Every year, UNC Charlotte celebrates Earth Month throughout April, offering a series of engaging events aimed at promoting environmental awareness and sustainability. This year, the Office of Sustainability, in collaboration with various environmentally focused organizations, is excited to invite participation from Niner Nation as they connect with the natural world and partake in varied activities designed to foster sustainability among students and the wider community.
Mike Lizotte, the University sustainability officer, emphasized the importance of these events, stating, “Sustainability is all about being conscious about your actions and I think that Earth Day is a way to focus on that without being preachy. It aims to bring people together and teach them about ways to be better.” The initiative not only aims to raise awareness on pressing environmental issues but shares actionable insights on how individuals can make a difference in their everyday lives.
Lydia Knier, president of the Earth Club, stressed the importance of early engagement with environmental stewardship: “I think it’s important for us to get involved and learn about environmental stewardship now, so we can incorporate it in our life choices as we make big decisions and go into future careers.” Through participatory activities, club members and students alike will learn about significant environmental concerns and the importance of lifelong eco-conscious behaviors.
Event attendees at UNC Charlotte can look forward to a plethora of activities throughout the month. Kicking off the festivities, the Earth Month Film Series will feature films intended to inspire. Scheduled on Thursday, April 10, 2025, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Fretwell Building, the feature is “Freedom Hill,” followed by another screening of “A Long Start to the Journey” on Monday, April 14, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the Student Union Theater.
The Earth Month Tour Series will also provide unique educational experiences. The series begins with a recycling and waste management tour taking place on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, from noon to 1 p.m. at the Facilities Management/Police and Public Safety Building. Subsequent tours include land and water resources on April 8, a green building tour on April 15, and a stroll through the UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens on April 22, all slated for noon to 1 p.m.
In addition to the tours, various scheduled events will take over campus during the month of April. Multiple events are set for Thursday, April 3, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Belk Plaza and noon to 5 p.m. at The Dubois Center at UNC Charlotte Center City. Other key happenings include Wednesday, April 9, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the main campus and a food drive on Thursday, April 10, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Winningham Building, Room 107.
Furthermore, Saturday, April 12, 2025, marks a significant day with a series of events hosted from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lot 5 (9303 Martin Village Rd., Charlotte, N.C. 28262). These activities aim to engage participants while raising awareness about sustainability and conservation through fun and learning.
As Earth Month unfolds, residents of Charlotte and the broader community are invited to join in the festivities. The Charlotte Harvest Exchange Market will occur on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, and again on April 22, 2025, from 10 a.m. to noon at Belk Plaza.
In a concerted effort to engage the audience, the “Party for the Planet” will bring people together on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Belk Plaza. This event promises not only to be a fun gathering but also a learning opportunity about sustainable practices.
Earth Month is not just focused on campus but extends to various off-campus celebrations. Throughout the weekend of April 11 to April 13, 2025, specific events will be hosted at 2573 Lake Haigler Dr., Fort Mill, S.C. 29715, plus a notable art event on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Independent Picture House.
As UNC Charlotte gears up for this exciting month-long celebration, it aims to instill values of sustainability in both students and the surrounding community. With a diverse itinerary of events and educational opportunities, the initiative will undoubtedly foster a greater connection to our natural environment while promoting engaged citizenship for a sustainable future.
Meanwhile, in Kalamazoo County, Michigan, the W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary is also preparing to celebrate Earth Day on Saturday, April 19, 2025. They will open their doors with free admission, hoping to attract a wide range of visitors to explore the sanctuary.
In partnership with Gull Lake and Richland Elementary Schools, the sanctuary will host an invigorating art show titled “Wings of Conservation.” This event will showcase a collaborative mural and sculptures reflecting the beauty of birds, expertly created from recycled materials by students, emphasizing the importance of conservation.
The art will be on display from April 16 to April 20, 2025, during which guests can take in the stunning installations and wander through the sanctuary’s trails, observing various waterfowl, including the majestic Trumpeter Swans. Visitors will learn about essential topics like prairie restoration while appreciating the natural beauty surrounding them.
With the sanctuary open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Earth Day, families and community members are invited to participate in this free event that celebrates the profound connection between education and conservation, providing a peaceful yet informative day outdoors.
These initiatives underscore the growing importance of environmental education and community involvement, with institutions like UNC Charlotte and the W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary leading the way in promoting sustainable practices, enhancing public awareness, and providing enjoyable, educational events for all.
