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The 135-acre Mills College campus stands testament to the preservation of the natural environment with a strong focus on the future. This long-term vision is central to a sustainable future where we maintain and improve the campus ecosystem, build sustainability into the curriculum, encourage inquiry and environmental justice, make decisions based on proven research, and build a strong connection to the larger community and world around us.
In 2008, the College received a 92 out of a possible 99 green rating from the Princeton Review for environmental policies and practices.
Construction
Mills maintains a commitment to sustainable practices in new construction, as well as in renovation whenever possible. Mills' new Natural Sciences Building received a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum rating in 2007. It features photovoltaic (or PV) panels on the roof, a rainwater collection system, energy efficient mechanical equipment, radiant heated floors, recycled materials in construction, and all native drought tolerant plant species in three courtyards. The Music Building renovation utilizes recycled materials for concert hall seating, reducing costs and restoring the characteristic, carved wooden chair arms. The new Graduate School of Business is currently being planned to receive a gold LEED rating.
Endowed Maintenance Funding
Mills endows 10 percent of the construction costs on every large renovation or new construction project for future building maintenance. This ensures that the building will receive proper maintenance and function efficiently well into the future.
Landscape Heritage Plan
Mills is committed to preserving its unique cultural heritage and guiding future sustainable planning and development with the creation of the Landscape Heritage Master Plan, published in January 2008 and funded by the Getty Foundation.
Sustainable Vegetation Management
Mills employs environmentally friendly fire management techniques throughout campus, selectively removing undergrowth to reduce fire danger and encourage the growth of native habitat. Lawns are maintained, leaving clippings in place to promote fertilization and reduce waste. No new traditional lawns will be developed, opting for more native alternatives to landscaping.
Creek Restoration
Mills is restoring Leona Creek to control damaging water flows that threaten bridge stability and creek beds. Mills hosts Creek to Bay Day in September to bring together Oakland and Mills communities and foster environmental awareness.
Lake Restoration
Mills is committed to restoring Lake Aliso, the picturesque and culturally significant body of water that provides summer irrigation to Mills' planted acres. Funding is being sought for planning and restoration work.
Mills Recycles
In October 2007, Mills received the Alameda County Waste Management Award for:
- Diverting over 60 percent of its waste away from landfills.
- Composting in the food service and residence halls
- Recycling building materials, paper, cans, and bottles
- Using biodegradable utensils and dishware made from corn and potatoes
- Purchasing and using recycled materials when possible
American College and University
Presidents Climate Commitment
At least two commitments are required for participation in the Presidents Climate Commitment. Mills has adopted three:
Mills participates in RecycleMania and uses recycling, composting, and reuse measures to reduce waste. In 2008, Mills received the 1st place award for composting.
Mills builds to LEED standards of silver or above on new construction:
Mills encourages the use and provides access to public and shared transportation:
- The Mills shuttle runs between UC Berkeley, BART, and Mills College with increased runs during peak times to meet growing demand for shared transportation.
- Mills provides a web-based car pool system.
- Public transportation is located at Richards Gate.
Member, Association for the Advancement
of Sustainability in Higher Education
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