UWM Earth Day events focus on minimizing environmental impact

In recognition of Earth Day April 22, UWM will host a series of events to help members of the campus community explore ways to they can reduce their impact on the environment.

The 11-day effort kicks off at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 13, with a talk by Colin Beavan, author of “No Impact Man,” in the Union Ballroom.

Colin Beavan
Colin Beavan

For an entire year, Beavan and his family lived in New York City with zero net impact on the environment. They eliminated all trash and electricity usage, used only self-propelled transportation, reducing water usage, bought only secondhand products and volunteered around their community.

The university’s events are inspired by Beavan’s No Impact Project, which encourages people to “test whether the modern conveniences they take for granted are actually making them happier or just eating away their time and money.”

Following Beavan’s talk, each day will challenge participants to reduce their carbon footprints by not buying new things, eating locally sourced food, using only person-powered or public transportation or volunteering.

UWM will also host events to engage the campus, such as a “build your own terrarium” workshop, a bike-based scavenger hunt and a water activism field trip.

Visit the UWM No Impact Project’s Facebook page for a complete list of challenges and events. The events are presented by the UWM Office of Sustainability, the Student Association and Student Involvement.

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