DUBOIS – Students in the Penn State DuBois Environmental Conservation and Outing (E.C.O.) Club hosted an Earth Day celebration in the Student Union, with the hopes of spreading the word about environmental concerns, and green practices.
Club members provided live music and free food, but also encouraged those who attended to browse the various displays set up by students, clubs, and more than a dozen businesses and organizations who displayed their environmentally conscious messages.
“We want to make sure people are aware of the things going on in our environment, and what they can do to help protect and preserve our environment,” said E.C.O. Club President Zack Baer. He noted that even the picnic style lunch they offered was served on washable plates, as opposed to the typical paper or plastic picnic ware.
Businesses explained what their companies do to function efficiently, and the measures they’ve taken to go green. Volunteer organizations showed students how their work directly impacts the environment, and invited students to become involved in those efforts.
“We want people to know what we do, and that’s improve the habitat for future generations,” said Bob Pendro, of Pennsylvania Wildlife Habitat Unlimited. His group does everything from planting trees, to stalking fish, and helping with wildlife surveys and studies. “We also want to get people, young people, involved. The more people we get, the more projects we can get done and the more we can accomplish,” Pendro said.
Many of the young people at the event seemed to recognize the message people like Pendro spread through their work, and realize that environmental stewardship is important, not just on Earth Day, but throughout the year.
“Earth Day is all about caring for your planet and cleaning it up, and remembering to be conscious everyday,” said student Elizabeth Williams.
Steve Harmic, Penn State DuBois