Sustainability
Washington College understands its identity as fundamentally tied to its location in an environmentally critical area and is committed to environmental research, teaching, sustainability, and regeneration in all activities and operations as a campus.
But the College also recognizes that environmental sustainability does not exist in a vacuum and, in fact, cannot exist without a commitment to sustainable communities. When Washington undertakes sustainability initiatives, it is always with one eye on creating and supporting the social supports that make it possible to maintain those efforts.
Students are a vital part of this work in many ways, from student government to environmentally focused internships. The College boasts a curriculum and an array of student learning experiences that richly integrate the environment and sustainability. Numerous departments and programs engage with the environment and sustainability in their curriculums, and many faculty members partner with the Center for Environment and Society as part of their regular teaching or research.
A campus garden is the hub of a beekeeping program, composting operation, and permaculture and food initiative internships that examine the connection between human and environmental health. Washington College is also certified as a Bee, Bird, and Tree Friendly Campus.
The College has also seen sustainability improvements important to the student experience: a functional recycling program, dozens of water bottle filling stations, and green spaces throughout campus.
Sustainability in Practice
Campus Garden
With more than a dozen fruit trees, an apiary for beekeeping, chicken council, herb spiral, an earthen oven, living roof, pond, and composting program, the Campus Garden is a flourishing sanctuary for wildlife and hands-on learning.
Sustainability Certifications
Washington College is certified as a bee-, bird-, and tree-friendly campus. Semans-Griswold Environmental Hall has been certified in the Living Building Challenge, a sustainable development model that is a step above LEED certification.
Electric Vehicles & Green Transportation
With bike shares, a trail system, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure, Washington College and Chestertown provide multiple ways for your transportation to be carbon-neutral.