Living Laboratory for Sustainability at Stanford (SUSTAIN 119)

3 credits · Graduate

Living Laboratory for Sustainability at Stanford immerses students in the practical application of sustainability across Stanford's social, operational, and physical infrastructure. Operating at a city scale, the campus serves as an active testing ground for analyzing how complex systems sustain modern life while addressing pressing environmental challenges. Through behind-the-scenes tours and direct engagement with campus leaders and subject matter experts, students will develop foundational knowledge of key operational systems including energy, water, waste, land, transportation, buildings, food, and procurement. Students will evaluate the political, economic, and social factors that influence sustainability decisions and adoption of them, building actionable skills to navigate real-world constraints, and lead sustainability transitions both on campus and beyond. Open to all disciplines, this course is ideal for students seeking to drive institutional change or explore pathways toward Sustainable Stanford internships, fellowships, and research.