Historically Black Prairie View A&M University in Texas has entered into a five-year partnership with Shell Global Solutions. The research agreement focuses on innovation and agriculture. The project will be headquartered in the university’s College of Agriculture and Human Sciences.
The PVAMU-Shell Nature-Based Solutions Research Program is aimed at effective carbon dioxide utilization and carbon capture by employing innovative renewable energy and environmental sustainability methods. The agreement will provide $5 million for research projects on the university’s 700-acre farm. Shell has committed an additional $1 million to the university for infrastructure improvements and to provide work experience opportunities and retention programs for students.
“The opportunity to be able to join forces and to take action that acknowledges the progress we’re making — in terms of giving opportunities to our students, couldn’t be better in my estimation,” said Ruth J. Simmons, president of Prairie View A&M University. “Its comprehensive approach-involving infrastructure, research collaboration, internships, and ongoing staff involvement-is especially welcome.”
“To build an energy future that is cleaner, more sustainable, and more just, it will take hard work as well as insights from diverse perspectives – and we see communities like Prairie View as essential to the success of that formula,” added Gretchen Watkins, president of Shell Oil Company. “The Shell-PVAMU Nature-Based Solutions Research Program is going to be the world’s or one of the world’s preeminent soil research projects.”
