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Tours

1. Sustainability Tour

   Take this tour to learn about Williams' sustainability initiatives.

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   1. Williams Bookstore

      More than just a place to buy books and merch, the Williams Bookstore is a model of sustainable design. With LEED Platinum certification, rooftop solar panels, a fossil fuel-free heating and cooling system, and recycled building materials, it reflects the college’s commitment to energy efficiency and environmental responsibility—all while being an inclusive and welcoming space for the community.

      Transcript:

      Hi! Thanks for clicking on the Williams Campus Sustainability Audio Tour. I plan on introducing you to campus through a different lens—highlighting the built environment, how we interact with that environment, and how Williams tries to lessen our impact on the natural world.

      Before we begin, we respectfully acknowledge that Williams College stands on the ancestral homelands of the Stockbridge-Munsee Community Band of Mohican Indians, who are the Indigenous peoples of the region now called Williamstown. Following tremendous hardship after being forced from their valued homelands, they continued as a sovereign Tribal Nation in Wisconsin, where they reside today. We pay honor and respect to their ancestors past and present as we commit to building a more inclusive and equitable space for all.

      First off, when we use the term ‘sustainability,’ we consider it to mean meeting our present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. In the context of buildings or the built environment, it’s about reducing our environmental impact, conserving resources, upcycling or reusing pre-made materials, and integrating innovative energy solutions. I’m excited to show you around and highlight some of our sustainable features at Williams College!

      Now, let’s get into the first stop: The Williams Bookstore! You might think this is just a spot to grab your textbooks or snag some Williams merch, but it’s so much more than that.

      Let me give you the inside scoop on what makes this place so special. This bookstore is LEED Platinum certified, which is the highest level of certification a building can receive under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system. LEED evaluates buildings based on their sustainability, energy efficiency, water conservation, material selection, and indoor environmental quality. 

      Here’s a fun fact: the entire building is temperature controlled, staying cozy in winter and cool in summer, thanks to a highly efficient variable refrigerant flow system with three dedicated outdoor air energy recovery ventilation units. This setup eliminates the need for natural gas, making the bookstore a fossil fuel-free facility. The building’s energy use intensity is 41% better than the baseline, which significantly reduces energy consumption. 

      And if you take a second to look up, you’ll spot a photovoltaic (solar) array on the roof, which generates about 36% of the building’s annual electricity needs. The solar panels are not just functional but are integrated into the building’s design, forming a dynamic part of its presence on Spring Street. But sustainability doesn’t stop there. The bookstore was designed with a tight building envelope and high-performance insulation to minimize heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. The glazing-to-wall ratio was carefully calculated to optimize natural daylight without excessive heat gain, reducing the need for artificial lighting and cooling. 

      Let’s talk about materials. Over 78% of construction waste from this project was recycled, diverting a significant amount from landfills. Additionally, 10% of the building’s materials were sourced locally, reducing emissions from transportation. Recycled materials were used throughout the bookstore, including structural steel, ceiling tiles, and carpets. 

      This bookstore was designed with inclusivity in mind, making sure all students can access the space and feel welcome here. Wide aisles, accessible entrances, an elevator, and intuitive layout planning ensure that all visitors, regardless of mobility needs, can navigate the space with ease. 

      The bookstore also serves as a venue for faculty book readings, student study sessions, and organized book groups, further enhancing its role as a community space.

      So, the next time you stop by, take a moment to soak it all in. 

       

   2. Sawyer Library

      Discover how Sawyer Library goes beyond books to champion green design. With LEED Gold certification, natural daylighting, reclaimed materials, and inclusive spaces, this historic-meets-modern building is a model of environmental stewardship and academic excellence at Williams College.

      Transcript:

      Welcome to Sawyer Library, the intellectual hub of Williams College. But did you know this isn’t just a place for books and research? Sawyer Library is also a shining example of sustainable architecture and environmental stewardship! Designed by Bohlin Cywinski Jackson, this state-of-the-art facility seamlessly blends modern sustainability with historical preservation, integrating elements of the original Stetson Hall into its structure. 

