Help protect the environment and educate the community about sustainable initiatives by participating in Earth Week events on the University of Miami campus, April 21-25. Encompassing everything from a biodegradable water balloon toss and ReUse Store to an opportunity to create up-cycled grocery bags with unwanted T-shirts, the week is being hosted by the Energy and Conservation Organization Agency, a UM student group that helps determine and implement sustainable programs to “green” the U. On Earth Day, which this year falls on Tuesday, April 22, the annual Hug the Lake event coordinated by Random Acts of Kindness will be held at noon, with students, faculty, and staff joining hands and encircling Lake Osceola in a demonstration of environmental awareness.

Monday, April 21: Biodegradable Water Balloon Toss on the Foote Green from noon to 2 p.m.

Tuesday, April 22: Earth Day at the Rock from noon to 2 p.m.; Hug the Lake (organized by Random Acts of Kindness) at noon.

Wednesday, April 23: Food Day at the Rock from noon to 2 p.m.

Thursday, April 24: Arboretum Picnic at the Arboretum from 12:30 to 2 p.m.

Friday, April 25: Reduce Your Carbon Footprint at the Rock from noon to 2 p.m.

Earth Week is open and free to all students and members of the UM community.