Eric Hoek named faculty director of Sustainable LA Grand Challenge

UCLA announced that Eric Hoek, professor of civil and environmental engineering in the UCLA Samueli School of Engineering, has been appointed as the new faculty director of the Sustainable LA Grand Challenge (SLA GC). In his new role, Hoek will offer vision and leadership to the SLA GC and cultivate partnerships with faculty and stakeholders invested in the initiative.

As one of the original faculty founders of the SLA GC, Hoek referred to the appointment as being “…a full circle moment for me. Seven years ago, I was part of a group of faculty who sat down to brainstorm what UCLA could achieve for sustainability if we worked together. Since then, the Sustainable LA Grand Challenge has accomplished more than we ever thought was possible. But the stakes are even higher today. I’m honored to have this opportunity to accelerate UCLA’s impact and create a more sustainable future for Los Angeles.”

Hoek’s research interests revolve around nanomaterials and membrane technologies applied to water purification, renewable energy and environmental protection – all keys to sustainability. His vision for the wastewater treatment plan of the future — one that transforms waste into energy, fertilizer, and clean water — was one of the first research projects envisioned and funded by the Sustainable LA Grand Challenge.

Read more at UCLA Newsroom.