Sustainapalooza 2025, a celebration of collective sustainability practices, took place in the Great Hall of the Memorial Union in Ames, IA on February 24, 2025. The event, themed “Our Green Community, Our Sustainable Future,” aimed to emphasize the importance of sustainability in local communities. Attendees were treated to a variety of activities, including Green-It-Yourself (GIY) Centers, tabling organizations from Iowa State and Story County, student art displays, a clothing swap, local food offerings, and sustainable prize opportunities.
Embracing Sustainable Living Through Engaging Activities
One of the main highlights of Sustainapalooza 2025 was the Green-It-Yourself (GIY) Centers, where attendees could actively participate in creating sustainable products. From crafting sustainable soap kits to assembling protein snack kits in mason jars, the event provided a hands-on experience for individuals looking to incorporate sustainability into their daily lives. Moreover, participants had the opportunity to make tie blankets for the Ames Animal Shelter, fostering a sense of community engagement and compassion.
Merry Rankin, the director of sustainability at Iowa State, underscored the significance of individual choices in shaping a sustainable future. She emphasized that every decision, no matter how small, has a ripple effect that can inspire others to adopt sustainable practices. By serving as role models in their communities, individuals can contribute to a larger movement towards environmental stewardship and social responsibility. Rankin’s words resonated with attendees, encouraging them to reflect on their daily routines and consider the impact of their actions on the planet.
Celebrating Innovation and Creativity in Sustainable Fashion
The event also featured a showcase of sustainable clothing created by design students, highlighting the intersection of fashion and environmental consciousness. Alec Sanchez Garcia, a senior in apparel merchandising and design, presented a unique denim jacket crafted from thrifted jeans and sweatshirts. By upcycling materials and repurposing garments, Sanchez Garcia exemplified how creativity and sustainability can coexist in the realm of fashion. His innovative approach not only reduces waste but also promotes individuality and self-expression through sustainable style choices.
In addition to sustainable fashion displays, attendees had the opportunity to engage with “The Green Wall,” a platform that encouraged participants to share their personal sustainability practices and experiences. By writing on the wall and exchanging ideas, individuals were able to connect with like-minded peers and gain inspiration for living more sustainably in their own lives. The interactive nature of the event fostered a sense of community spirit and collective responsibility towards environmental conservation.
As the day drew to a close, Julia Biehl, a junior in agricultural communication, and Grace Rowe, a senior in public relations, reflected on their commitment to sustainability. Biehl shared her efforts to use reusable bags and utilize campus buses for transportation, while Rowe emphasized the importance of education and awareness in promoting sustainable behaviors. Both students exemplified the power of individual actions in driving systemic change and cultivating a culture of sustainability within their communities.
For more information on upcoming events and initiatives from the Office of Sustainability, visit their website. Your support enables us to continue our mission of informing and engaging our campus community on issues of sustainability and environmental stewardship. Together, we can create a more sustainable future for all.
