By Blake Jackson
Earth Day, launched more than five decades ago to promote environmental protection and awareness, continues to hold growing significance today. Dr. Tracy Marafiote, an associate professor in the Department of Communication at the State University of New York at Fredonia, believes the initiative is more relevant than ever.
“We’re facing significant environmental issues — from climate refugees to famine to the quality of our water — that we need to think about.” - Dr. Tracy Marafiote
“We need it now more than ever,” said Dr. Marafiote. “We’re facing significant environmental issues — from climate refugees to famine to the quality of our water — that we need to think about.”
To highlight sustainability efforts, Fredonia’s Department of Environmental Health, Safety and Sustainability will host its annual Earth Day Expo & Farmers’ Market on Wednesday, April 22, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Williams Center Multipurpose Room. The free event is open to both the campus community and the public.
Organized by Dr. Marafiote and student event planning assistant Mia Ciechalski, the event aims to spotlight environmental initiatives taking place on campus and across Chautauqua County.
Marafiote encourages attendees to reflect on their daily habits and consider simple actions that can make a difference, such as reducing waste, supporting local agriculture, or planting native species.
The Expo & Farmers’ Market will feature 31 booths showcasing academic programs, coursework, and student projects, including environmental communication analyses, animation concepts imagining a sustainable future, and science education initiatives connected to NASA.
Visitors can participate in hands-on activities led by student groups, such as decorating plant pots, creating seed bombs, and transforming old t-shirts into reusable tote bags.
Additional highlights include a clothing drive, plant giveaways, sustainable hygiene gift bags, and live music and dance performances.
Local conservation organizations and vendors from the Fredonia Farmers Market will also be present, offering products and information.
Since its founding in 1970, Earth Day has grown into a global movement, with over one billion participants worldwide each year.
The 2026 theme, “Our Planet, Our Power,” highlights the importance of collective action.
Photo Credit: state-university-of-new-york
Categories: New York, Education