Each year, citizens from hundreds of countries around the world take action in recognition of Earth Day, staging community clean-ups, tree plantings, lobbying elected officials, and more—all on behalf of the earth that sustains us.

A new effort to teach students about environmental responsibility and eco-friendly practices will be offered at Indiana University-Purdue University Columbus (IUPUC) this year when the campus hosts a “Green Fair” in celebration of the international Earth Day movement, which began in 1970.

Students, faculty, staff, and the general public are invited to attend the university’s first-ever Green Fair, which will be held from noon to 3 p.m. in the Columbus Learning Center, said Dr. Sandra Miles, director of IUPUC’s Office of Student Affairs.

“As an educational institution, it is important for us to help our students and future leaders, as well as the general public, have a better understanding about what we can do to implement green practices. As the global population grows and finite natural resources become more scarce, it is increasingly important that efficient, renewable energy practices become part of our collective consciousness. Even small changes on a local level have the potential to make a big impact,” Miles said.

Topics during the event will include environmental clean-up and monitoring, recycling, energy efficiency, alternative energy, public transit, sustainable agriculture and farming, and organic food options.

Miles noted the university is partnering with Columbus-based Connected Community Partnership (ccpcolumbus.com) for an electronics recycling drive during IUPUC’s Green Fair.

“We encourage members of the public to bring old computers, televisions, printers, small household batteries (no car or truck batteries, please), cell phones, and other electronic devices to the Green Fair event for recycling. These items can be dropped-off between noon and 3 p.m. near IUPUC’s main entrance, just off Central Avenue,” Miles said.

Local businesses, civic groups, and organizations with a focus on environmental issues can get involved as participating organizations or event sponsors. Contact Pamela Weiss at 812.314.8532 or pjweiss@iupuc.edu to register or for more information.