Breezy Conditions No Deterrent for UAMS Earth Day Celebration
| April 25, 2018 | Double-digit winds did not hamper UAMS’s celebration of Earth Day on April 19, although it may have resulted in a few extra layers and chilly shuffles to keep warm.
Hundreds of employees and students ventured out to the Campus Drive loop between Education Building II and Shorey Building — despite the breezy conditions that prevented a sunny, low 60s April day in Arkansas from reaching its full potential — to enjoy the festivities.
They toured booths from various vendors, including Staples, the Little Rock Zoo, the Little Rock Water Reclamation Authority, Entergy, Arkansas Forestry Commission, Arkansas Clean Cities Coalition and Tree Campus USA.
One of the most popular attractions at Earth Day was free cake, popcorn and ice cream for attendees.
Inside, at least somewhat protected from the elements, attendees toured booths of the UAMS Police Department, Ozone Action Days, Arkansas Recycling Coalition and Central Arkansas Trail Alliance.
In all, there were 15 vendors set up to visit. There were door-prize signups, free trees, flowers and light bulbs to take home, energy-saving guides passed out, as well as other goodie bags and environmental friendly info and tips distributed.
UAMS has recognized Earth Day annually since its inaugural event in 2011 with exhibits, giveaways, door prizes and tree plantings on campus in an effort to raise awareness about sustainability, the environment and energy savings.
“We had a great event, it was excellent,” said Kevin Yancy, supervisor for sustainability in Operational Support Services. “Our goal is always to help get information out to people at UAMS about steps they can take to save our planet.”
Yancy said planning has already started for next year’s event, which is set to focus on plastic bags, their harm to the environment and eco-friendly alternatives.