      As you step inside, take a moment to notice the abundance of natural light. The library’s design maximizes sunlight through strategically placed windows and skylights, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. It’s not only energy-efficient but creates a warm, welcoming environment for students and visitors alike. Over 80% of regularly occupied spaces receive natural daylight, minimizing reliance on artificial lighting while improving the study atmosphere. 

      Let’s talk about materials. The construction process of Sawyer Library prioritized sustainably sourced materials and incorporated recycled elements wherever possible. Reclaimed wood from the old Stetson Hall was repurposed throughout the library, preserving the historical legacy of the space while reducing environmental impact. Additionally, the building was designed with regional materials to minimize transportation emissions and support local economies. Even the furniture reflects a commitment to sustainability, with many pieces made from reclaimed wood.

      Sawyer Library is also LEED Gold certified, which means it meets rigorous environmental performance standards in energy efficiency, water conservation, and material selection. The building's high-performance insulation, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems contribute to its low environmental footprint. 

      Sawyer Library is designed to be inclusive and welcoming to all students. With wheelchair-accessible entrances, elevators, and thoughtfully designed study spaces, this library ensures that knowledge remains accessible to everyone in the Williams community. 

      So, as you dive into your books and projects here, take pride in being part of a community that values the planet as much as the pursuit of knowledge.

       

   3. Horn Hall

      Horn Hall is a standout example of sustainable student living, with LEED Platinum certification, rooftop solar panels, and an impressively low Energy Use Intensity. Thoughtfully designed to maximize natural light and minimize energy use, it combines comfort, community, and cutting-edge green features—making it a model for sustainable residential life at Williams College.

      Transcript:

      Welcome to Horn Hall, one of the crown jewels of Williams College's sustainability initiatives. Let’s talk about design. Horn Hall is a high-performance building designed to minimize energy consumption while maximizing comfort. Its cutting-edge features include energy-efficient lighting, superior insulation, and smart ventilation systems that ensure fresh air while keeping energy use low. In fact, Horn Hall has achieved LEED Platinum certification, reflecting its exceptional commitment to sustainable building practices.

      Horn Hall has solar panels mounted on its roof, seamlessly integrating into Williams College’s broader solar initiatives to harness renewable energy. These panels significantly reduce the building’s energy consumption, contributing to an impressive site Energy Use Intensity (EUI) of 29, compared to the U.S. college building average of 180. This energy efficiency, combined with other sustainable features, helps lower Horn Hall’s carbon footprint and serves as a model for integrating renewable energy into everyday living spaces.

      Walking through Horn Hall, you might also notice how natural light floods the interiors. It’s not just beautiful; it’s intentional! The design reduces the need for artificial lighting, saving energy and making the space a delight to live and work in. Additionally, the building offers suites, pod lounges with kitchenettes, a spacious kitchen and dining area, a multi-purpose meeting and collaborative learning room, and a comfortable central living room, all designed to foster community and collaboration among residents.

      Outside, the backyard offers a great spot to relax on a warm fall or spring day, further enhancing the living experience at Horn Hall. Its strategic location near the Student Health Services Center and Upperclass Residence Halls—including Chadbourne, Agard, Brooks, and Spencer—makes it a convenient and central housing option for students.

      
      
      

   4. Paresky Center

      At the heart of campus dining, Paresky Center showcases Williams College’s commitment to sustainable food systems. From sourcing local, ethically produced ingredients to reducing food waste and promoting plant-forward meals, Whitmans Dining Hall leads efforts to shrink the college’s food-related carbon footprint. With initiatives like the Coolfood Pledge and Meatless Mondays, Williams blends environmental responsibility with delicious, thoughtful dining.

      Transcript:

      Now, as we head toward Paresky Center, home to one of our main dining halls, Whitmans, let's talk about how Williams College is leading sustainability efforts in food sourcing and dining operations. Williams College Dining Services follows a multi-faceted approach to food sustainability, ensuring that meals served on campus align with ethical, environmental, and health-conscious principles. The college prioritizes food sustainability by sourcing locally from farms and food producers within a 250-mile radius to reduce transportation emissions and support regional agriculture. It also purchases food with ecological certifications such as USDA Organic, Fair Trade, Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) Certified Sustainable Seafood, and Rainforest Alliance Certified products. Furthermore, Williams Dining is committed to supporting socially responsible food producers, ensuring that ethical labor practices are followed in food production.

