Troy University is celebrating Earth Day on Friday, April 24 with an afternoon of activities on the Academic Quad and at the Troy University Arboretum.

A joint venture between the Troy Naturalist Club, Troy University Environmental Club and Troy University Marine Biology Club, the Earth Day Festival will feature live animals cyanotyping art with natural and found materials, edible insects, educational zones and a swap meet for students to exchange items.

“The environment affects every aspect of daily life from economics to health to culture,” said Troy Naturalist Club Vice President Helena Loucas. “We want to provide everyone with activities and education in celebration of our planet’s environment, and we would like to have as many organizations and student clubs as possible join us.”

Additionally, a guided bird walk will be held at the arboretum at 4 p.m. followed by yoga on the Quad at 5 p.m.

This event is one of many this semester hosted by the University’s environmental clubs. Arboretum Director and Biology Professor Dr. Alvin Diamond said the clubs are instrumental in bringing environmental awareness to not just the student body, but the Troy community at large.

“The members of the Troy University Naturalist Club are proud to play a role in working with other clubs and organizations to bring Earth Day to life every day,” he said. “They work both at our University and throughout the larger community to educate people about the natural world around us. By presenting hands-on educational experiences and events such as Arbor Day, Gopher Tortoise Day and Bugs ‘n Burgers, they help people of all ages connect with the natural world and understand how they can be better stewards of it.”

The event begins at 3 p.m. and is free and open to the public.