UNM Sustainability Expo returns April 25

The 14th annual Sustainability Expo, a hub of activities and learning opportunities, is set for Thursday, April 25, from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Cornell Mall. This Earth Day-inspired event will feature a tribute to local farmers, prepared food, and a range of sustainability practices and learning opportunities, such as a seed exchange and plant starts.

This all-ages, one-day event is about sustainability and fostering a sense of community. It offers live music, local artisans, planting and composting demonstrations, and a chance to connect with campus community partners.

The Sustainability Expo is organized and managed entirely by students in the Local Food Systems Practicum course (SUST-364). Students spend the spring semester exploring the environmental, social and economic benefits of local and regional food systems with two main goals in mind:

• To immerse themselves in Albuquerque's local foodshed and food value chain and;
• To develop the Sustainability Expo & Lobo Growers' Market on UNM's Main campus.

Students research the logistical aspects of planning and managing an event while organizing the campus Sustainability Expo. The class receives guidance from local farmers, value-added producers, restaurateurs, market managers, produce distributors, and sustainable agriculture advocates.

In previous years, students have had the opportunity to visit the Santa Fe Winter Farmers' Market, the Desert Oasis Teaching Garden, Silver Leaf Farms, Chispas Farm, Roots Farm Cafe, De Smet Dairy, the La Montanita Co-op Distribution Center warehouse, and to pack food club boxes for the MoGro mobile grocery at the Roadrunner Food Bank.

In managing the Expo, students will promote sustainable living through informational booths and "how-to" demos. Alongside their efforts in the Expo, the intent behind the Grower's Market is to immerse themselves in Albuquerque's local foodshed and food value chain. This University collaboration and involvement promotes community partnerships and efficient means of sustainability.

For more information on the Sustainability Studies Program, visit the website or learn more on Instagram at @unmsustainabilityexpo.