      Reducing food waste is another major focus, with composting programs, waste tracking systems, and portion control initiatives in place to minimize excess. Currently, 10% of the food purchased by Williams College meets at least one of these sustainability criteria, but the college is working to increase this percentage as part of its long-term sustainability initiatives. Additionally, Williams College has joined the Coolfood Pledge, a global initiative that aims to reduce food-related greenhouse gas emissions by 38% per plate by 2030. This goal is being met through strategic menu planning, offering more plant-forward meals, and reducing the carbon footprint associated with meat-heavy diets.

      To further these efforts, the dining halls have introduced initiatives such as Meatless Mondays, where plant-based meals are promoted to lower the environmental impact of food choices. Transparent food labeling helps students make informed choices about the carbon footprint of their meals, while partnerships with local farms and suppliers ensure seasonal and sustainable ingredients are prioritized. Beyond just dining, Williams College also emphasizes food justice, ensuring that sustainable food systems benefit not just the environment but also local communities, farmworkers, and food producers.

       

   5. Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

      Williams College supports the shift to clean transportation with 10 Level 2 ChargePoint EV charging stations across campus. By making electric vehicle charging accessible and affordable, these stations help reduce transportation emissions and align with the college’s broader goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

      Transcript:

      Now, we will make a quick stop at the electric vehicle (EV) charging station. As part of its commitment to sustainability, Williams College has installed 10 Level 2, dual-port ChargePoint EV charging stations across campus, helping reduce reliance on fossil fuels and support a transition to cleaner transportation. These stations are strategically placed in key locations, including the '62 Center Parking Garage and the Hollander Hall parking lot, making it convenient for faculty, staff, and students to charge their electric vehicles. To access these stations, users need a ChargePoint account linked to a valid credit card. The charging cost is $0.18 per kilowatt-hour from 8 AM to 8 PM and $0.14 per kilowatt-hour from 8 PM to 8 AM, aligning with off-peak electricity usage to encourage energy efficiency. Additionally, to promote station turnover and prevent unnecessary occupation, a $3.00 per hour overstay fee applies once a vehicle is fully charged, after a 45-minute grace period—though this fee is waived overnight for those who need extended charging.

      EV adoption plays a crucial role in reducing campus transportation emissions, and these charging stations support faculty, staff, and students who are making the switch to electric vehicles. The installation of these stations aligns with Williams College’s broader sustainability goals, including its commitment to carbon neutrality by 2050 and its continuous efforts to minimize greenhouse gas emissions across all sectors of campus life.

       

   6. Davis Center

      Renovated in 2024, the Davis Center is a net-zero, fossil-fuel-free space that champions both environmental and social sustainability. From zero-waste event planning to low-carbon construction and the pursuit of Living Building Challenge Petal Certification, the Center models how inclusive, climate-conscious design can drive community impact and inspire meaningful change.

      Transcript:

      Welcome to the Davis Center—a space at Williams College that seamlessly blends sustainability, inclusion, and education into its very foundation. At its core, the Davis Center fosters collaboration, engaging students, staff, and faculty in sustainability initiatives that don’t just stay within these walls but ripple outward into the community.

      The renovation and expansion of the Davis Center in 2024 have transformed it into a vibrant hub for programs and spaces that uplift historically underrepresented communities while engaging with complex issues of identity, history, and culture.

      First, let’s talk about waste management. The Davis Center takes recycling and composting to the next level. From accessible compost collection sites to clear recycling programs, this building ensures every visitor becomes part of the sustainability journey. Fun fact: the Center even works to make zero-waste events possible on campus, setting the standard for eco-conscious event planning.

      But the sustainability story doesn’t stop at waste. The Davis Center achieves net-zero operational and embodied carbon through a range of innovative strategies. It utilizes fossil-fuel-free systems, implements deep energy retrofitting, and adapts existing structures. The low-carbon wood construction and careful selection of Red List-free materials—a comprehensive list of chemicals avoided in the building—further enhance its ecological footprint. The building actively pursues Living Building Challenge Petal Certification while incorporating carbon offsets to further reduce its environmental impact, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability.

