Geotechnical engineering may not be the most visible aspect of infrastructure, but it plays a crucial role in preventing complications before they occur, says Mina Lee.

A professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Dr. Lee argues the approach is essential for the stability of buildings, roads, and foundations.

“We not only delve into the intersection of geotechnical engineering but also how it aligns with sustainable development, particularly focusing on Sustainable Development Goal 15 — Life on Land,” she says.

Conducting life cycle assessments of such constructions as retaining walls and foundations is one of her main research focuses. She measures the impact of these structures on the environment and their effects on land and water systems, with the aim of empowering engineers with the knowledge and skills to minimize environmental damage while preserving structural integrity.

Acknowledging that infrastructure must be made more resilient because of the rising frequency of climate-related natural disasters like landslides and flooding, Lee examines how geotechnical engineering might reduce the effects of disasters by enhancing the resilience of transportation networks and other vital infrastructure.

Find the entire story in the 2024 edition of Windsor Engineering magazine.