Through the Sustainable Suds initiative, NC State Student Government’s Department of Sustainability introduced a zero-waste laundry detergent solution to students.

With support from the NC State Sustainability Fund FastTrack Grant, the team purchased biodegradable detergent sheets last spring, which use fewer additives and are gentler on both skin, clothes and laundry machines. The project also launched a seven-part educational series that helped students examine everyday habits and discover more sustainable alternatives.

A major highlight was a donation of 4,800 detergent sheets to Feed the Pack Food Pantry, supporting students who may not have regular access to basic necessities.

“Sustainable Suds created an impact that was twofold: encouraging students to change everyday habits through education and discussion, and providing hundreds of students a simple yet necessary resource — detergent — to start that change,” said Kairavi Garde, who coordinated the project. “But beyond that, the funding proved to student innovators that their words and actions could have notable, recognized impact.”

The Sustainability Fund FastTrack Grant offers up to $1,000 for student-led sustainability projects this academic year. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m., November 12.

Need more funding and time? The Sustainability Fund’s Normal Grant Cycle is open and available to the entire NC State campus community, including students, staff, organizations and departments. Projects can request up to $155,000 and applications are due by Feb. 8. 

Learn more at go.ncsu.edu/ssf.