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PCGS presents at the Florida Energy & Climate Summit

Dr. George Philippidis, PCGS Associate Dean of Research and Associate Professor, was invited by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) to speak at the Florida Energy & Climate Summit on Oct. 1-3, 2019 in Tampa.  Dr. Philippidis participated in the “Research & Development” panel and provided an overview of the cutting-edge applied research pursued across USF in renewable biofuels and biomaterials from biomass, algae, carinata oilseeds, and waste gases, concentrating solar power, energy storage, and smart materials in an effort to make the economy and society more sustainable.  USF is a state and national leader in translating renewable energy research into technology for the marketplace through intellectual property development and partnerships with start-up and established companies and organizations around the world.

Opening remarks at the Summit were provided by FDACS Commissioner Nikki Fried, US Congresswoman Kathy Castor, and Tampa Mayor Jane Castor.  Attendees included representatives from industry, government, academia, NGO, and community groups.  In the afternoon of Oct. 2, Congresswoman Castor (photo) was hosted by PCGS at the Patel Center Auditorium to present the activities and goals of the US House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis, which she chairs, and respond to questions by students, faculty, and the community.