      The Living Building Challenge is a rigorous performance standard that requires buildings to operate as cleanly, beautifully, and efficiently as nature itself. It encompasses several "petals," or performance areas, including Place, Water, Energy, Health & Happiness, Materials, Equity, and Beauty.

      A notable design feature is the building's charred-wood cladding, which not only provides durability and low maintenance but also symbolizes resilience and strength. The folded roofline is inspired by the surrounding Berkshire Mountains, creating a harmonious connection between the building and its natural environment.

      And let’s not forget its role as a gathering spot. The Davis Center hosts everything from workshops and panels to community events—all with a sustainability twist. For example, their events often incorporate themes of climate justice, connecting global issues with local action.

      So, whether you’re here for a workshop, a cultural event, or just to hang out, the Davis Center invites you to be part of something bigger—a movement that’s shaping the future, one action at a time.

       

   7. Hopkins Memorial Forest

      Spanning 2,600 acres across three states, Hopkins Memorial Forest is a living laboratory and outdoor classroom managed by the Zilkha Center. With 12 miles of scenic trails, diverse ecosystems, and cutting-edge research on climate and sustainability, it offers students, faculty, and the community a unique space for learning, exploration, and connection with the natural world.

      Transcript:

      Now, we’re stepping off the beaten path, literally, into the Hopkins Memorial Forest, a 2,600-acre sanctuary spanning Massachusetts, New York, and Vermont. Managed by Williams College's Zilkha Center for the Environment, this forest serves as a living laboratory where students, staff, and faculty researchers converge to explore topics ranging from forest ecosystems to climate change. Whether you're analyzing soil composition or simply enjoying the tranquility of the trails, the forest offers a wealth of opportunities for both study and recreation.

      Research is a cornerstone of the forest's mission. Ongoing projects include studies on nitrogen fertilization effects on carbon cycling, ecosystem-level isotope tracing, and long-term forest vegetation monitoring. These initiatives not only advance scientific understanding but also inform sustainable land management practices.

      The forest's extensive trail system, totaling about 12 miles, caters to a variety of outdoor enthusiasts. Trails like the Lower Loop and Upper Loop offer routes for hiking, jogging, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing..

      Educational outreach is integral to the forest's role. It supports interdisciplinary teaching and research, providing a foundation for undergraduate education at Williams College and other institutions. The forest also offers field trip programming for local schools and the public, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural environment.

      The forest's landscape is a testament to its ecological diversity. As you traverse its trails, you'll encounter a variety of forest types, from mixed hardwoods to stands of hemlock and pine. This diversity supports a rich array of wildlife, making it a prime location for bird watching and nature study.

       

   8. Community Garden

      Tucked behind Poker Flats, the Community Garden is a vibrant space where students, faculty, staff, and locals unite to practice sustainable agriculture. With individual plots, shared tools, and hands-on learning, the garden fosters eco-friendly practices, community connection, and a deeper understanding of local food systems—all rooted in collaboration and care for the environment.

      Transcript:

      Nestled behind Poker Flats, the Williams College Community Garden is where students, faculty, staff, and local community members come together to cultivate a shared space for sustainable agriculture. Here, participants grow a variety of fresh vegetables, herbs, and vibrant flowers, all while learning the principles of eco-friendly gardening.

      Established in 2019, the garden was created in response to widespread interest from the Williams community.

      It offers individual plots, allowing gardeners to plant and manage their own sections within the communal area. The garden is self-governing, with a steering committee elected by its members to oversee operations and ensure collaborative decision-making.

      But this isn’t just about growing food. The garden serves as a living classroom, teaching the importance of composting, soil health, and local food systems. It provides a hands-on opportunity to engage with sustainable practices, from understanding crop rotation to implementing water conservation techniques. Gardeners are encouraged to participate in seed swaps and workshops, enhancing their knowledge and fostering a culture of shared learning.

