PELLA — Central College is hosting an Eco Fair Saturday, April 9, to promote sustainable living initiatives and to educate the community about eco-friendly products and services. Running from 9 a.m. – noon in Graham Conference Center on Central’s campus, the fair includes display booths and information tables, educational seminars, tours of Central’s LEED-rated buildings, an educational room for children featuring hands-on activities and an elementary school poster drawing contest.
The fair is partnering with 16 groups from Pella and surrounding areas, including Pella Corporation, 1000 Friends of Iowa, Center on Sustainable Communities, U.S. Corps of Engineers Lake Red Rock, Work of Our Hands, Rain Barrels of Iowa and more.
Seminar topics will include how to start an organic garden 9:15–9:45 a.m., how to can your own produce 10-10:30 a.m., how to cook with your produce 10:45-11:15 a.m. and easy ways to “green” your life 11:30 a.m. – noon.
Tours of Vermeer Science Center and Roe Center will last an hour and with the first at 9:50 a.m. and a second tour at 11 a.m.
The educational children’s room will have activities, including games and crafts. Kids will learn about reptiles and amphibians and will have the opportunity to play with live wildlife ambassadors provided by Pella Wildlife Company. Students participating in the poster contest will receive a reusable water bottle and have their name entered in a drawing to win a free bike from Iowa Bike and Fitness.
“I really want to create a fun and educational atmosphere for individuals of all ages,” said Michelle Stewart, a sophomore communication studies major from Waverly, Iowa, who is spearheading the fair. “I want people to understand that being sustainable is not just about owning a hybrid car and learn about the numerous environmentally-conscious initiatives and opportunities happening in their community.”
Stewart conceived the idea of the Eco Fair this summer when she attended the Clinton Global Initiative Conference in Miami, Fla. Students had to propose a commitment to action plan to implement on their college campuses to be accepted into the program.
Ultimately, Stewart wants to show people how to make a difference. “Whether it is starting an organic garden, teaching children to recycle or shopping locally, each of these actions will serve to create a healthier world.”
