Sustainability

Amherst College is deeply committed to sustainability. We strive to set an example of responsible stewardship by establishing sound policies and practices that promote resource conservation and minimize our environmental impact.

Sustainability is a core principle that guides all of Amherst College’s operations—from the food served to the vehicles driven. While our institution has made great strides, we recognize we can and should do better. In October 2014, we established the Office of Environmental Sustainability to further support our efforts to improve our operational sustainability and engage students on sustainability issues both inside and outside the classroom.

A photo of Johnson Chapel with the sun shining through trees

Achieving Neutrality by 2030

Read Amherst’s Climate Action Plan to learn how we aim to achieve climate neutrality by 2030 through transformative modernization of our energy system from fossil fuels to renewable electricity.

Climate Action Plan Trustee Statement

Our Commitment to Sustainability

A two-story brick building under a bright blue sky with clouds

Visit Us

The Office of Environmental Sustainability is located in the Service Building, which is located on East Drive next to the Powerhouse and Science Center. (Director of OES is Weston Dripps)

Green Office Program

Amherst College is dedicated to conserving resources and "greening" our campus operations. The Green Office Program aims to help offices gauge how sustainable their spaces currently are, educate them on ways they can keep improving and reward them for their efforts!

Learn more about our Green Office Program.

Student Opportunities

The Office of Environmental Sustainability is a small office with big goals! We seek to provide opportunities for students to learn about, engage with, and test solutions to the complexities that come with providing safe and just space for humanity within the boundaries of a healthy environment.

Find our what you can do!

Building and Operations

Amherst College has a long-standing commitment to energy conservation. From encorporating energy conservation strategies in the operation, renovation and construction of its facilities to promoting energy-saving practices across campus, the College has become increasingly aware that it has a moral obligation to embrace the concept of sustainability and environmental stewardship.

See what we’re doing around campus.

An aerial photo of the war memoiral and Mount Holyoke range

Our Green Amherst Blog

We hire a number of student fellows to help assist the college with its sustainability efforts and initiatives. Our blog introduces these fellows and provides an ongoing account of their work from helping realize our work across campus.

Visit the Blog