Center for Environmental Farming Systems

The Center for Environmental Farming Systems (CEFS) at NC State University has a mission to develop and promote food and farming systems that protect the environment, strengthen local communities, and provide economic opportunities in North Carolina and beyond. CEFS works towards these goals by conducting research into improving sustainable farming techniques; reducing costly inputs and improving the economic autonomy of North Carolina's agrarian community.

NC Research Campus at Kannapolis

The North Carolina Research Campus (NCRC), on the site of the old Pillowtex Corporation manufacturing plant in Kannapolis, is a private-public venture created to foster breakthroughs in the fields of biotechnology, nutrition, and health. In addition to its mission to advance health research, the campus is intended as a source of sustainable employment for the people of Kannapolis, transitioning the community from a manufacturing-based economy to one centered on research.

Coastal Hazards Study

Drs. Stephen Culver and Stanley Riggs from East Carolina University conducted a study examining the economic impact of North Carolina's vulnerability to severe weather events. They found that the dynamic nature of North Carolina's costal geography presents significant challenges to making long-term coastal investments, (roads, bridges, tourist communities, etc.) but suggested ideas for adaptive economic development in their document "North Carolina Coasts in Crisis".

UNC Research: Contribution to Economic Development

Each new discovery by UNC researchers is an opportunity for economic development, either through the creation of new industries and jobs, or through the improved public knowledge. Dr. Steven Leath, UNC Vice President for Research, was recently interviewed on UNC-TV about some of the specific ways research at the university contributes to the State's economic development.