TROY, Ala. (TROJANVISION) — From live animals to edible insects, Troy University’s Earth Day Festival brought a fun and unique approach to environmental awareness.

While some explored the exotic, others focused on sustainable style via a ‘swap shop’ that’s meant to keep local fashion out of the landfill.

“I just brought my clothes that I want to get rid of because I’m graduating and the people who walk by here if they want to grab them they can,” said student Victoria Stutts. “I enjoy that I’m giving my clothes a second life.

“One of these shorts I’ve had for 10 years and have so many memories with it. I’m glad that someone else can reuse it. I’d rather do that than spend an infinite amount of money on clothes that come out of a factory.”

CAMPUS COVERAGE: Miss Troy University encourages students to ‘Go Red’

That spirit of involvement was at the heart of the event, which aimed to turn casual observers into active participants in the university’s conservation efforts.

It’s an effort that is personal to grad student Fisher Parrish. Parrish is currently surveying Alabama and Florida to save native carnivorous plants from extinction.

“Getting involved with the school and everything outside and all of the classes in the field has made me realize we need nature more than a lot of people realize,” Parrish said. “This Earth Day is broadening the scope to people who aren’t in these classes, giving them experiences with some of the things we are doing at Troy and maybe getting them interested in some of the projects.”

Friday’s event wrapped up a full day of Earth Day-themed events including a Bat Night and bird walk.