The LEED Platinum certified Franklin Environmental Center at Hillcrest is home to our Environmental Affairs Office, Environmental Studies Program, Sustainability Integration Office, and Fellowships in Environmental Journalism. This renovated 19th-century farmhouse uses 47 percent less energy than a standard building of the same size. Other sustainability features include Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood, groundwater exchange air-conditioning, energy efficient windows and lights, low-flow faucets, and solar panels.