John W. Sutherland addressed “Sustainable Manufacturing: Origins and Future Directions” during the College of Engineering & Computer Science’s Hulings Distinguished Lecture Series speaker on Oct. 19. Sutherland, a renowned expert in sustainable manufacturing, offered insights into the critical need for environmentally responsible manufacturing processes to meet the challenges posed by climate change, resource shortages, and waste management.
Sutherland, Ph.D., is currently the Fehsenfeld Family Head in the Department of Environmental and Ecological Engineering at Purdue University. His lecture emphasized the importance of fundamental changes in the manufacturing ecosystem. He explored the origins of sustainable manufacturing, including efforts to reduce the use of cutting fluids in machining operations and tackling material-related challenges vital for clean energy technologies.
Looking ahead, Sutherland highlighted promising areas of research, including the circular economy, greener manufacturing processes, smart/sustainable manufacturing, and social sustainability indicators. These innovations are designed to reduce environmental impacts while fostering economic growth.
“In the face of today’s environmental challenges, the future of manufacturing depends on our ability to innovate and embrace sustainable practices,” Sutherland said. “It’s up to the next generation of engineers to lead the way, developing greener processes and smarter technologies that will drive both environmental and economic progress.”
As a pioneer in environmentally responsible manufacturing, Sutherland has mentored more than 100 students and published nearly 500 research papers. His contributions to the field have earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the National Academy of Engineering in 2023. Through his leadership, Purdue University’s Environmental and Ecological Engineering program has become one of the largest in the country, focusing on industrial sustainability alongside traditional environmental engineering disciplines.
“This lecture series brings industry leaders like Dr. Sutherland to The University of Tulsa, offering students invaluable insights into the future of engineering,” said Andreas A. Polycarpou, Ph.D. and James R. Sorem Inaugural Dean of the College of Engineering & Computer Science. “It’s an opportunity for them to learn from pioneers who are shaping sustainable practices, preparing our students to meet global challenges head-on.”
For more information on the Hulings Distinguished Lecture Series, visit https://calendar.utulsa.edu/