April 22, better known as Earth Day, is always a time to honor Iowa State's many sustainability initiatives, organizations and accomplishments. This year’s event, in consideration of keeping all Cyclones safe and secure, focuses on online opportunities and virtual connectivity – both in Ames, across the US and around the world for the entire month of April.
In 1970, two separate individuals created the concept of Earth Day: peace activist John McConnell, who hosted an Earth Day celebration during the Spring Equinox on March 21, 1970, with help from the United Nations; and U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson, who hosted an Earth Day celebration on April 22, 1970, which more than 20 million Americans participated in. 50 years later, this beloved holiday is coordinated by the Earth Day Network and celebrated by more than one billion people in 192 countries across the world.
Earth Day 2025 will be celebrated on April 22, 2025, on the South Library Lawn from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Learn more and sign up to volunteer on the Iowa State University Events Calendar webpage. Join us in celebrating Earth Day 55!
The celebration will feature interactive "Stay and Create" or "Take and Create" upcycling activities, the opportunity to earn sustainably-minded, greener-living prizes, cookies and fruit-infused water, music from KURE, FREE bike tune-ups from ISU Recreation Services and the opportunity to learn from and network with representatives from campus and community organizations - committed to environmental, economic and social sustainability through missions, goals and initiatives.
Do not forget!! A non-perishable donation to The SHOP (campus student food pantry), your bike for a free tune-up and your reusable water bottle or mug for lavender lemonade or fruit-infused water (you can also earn one at the event).