Drew Michanowicz is a Visiting Scientist at Harvard Chan C-CHANGE and is also part of The Nature Conservancy’s NatureNet Science Fellows Program class of 2015.
Drew’s research interests are related to poorly understood and emerging environmental hazards on both global- and community-level scales. One such emerging issue is the penetration of renewables into an aging and poorly adaptable energy system. To better inform the public and policy makers, we are developing a national census-like database of determinants of energy infrastructural integrity, starting with underground natural gas storage. These data can be utilized to measure hazard consequence and triage management policies based on risks to public health. Additionally, Drew and colleagues are developing a 3D air quality monitoring drone using gas sensing technologies that can be deployed in spaces previously inaccessible to traditional sampling methods.
Drew received both a Master and Doctor of Public Health from the University of Pittsburgh’s Graduate School of Public Health. In 2009, Drew received an Environmental Health Risk Assessment Certification and passed the National Board Certification of Public Health exam.
Study: 2018 Powhatan methane leak one of largest in US
Data finds that the methane leak in 2018 that followed an explosion near Powhatan Point may have been the largest in American history. Our nat gas expert weighs in.
Where to build global renewable energy to do the most good—a guide for sustainable investments
New metrics can guide investors and policymakers working to reach sustainable development goals.
Where to install renewable energy to get the greatest climate and health benefits in the U.S.
A guide for state and national policymakers designing climate plans and for utility and investor decisions.
New Harvard study shows where to install renewable energy in the U.S. to achieve the greatest climate and health benefits
Models offer guidance for state and national policymakers designing climate action plans.
TRECH Project Research Update on Health Benefits of TCI Policy Scenarios
Exploring how different transportation policies could influence health through better air quality and increases in physical activity.
Problematic Natural Gas Storage Well Design Said Widely Used in U.S.
Many underground natural gas storage wells are potentially dangerous and need more regulation, says our Research Associate Drew Michanowicz.
Many More People Live Closer To Underground Gas Storage Wells Than Previously Thought
An estimated 20,000 homes and 53,000 people in predominantly suburban areas of PA, OH, WV, MI, NY, and CA live within a city block of active underground natural gas storage wells.
Harvard study uses new method to show how close residents live to Aliso Canyon-type wells
Study finds 20,000 homes and 53,000 people in predominantly suburban areas of PA, OH, WV, MI, NY, and CA live within a city block of active underground natural gas storage wells.
A Gas Company Settles for $119.5 Million for the biggest methane leak in US History
After one of its natural gas storage wells blew out and caused the biggest methane leak in United States history, the Southern California Gas Company has agreed to pay $119.5 million to settle city, county, and state claims against it.
In California, natural gas availability still an issue 3 years after major leak
In May, research fellow Drew R. Michanowicz argued in the Los Angeles Times that using depleted oil wells as high-pressure natural gas storage tanks requires modern engineering against blowouts
