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Climate and Sustainability Academy

NC State PACKlab

Using our expansive campus as an innovation ecosystem for real-world impact.

Problems Solved Here

Tomorrow’s challenges aren’t solved with yesterday’s solutions. Climate and other global sustainability challenges require bold new thought, which can be launched and tested on NC State’s growing campus.

NC State PACKlab (Place-based Applied Collaborative Knowledge Lab) is a framework for campus-based exploration of solutions that can drive meaningful change for people, places and the planet. The PACKlab program is facilitated through the Climate and Sustainability Academy, the University Sustainability Office and an advisory group that intentionally bridges academics and operations.

Campus As A City

By population, NC State is equivalent to the 23rd largest city in North Carolina, serving as a living lab for urban futures.

The NC State physical campus and operational context provide a rich backdrop for studying complex problems, testing cutting-edge ideas and deploying real-world solutions. The goal is to pilot and amplify scalable solutions that positively impact campus and beyond.

Creating A Living Lab

PACKlab is a convergence of interdisciplinary research, teaching, engagement and campus operations. The PACKlab program seeks to elevate and amplify your idea, helping connect you with potential collaborators. All PACKlab projects are:

Place-based

PACKlab projects integrate NC State’s physical campus or its operations, driving positive impact while also accelerating the university’s sustainability goals and value. 

Collaborative

PACKlab projects involve interdisciplinary collaborations and end user co-creation. There is power in bringing the campus community together with industry, government and local partners.

Impactful

PACKlab projects result in measurable outcomes that contribute to resilient, transformative futures. These projects advance understanding of a real-world sustainability issue or solve a specific sustainability problem.

Explore With Us

Have an idea or potential project? Are you looking for collaborators or additional support? The PACKlab program can help:

  • Build connections between operations and academics
  • Identify potential partners, collaborators or resources
  • Navigate campus requirements and processes
  • Create applied learning opportunities for students
  • Amplify impact and outcomes

What’s your idea?

Let us know how we can help.

Interest Form