About

Short Biography

I am Zainab Tariq, a Ph.D. in Environmental Science and Management at Montclair State University (New Jersey, USA). My doctoral research focuses on the sustainability assessment of food waste valorization pathways, integrating Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Life Cycle Costing (LCC) to evaluate their environmental and economic impacts.

Before beginning my doctoral studies, I earned a Master of Science in Environmental Science from the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY-ESF), where I conducted an award-winning thesis on the Lifecycle Assessment of Shrub Willow Evapotranspiration Covers compared to conventional clay and geosynthetic systems. My academic foundation also includes a Master’s degree in Environmental Science from the International Islamic University, Islamabad, where I investigated renewable biofuels from bitter almond oil.

My career combines academic research, industry partnerships, and policy relevance, reflecting a strong commitment to advancing the principles of sustainable manufacturing, circular economy, and climate mitigation.

Research Philosophy

Sustainability challenges require systems-level solutions that balance environmental performance with cost-effectiveness and social acceptance. My research philosophy is built on three principles:

1. Interdisciplinary rigor – applying scientific frameworks such as LCA and LCC across sectors, including waste management, renewable energy, and sustainable supply chains.

2. Translational impact – ensuring that academic insights are actionable for industry and policymakers, bridging the gap between theoretical models and real-world implementation.

3. Equity and resilience – recognizing that energy and resource transitions must address both global climate goals and local socio-economic contexts.

Through these principles, my work aims to contribute to evidence-based decision-making that supports both climate targets and economic development.

Career Goals

I aim to build a career at the intersection of academic research, industry innovation, and policy engagement. Specifically, I seek to:

• Advance cutting-edge research in bioeconomy and circular economy frameworks, focusing on sustainable energy transitions.

• Collaborate with corporate partners to design carbon reduction strategies that align with net-zero targets (as demonstrated during my EDF Climate Corps Fellowship with T-Mobile and my internship at Carlisle Construction Materials).

• Mentor and train the next generation of students in environmental systems analysis, sustainability metrics, and policy evaluation.

• Contribute to international energy and climate policy dialogues, particularly in regions such as South Asia, where energy transitions are both urgent and complex.

Personal Note

Beyond research, I am motivated by a deep interest in creating practical solutions for sustainability that can help bridge the gap between industrial performance, climate policy, and community well-being. My academic journey has been shaped by global experiences in Pakistan and the United States, equipping me with the perspective to work across diverse social and cultural contexts.