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“We are responsible for 11,700 tons of carbon in the atmosphere every year,” said Brian Hansen, Hamilton’s director of environmental protection, safety, and sustainability. The reduction of this imposing number, which stands between the College and its goal of carbon neutrality, is being approached from a variety of angles, among them, switching energy systems from fossil fuels to greener sources.

With Earth Day approaching on April 22, student organizations are coming together to increase awareness about environmental issues and celebrate our planet. Participating organizations include the Hamilton Sustainability Coordinators, Voices of Color Lecture Series, Hamilton Sunrise Movement, Shenandoah Kirkland Initiative, and La Vanguardia.

Tucked away in the Taylor Science Center’s greenhouse, a new aquaponics system brims with tilapia, lettuce, and other developing life. Built in 2019 by Hamilton’s Aquaponics Club, the system promotes on-campus food sustainability while also providing a space for students and faculty to learn about aquaponics. And with its accessibility, regular maintenance, and potential to expand with student interest, the system does just that.

Hamilton sustainability coordinators have found a way to reintroduce Food2Energy (a.k.a. suite composting) in Babbitt and Milbank residence halls despite the pandemic.

Claire Curran ’20, and Hamilton’s other student sustainability coordinators had put together a week’s worth of campus events to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, but the COVID-19 pandemic swept them aside. Looking for a bit of inspiration, we asked Curran two questions related to Earth Day 2020.

As part of its effort to cut campus greenhouse gas emissions and remove carbon from the atmosphere, Hamilton is developing a land stewardship plan that also creates opportunities for experiential learning and research.

A few years out of Hamilton, Jessica Pedersen ’15 realized she wanted to be part of an enterprise with a mission, which led her to Pacific Community Ventures, a nonprofit that works to build a more sustainable, inclusive economy.

Student Assembly (SA) President Amanda Kim ’21 and Vice President Jiin Jeong ’21 led the program that focused on two topics selected by students: mental health and sustainability.

Hamilton College has installed 20 electric car charging stations at various locations throughout the campus as shown on the map above. They have been available for use by the campus and community free of charge since April 15.