Living labs, also referred to as experiential learning, is an approach of using campus operations as an educational opportunity for students. This past year, the Office of Sustainability partnered with Assistant Professor Morgan Edwards and her Public Affairs 881: Cost-Benefit Analysis course at the La Follette School of Public Affairs. A student team evaluated costs and benefits of different options for pursuing 100% renewable energy goals. This hands-on, real-world research will inform the Office of Sustainability about available options for improving campus sustainability and resilience. The final report from the class analyzed six scenarios the university could take to achieve 100% renewable energy, which will inform the university’s climate action plan.
