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Living Lab for Sustainability

Sustainable Stanford promotes and facilitates stakeholder collaboration to leverage the campus as a test-bed for innovation and the co-production of sustainability knowledge.

A Living Laboratory for Sustainability

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At Stanford, the campus itself becomes a dynamic “living laboratory,” where operational and academic partnerships spark groundbreaking solutions to some of the world’s most pressing sustainability challenges. By bringing together students, staff, faculty, industry leaders, and community members, this unique platform accelerates innovation, addresses complex operational hurdles, and develops transformative strategies in areas such as climate, waste, energy, and beyond. Through this collaborative ecosystem, Stanford not only drives actionable solutions but also nurtures the next generation of systems-change leaders prepared to make a global impact.

Celebrating Stanford as a Living Laboratory for Sustainability

APPLICATIONS FOR STUDENT SUSTAINABILITY POSITIONS NOW OPEN FOR AY 25-26. 

Apply now, deadlines vary by position. 

Learn More and Apply Now

The Living Lab at Stanford comes to life through four key pathways: Research Partnerships, Course Collaborations, Tours, and Student Positions

Research Partnerships

Stanford’s campus and systems offer a unique platform for academic research to turn visionary ideas into operational realities that advance the university’s sustainability goals. These partnerships drive the development of cutting-edge technologies and solutions that not only serve as a model for Stanford but can also be scaled and implemented at other institutions and in cities worldwide, amplifying the impact of Stanford’s innovations.

Course Collaborations

Some of Stanford’s academic courses provide students with the opportunity to address real-world sustainability challenges and develop practical, impactful solutions. By harnessing the collective expertise and creativity of faculty, staff, and students, these unique courses transform the campus into a living laboratory, fostering interdisciplinary learning and driving meaningful progress in sustainability.

Student Positions

Through paid sustainability roles across the university, students engage in valuable experiential learning opportunities that enhance their leadership and professional skills. Internships and fellowships allow students to tackle impactful projects in areas such as climate action, zero waste, sustainable communication, transportation, embodied carbon emissions, and more. These hands-on experiences empower students to drive meaningful change and prepare for future leadership in sustainability.

APPLICATIONS FOR STUDENT SUSTAINABILITY POSITIONS NOW OPEN FOR AY 25-26. Apply now, deadlines vary by position. 

Tours

Exploring the vibrant Stanford campus and its cutting-edge facilities offers a unique opportunity to learn beyond the classroom. Through guided, self-guided, and virtual tours accessible to a global audience, Stanford community members and visitors can gain valuable insights and inspiration from the university's innovative sustainable systems and initiatives.