Wind mills in the distance on a farm landscape

Campus Sustainability

Sustainability in Action

Embracing a Sustainable Future

Sustainability is central to our mission at Whitman. Social equity, environmental integrity and economic security are fundamental components of a sustainable future, and we strive to integrate these three principles into all aspects of the college’s policies, programs and practices.

An electric vehicle at a charging station
Fall 2025 Update

Whitman Wheels

Whitman College has partnered with Sway Mobility to provide a carsharing program on campus—Whitman Wheels—available to all current Whitman students, faculty and staff using their Whitman email address. Two electric cars (Chevrolet Bolts) are stationed in the Harper Joy Theatre parking lot in dedicated parking spaces with their own charging stations. Vehicles are returned here after each use. Pricing ($10/hour) includes everything from electricity to insurance and 25 miles of driving per hour. Whitman Wheels is accessed via the Sway Mobility app.

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Memorial Building amongst the Spring blooms
Spring 2020

Whitman Sustainability Update

The Spring 2020 Whitman Sustainability Update highlights significant strides in sustainability, including improvements in STARS and LEED ratings, reductions in energy consumption, and advancements in transportation. The report showcases the institution's commitment to sustainable practices and highlights the positive impact of these efforts.

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Hall of Science atrium
Insights from STARS Reporting

Sustainability Assessment and Progress

The Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS) is a comprehensive tool used to measure and promote sustainability practices in higher education. This report examines Whitman College's latest STARS report and compares it to the reports of nine peer institutions, providing an assessment of our progress and offering practical suggestions for enhancing sustainability efforts. The report showcases the importance of sustainable practices in higher education and highlights opportunities for Whitman to continue leading the way in sustainability.

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Solar Panel Installation
Climate Action Plan

Path to Carbon Neutrality by 2050

In 2016, Whitman College adopted our Climate Action Plan which establishes our goal to reduce and offset greenhouse gas emissions to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and outlines the path needed to get there. We are currently developing an updated Climate Action Plan.

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Associations and Memberships