      And let’s not forget the sense of community. The garden isn’t just about plants—it’s about people coming together. Regular events, such as gardening workshops and social gatherings, are held to encourage interaction among participants. The shared tool shed and communal berry patch further promote collaboration and resource sharing.

      Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a novice looking to learn, the Williams College Community Garden offers a space to connect with nature and each other, fostering a community that values sustainability and collective growth.

      As we come to the end of the sustainability tour, I hope you’ve seen that sustainability at Williams extends far beyond energy-efficient buildings. It’s woven into every aspect of campus life—from the food we grow to the spaces we share. Each initiative reflects a deep commitment to environmental responsibility, innovation, and community engagement. Thank you for joining this tour, and I hope you leave inspired by the many ways Williams is working toward a more sustainable future!

       

   9. Hopper Science Center

      Hopper Science Center is a cutting-edge, LEED Platinum-certified facility that blends scientific exploration with environmental responsibility. From its solar panels and water-saving systems to bird-friendly design and daylight-filled spaces, Hopper sets a new standard for sustainable science buildings—proving that innovation and sustainability go hand in hand.

      Transcript:

      Hopper Science Center is where science meets sustainability. Did you know Hopper is a high-performance building? It’s been crafted to minimize energy use without compromising on comfort. The building features a robust, energy-conserving envelope utilizing terracotta, a naturally maintenance-free material, and bird-friendly glazing to protect local wildlife.

      Now, here’s something that’ll make you look up—literally. Hopper is powered in part by renewable energy. A photovoltaic solar array harnesses the sun’s power, contributing to the building's energy needs.

      Additionally, the project employs a campus-wide approach to water efficiency by using excess air handling unit condensate and reverse osmosis reject water, combined with harvested roof rainwater, to support the Morley Science Center chillers, saving over 860,000 gallons of potable water per year.

      The building is flooded with natural light, designed to inspire creativity while reducing the need for artificial lighting. Strategically placed windows and skylights maximize daylight, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for both study and collaboration.

      Hopper Science Center has achieved LEED Platinum certification, reflecting its exceptional commitment to environmental stewardship.

      Next time you walk by, take a moment to appreciate how Hopper Science Center is shaping a greener future—one experiment, one solar panel, one breakthrough at a time.

       

   10. Williams College Museum of Art

       The new Williams College Museum of Art (WCMA) is redefining what a museum can be—blending artistic innovation with cutting-edge sustainability. Designed to achieve Living Building Challenge CORE Certification, WCMA uses local materials, smart climate systems, and regenerative design to minimize environmental impact while inspiring learning and reflection on art, nature, and climate responsibility. 

       Transcript:

       Welcome to the Williams College Museum of Art (WCMA), a space where creativity, education, and sustainability come together. This new museum aims to set a sustainability standard for cultural institutions through achieving Living Building Challenge (LBC) CORE Certification, one of the most rigorous sustainability benchmarks in the world. 

       Situated at the intersection of Routes 2 and 7, the new WCMA building is designed with a regenerative mindset—meaning it gives back to the environment rather than merely reducing harm. From the initial site preparation, which carefully removed and repurposed non-invasive trees and shrubs, to the planned use of local and sustainable building materials, every step is being taken to ensure that this project aligns with Williams College’s broader sustainability goals.

       The structure will maximize daylight, reducing the need for artificial lighting. Smart climate control systems will further minimize energy consumption, and the museum’s roof and façade will incorporate passive design elements to optimize thermal efficiency. By integrating green infrastructure and minimizing reliance on nonrenewable energy sources, WCMA will serve as a model for sustainable museum design.

       The museum has always been a place of learning—but with this new space, WCMA will also be a center for sustainability education. The building will feature interactive exhibitions on sustainable architecture, renewable energy, and ecological conservation. The museum’s outdoor areas will offer spaces for reflection and gathering, connecting visitors with nature and encouraging dialogue about environmental responsibility.

       Williams College is dedicated to reducing its carbon footprint, and WCMA’s new home will actively support the college’s goal of reaching carbon neutrality. By setting a precedent for low-impact construction and energy-efficient design, this project will demonstrate how the arts and sustainability can work hand in hand to create a better future.