Campus Living Labs in Transition

Abstract

This dissertation investigates how Higher Education Institutions can contribute to a climate-neutral future by leveraging campus-based living labs—real-world spaces where stakeholders co-create innovative sustainable solutions. By investigating the case of the Delft University of Technology, this research quantifies the university’s carbon footprint and identifies major emission hotspots, providing a baseline for targeted climate action.
Campus living labs are a promising approach to address complex sustainability challenges, such as creating a climate-neutral campus. However, the intricacies of facilitating and running these living labs remain underexamined. This dissertation addresses this gap by examining the challenges of campus living labs and highlighting key enablers—such as effective stakeholder collaboration, organizational integration, and a supportive work culture. Central to this research is the "Campus as a Living Lab" framework, a comprehensive approach where the entire university serves as a breeding ground for sustainable experimentation and innovation. Moving beyond isolated initiatives, the Campus as a Living Lab seeks to foster synergies across activities, thereby amplifying their potential impacts towards climate neutrality on campus and beyond.
Through practical insights and actionable recommendations, this dissertation provides a base for Higher Education Institutions and living lab practitioners to co-create sustainable solutions for today’s complex challenges. The time for action is now.