The Scheduling for Sustainability (S4S) initiative is designed to optimize energy use, save staff time, and cut costs by piloting a system that enhances the efficiency and transparency of HVAC scheduling across Stanford’s buildings, ensuring comfort and supporting research and teaching activities. The S4S platform integrates existing automation, data management, and analytics capabilities, simplifying the process without requiring deep technical knowledge.
This project aims to position Stanford at the forefront of sustainability, harnessing technology, teamwork, and behavioral shifts to markedly decrease its environmental footprint. Specifically, this project could enable real-time adjustments based on actual occupancy, significantly reducing energy consumption and operational costs.
This project involves creating a standardized Stanford building data ontology with meta-tagging, leveraging large-scale modern database technologies, and developing a user-friendly GUI that adheres to change management strategies. The S4S initiative will pilot an occupancy-based HVAC scheduling system in the Gates Building, aiming to reduce energy consumption by 20% by adjusting HVAC operations based on real-time occupancy data.
This system will enhance operational efficiency by automating scheduling, reducing manual labor, and providing room-level control to optimize energy use and minimize waste.
The integration of the occupancy-based HVAC scheduling model in the Gates Building demonstrates significant improvements in energy efficiency and operational effectiveness, with room-by-room adjustments proving particularly effective. Despite substantial technical challenges in integrating the software with existing infrastructure, the project highlights the potential for scalable energy-saving solutions across various building types. This initiative not only advances sustainability but also has been a key element in developing my skills in project management and technological implementation.
A continuation of the S4S project could include expanding the pilot to more buildings on campus, utilizing a phased approach to integrate feedback and optimize the system before wider deployment. Case studies on the impact of this work could aid similar sustainability initiatives at other institutions. Engaging in further research to refine the model and adapt it to different types of buildings or climates will also be crucial.
Justin West (he/him), BS Computer Science AI ’25 is a B.S. candidate in Computer Science, specializing in the Artificial Intelligence Track. He has conducted research on transitioning institutions to Zero Waste, with findings presented at the National Council of Undergraduate Research (NCUR) and the Great Plains Honor Council (GPHC). With a background in cyber security from his tenure at NASA, Justin delved into digital forensics and Red Team tactics. He is deeply committed to the equitable use of data, having authored Artificial Intelligence Policy for the City of San Jose. In his previous role as a Sustainability Data Analyst for R&DE, he deployed a campus-wide Internet of Things (IoT) sensor network and developed machine learning models that notably decreased resource consumption. Currently, Justin is working on a project that integrates cutting-edge smart building technology with diverse databases and systems.
Stanford has set a new benchmark for sustainability at live events through its first major concert hosted by Stanford Athletics and Stanford Live. Sustainable Stanford hosted a fireside chat with sustainability leadership from Live Nation and Warner Music Group in tandem with this milestone.
From reducing embodied carbon in construction to piloting organic landscape management, the annual Student Sustainability Symposium highlighted how student-led innovation is driving sustainability at Stanford.
The Responsible Purchasing Department hosted an information session to inform the Stanford community about how everyday purchasing choices — like reusing, sourcing locally, and slowing shipping — can drive big sustainability impacts.
