By Grace Halsey

Earth Day is April 22! To celebrate, take some time to get outside and be kind to Mother Nature. Check out some of these things that you can do for the environment right here on campus.

Go Meatless at Laker Food Co.

If you’ve ever had a vegan chicken nugget from Kleiner, you know they are unbeatable! There are meatless options at almost every Laker Food Co. location on campus, from string bean tofu at Panda Express to veggie burgers at the Blue Connection. Explore the vegan and vegetarian guide from Laker Food Co for more eco-friendly options to sustain your hunger.

Appreciate Nature in the Arboretum and Ravines 

Every Laker knows and loves the Arboretum, but there’s much more to explore! The Grand Ravines trails are located right behind the Grand Valley Apartments on 42nd Ave. Walk along the Grand River and marvel at the sloping valleys for the perfect Earth Day activity. 

Enjoy Sustainable Buildings at GV

Mary Idema Pew Library fun fact: this building is the most sustainable on Grand Valley’s campus. With its under-floor air distribution system, green roofs, and low-flow water fixtures, this library takes up an extremely low amount of energy despite its grand size. Head to the Mary Idema Pew library for an eco-friendly study sesh.

Visit or Volunteer at The SAP

The Sustainable Agricultural Project (SAP) is located just south of campus where you can volunteer to experience sustainable farming practices. There’s a community garden, a farm club, and BEES! Check out the SAPs schedule to find out when you can visit and learn about sustainable agriculture. 

There’s many large-scale ways you can protect the environment, but there’s also many opportunities to start small this Earth Day. Buy a reusable water bottle, recycle and compost often, take The Laker Line, shop local, avoid single-use plastics, and more! Every effort makes a difference.

Celebrate sustainability this Earth Day!