ss_blog_claim=3d0289db0805ca6c5eedbb72a4363f3e ss_blog_claim=3d0289db0805ca6c5eedbb72a4363f3e Random Thoughts: Lewis Center for Environmental Studies

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Oberlin College likes to practice what it preaches. To reflect what students learn inside, the construction of the school's environmental studies building has focused on reducing environmental impact. Located in Oberlin, Ohio, the building, funded by private donations, implements several green building techniques to keep this large structure energy-efficient and yet comfortable. For example, to minimize water consumption, the Lewis Center employs a water treatment system it named "The Living Machine." As the system takes in wastewater, the machine treats and purifies the water so that it can be reused for toilets.

The students and faculty also strive to use surrounding land in the most environmentally conscientious ways as well. Part of their mission included creating a nearby wetland to help reverse the effect of human elimination on wetlands in Ohio. Wetlands are swampy areas that organizations like the EPA seek to protect because they provide habitats for wildlife and can even improve water quality by grabbing the nasty ingredients out of runoff before it becomes drinking water. Also, fruit orchards on the Lewis Center land provide produce.