Earth Week 2016 at the University of Arkansas, held from April 18th to April 22nd, was successful in educating students on issues of sustainability. There were a number events held during the week that were put on by collaboration between the Office for Sustainability, Associated Student Government, University Programs, and SOOIE, as well as events hosted by other campus departments.
At the Earth Week Kickoff event on Monday, ASG handed out watermelon and Earth Week promotional flyers on the Union Mall. On Tuesday, ASG hosted a RED Talk focused on issues of sustainability in the Fayetteville area. The talk featured speakers from Tri Cycle Farms, the Volunteer Action Center, and Phigenics.
Wednesday there was a Dickson Street bike trail cleanup, and the Sustainability Capstone projects were put on display in the Union. On Thursday, there was a tour of Vol Walker Hall that highlighted the features of the building that contributed to its LEED Silver certification. On Thursday night, there was a reception in the Union to celebrate and present the capstone projects.
Solar oven cooking delicious s’mores at the Earth Day Fair.
On Earth Day, there was a large fair in the Union mall that featured 23 different sustainability related organizations. The weather was perfect to celebrate the Earth’s beauty, and the shining sun powered solar ovens that made delicious s’mores. The celebration lasted into the late night with the farewell Friday Night Live event sporting a green theme.
While the Earth Day event was a huge success, it is important to celebrate the Earth and engage in sustainable practices everyday of the year. Click here to see 5 ways you can help.