of the early stages of the PSD program. Throughout the summer I delved into 42 permits looking at fuel selection, energy efficiency technology, and evaluation of carbon capture and storage. I did a more detailed examination of natural gas power plants and cement manufacturing plants. After my analysis I shared my findings over phone conferences with the Environmental Protection Agency and other environmental non-governmental organizations (NGOs) so that the results of my research can be used to ensure the success of greenhouse gas regulation.
Working with the EDF reaffirmed my interest in environmental issues. Through this internship I also honed my research, communication, and presentation skills, and found a medium through which I can study scientific issues outside of a laboratory – something that may be an option for my future career.