You are here

The College demonstrates its commitment to sustainability throughout its facilities. Ahmanson Hall was retrofitted from a former IBM research facility, while the North Building was retrofitted from a former bank. The Galef Fine Arts Building was designed according to green principles using low-energy glass and HVAC systems. To reduce waste and conserve energy, Ahmanson Hall employs a highly efficient cooling tower heat exchanger system; computer-controlled "smart" variable speed heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC), thermostats, and elevators; and new water bottle filling stations. Across campus grey-water is used for the sprinklers, nonemergency lighting is sensor-controlled, hand dryers reduce paper waste, energy-efficient ceramic kilns are fired during low peak hours, and lighting with ballast and fluorescent tubes all save energy and resources. In addition, the Café offers eco-friendly packaging and discounts for bringing your own cups, while College publications use Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) recycled paper and printing methods.

One of the most important ways that students can contribute to Otis’ sustainability initiatives is by separating trash and recyclables into the proper receptacles on campus, taking care not to mix the different types. Excess materials and supplies can be donated to the campus Resource Exchange (located behind the ground floor wood/metal shop in the parking garage). Students can also trade for needed materials and supplies that may be in stock throughout the year, and on our Annual UpCycle Day, held on the second Wednesday each fall. Students are also encouraged to carpool, bike or take public transportation to and from campus.

For more information about Otis’ sustainability initiatives, see www.otis.edu/sustainability-initiative.

Find out how you can minor in Sustainability.