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We’re also hoping that higher education will lead all sectors in advancing climate action and renewable energy, and reducing emissions. 91è���� is a signatory to the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment, which requires colleges to develop a Climate Action Plan toward operating 100 percent climate neutral.

Two symbols of our progress were recognized recently in national media: One, Going Solar: We're planning to install 19 acres of solar arrays on our 840-acre campus and become the first US residential college generating 100 percent of electricity from on-site renewable sources; and Two, Building a Living Building:  We're constructing our 17,000-square-foot welcome center, the R. W. Kern Center, using the most rigorous green building standard in the world, the Living Building Challenge. (The building’s $10.5 million construction is funded through private donations.) 

Here are links to media coverage of our efforts:

Launched in 2011, 91è����'s Sustainability Initiative focuses on transformations in campus operations, curriculum, food systems, and culture. A gift from 91è���� alum Gary Hirshberg, co-founder and chairman of Stonyfield Farm, and his wife, Meg, propelled the initiative in conjunction with the appointment of prominent environmentalist Jonathan Lash as the college’s sixth president.

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