RESEARCH FOCUS

RESEARCH AT THE ISLAND POLICY LAB

RESEARCH AREAS

Island Policy Lab’s research focusses on three key themes that define vulnerable sector and challenges faced by islands: Energy and Climate Change, Environment and Natural Resources and Industry and Economy.  IPL works within Small Island Developing States, US Island and Territories and archipelagic countries. 

Energy & Climate Change

Developing renewable energy and addressing climate change is essential for islands’ progress.  IPL research is focussed on uncovering policies and technologies for island sustainable and overall progress.

  • Climate
  • Renewable Energy Systems
  • Transportation
  • Energy Efficiency

Environment & Natural Resources

IPL research is also focussed in conserving the islands’ fragile environment and finding the right balance between infrastructural development and environmental safeguarding.

  • Environment
  • Air Pollution
  • Waste Management 
  • Sustainable Development

Industry & Economy

A working economy and resilience industrial sector is fundamental for islands’ progress.  IPL engages in working towards increasing resilience of the industrial sector in islands faced with external shock.

  • Tourism and Hotels
  • Exports and Imports
  • Small and Medium Enterprises 
  • Blue economy

We are open to work with businesses, universities, NGOs, and governmental agencies in island nations on grants, educational or research projects.  You can send us an email and we will be very happy to collaborate with you wherever possible.

WHERE DO WE WORK

Small Island Developing States

Small Island Developing States (SIDS) is a distinct group of developing countries, recognized by the United Nations since 1992 as a special case for both their environment and development.  The three geographic regions in which SIDS are located are: the Caribbean, the Pacific and the Atlantic, Indian Ocean and South China Sea.  The IPL works in addressing SIDS host of sustainability challenges to strengthen resiliency and ensure a sustaining environment.  

U.S Islands and Territories

The IPL has weaved a robust research and educational network with U.S islands and territories of Puerto Rico, Guam, U.S Virgin Islands and others, and work in different areas to ensure their sustainable economic development.

Archipelagic countries

Archipelagic islands are a cluster or chain of islands surrounded by a sea.  The IPL works with different archipelagic countries like the Bahamas, Indonesia and the Philippines to offer solutions to their sustainable development problems.  

Island Policy Lab
Joseph R. Biden, Jr. School of Public Policy & Administration
270C Graham Hall
University of Delaware
Newark, DE 19716, USA
Phone: 302-831-4700
islandpolicylab@udel.edu