Strategic Plan 2021-2026

Through strong academics, research and outreach programs, we create solutions that matter and generate economic value across North Carolina and the nation. Discover more about our strategic vision and future impact.

The Planet is Our Classroom

Our work at the College of Natural Resources has never been more relevant. Communities around the world are waking up to the immense realities of the local and global challenges we all face at the intersection of our environments and society.

The issues our work touches are broad and complex. From the significant rise in forest fires, deforestation and flooding to the growing challenges of air and water pollution; from the rapid depletion of natural resources to the need for accelerated innovation to sustainably engineer bio-based materials; from social and environmental inequality to the profound need for accessible parks and recreation infrastructure and services that contribute to healthier people and communities, and so much more.

Our impact lives in the many ways we act on these challenges and work collectively to foster healthy ecosystems and communities through our research, education and outreach.

Vision

The College of Natural Resources aspires to build a world in which everyone is welcomed and empowered to explore, protect and enjoy the full diversity of our environment and our communities, while advancing equality and sustainability for all.

Student in the field - Strategic Plan - College of Natural Resources

Mission

We deliver impactful and innovative education, research, engagement and partnerships that empower our students and stakeholders to better our planet, communities, industries, economy and the world.

Students in the field - Strategic Plan - College of Natural Resources — Students in Dr. Steph Jeffries’ (at far left) dendrology class work through a plant identification exercise. Photo by Becky Kirkland.

Values

+ Representation
+ Community
+ Collaboration
+ Innovation
+ Sustainability

Faculty and student in the paper making area - Strategic Plan - College of Natural Resources

Strategic Priorities

Our future-focused strategy is all about taking our work more deliberately out into the world around us to learn from and contribute to the critical challenges impacting our environment and our society. Our three strategic priorities will help us deepen our connection with our environment and our communities to create space where innovation and new solutions grow.

1. Collaboration

Collaborate now to solve urgent challenges at the intersection of the environment, economy and society.

Let’s empower collaborative research, learning, engagement and sharing that contribute critical solutions toward sustainable environments and healthy, prosperous communities.

Aerial photo of a paper mill in Fernandina Beach near Jacksonville, Florida - NC State University

NC State Researchers Developing Climate-Friendly Solution for Pulp and Paper Industry

NC State researchers will lead a $2.6 million project aimed at developing a nature-based, renewable technology to reduce the carbon emissions of kraft pulping.

New Facility to Produce First Crop of Genetically-Improved Christmas Trees

NC State researchers are one step closer to harvesting the first crop of genetically-improved Fraser firs for growers to plant in their own fields.

Urban Tree Planting is Booming, Just Not In Low-Income and Minority Neighborhoods

The distribution of trees remains inequitable in many American cities, with low-income and non-white neighborhoods typically having fewer trees.

2. Engagement

Engage with our natural environments, industries and communities as the world’s best classrooms, laboratories and platforms.

Let’s nurture spaces and places where industry, community and academia can come together to innovate a sustainable and prosperous future for all.

Ground biomass - New Research Program Investigates Carbon Footprint of Fibers to Combat Climate Change - College of Natural Resources News NC State University

Scientists Investigate Carbon Footprint of Fibers to Combat Climate Change

“This is groundbreaking research that will help in the fight against climate change by providing quantitative information that consumers can use in their purchase decision-making,” said NC State professor Ronalds Gonzalez.

Metal wolf sculpture along the stairwell in the Reynolds Coliseum Walk of Fame - College of Natural Resources at NC State University

NC State Professor Part of Global Initiative to Make Sports More Sustainable

Jonathan Casper is one of the co-authors of “Sports for Nature,” a report commissioned by the United Nations Environment Programme to set a baseline for “nature conscious work” in the sport sector.

Natural Resources Students Raise Awareness of Ghost Forests

A project led by NC State students is helping to educate the state’s coastal communities about the significance of ghost forests.

3. Community

Take bold actions to strengthen community, well-being and belonging in all our work.

Let’s center the need for equality and representation in all our work, valuing the contributions of everyone in our community and breaking down barriers in learning, research and knowledge-sharing.

Women in Sport Leadership Summit Empowers Female Athletes and Students

The event serves as an important resource to develop, connect and advance female professionals who will be entering the sport industry.

Buzzard Leadership Development Program Finds Success in Inaugural Year

The program’s first cohort of 18 students enjoyed ropes courses, workshops focused on emotional intelligence, a roundtable with NC State Chancellor Randy Woodson, and much more.

Muhammad Ikbal Putera is encouraging a global community of park rangers

As the first park ranger from Komodo National Park — and possibly the first from Indonesia’s Ministry of Forestry — to undertake this advanced degree, Ikbal aims to break barriers and inspire others.

Call to Action:
Collaborate now to build a sustainable and prosperous future for all.