AMHERST — Well known as a progressive bastion, Hampshire College has been at the forefront of sustainability efforts long before they gained widespread acceptance.

Still, the school’s latest foray into eco-friendly practices marks a major leap forward.

The private college’s first new building in 20 years is a model of sustainability, featuring composting toilets, rooftop solar panels to power the building, and a water supply that draws on rainwater stored in underground cisterns. The building, slated to open in April, will use zero net energy, produce its own water supply, and manage its wastewater.

Read the full article at the Boston Globe