Earth Month is here, and Bowling Green State University (BGSU) students might be wondering about the different ways they can help the planet locally.
Those passionate about the environment and volunteer work can look forward to several events on and off-campus this April.
Earth Day began April 22, 1970 as a movement to raise awareness on environmental issues, then snowballed into what is now Earth Month. Millions of participants engage in efforts to educate each other to protect the environment, promoting activities like recycling efforts and cleanups.
Students can register to participate in a tree planting on-campus Thursday, April 16 from 1 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. The location is to be determined and will be shared with participants post registration. There are limited spots available.
Participating students will help plant multiple trees in teams to enhance the campus not only aesthetically but functionally. New trees are planted to improve air quality, cool the campus and reduce stormwater runoff. More trees also means more wildlife, preserving BGSU’s biodiversity and improving students’ quality of life.
BGSU’s annual Eco Fair is taking place Tuesday, April 14 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. outside at the Union Oval. Students are encouraged to bring family members and friends for a fun and free way to learn about and interact with the environment, and hear from local experts. The event is also open to the public, and will continue whether it’s rain or shine.
Activities of the event include live animal encounters with birds, reptiles and rodents, a free plant giveaway, electric vehicle showcase, over 30 interactive exhibits and the chance to win a bike by completing a “passport.” The passport can be completed by visiting seven of the participating groups. Once you complete the passport, you’ll be entered into the competition to win the AHA Sparking Water branded Kent bike.
There are several spots remaining for the Earth Day Lunch and Learn event with Dr. Timothy Pape, assistant professor in the School of Earth, Environment and Society at BGSU. He will be giving a presentation on environmental degradation, accompanied by free pizza on Wednesday, April 22 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. in 118 Hayes Hall. The Lunch and Learn is an opportunity for students to hear from a professional about environmental crises throughout the world. For those interesting in attending, be sure to RSVP, as the event in total is allowing for 40 people maximum.
The final event of the month takes place Saturday, April 25 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Register to join the Outdoor Adventure Club on a free bike ride down the Slippery Elm Trail. It begins at 507 E Reed St, at the BGSU Bike Rental Garage. Participants can bring their own bike or borrow from the club.
Whether participating in all of these activities or just one, students will become more aware of environmental issues and preservation practices to make not just the campus but the world a better place.
Register for the Lunch and Learn:
Earth Day Lunch & Learn with Dr. Timothy Pape | Home | Bowling Green State University
Check out the BGSU Eco Fair: