Earth Fest at the University of Wisconsin–Madison will bring together all things environment and sustainability and unite our campus over the one resource and interest we all share: our world. Dive into groundbreaking research or dig in the dirt at community gardens. Sift and winnow the latest research or sort and filter recyclables. Make career connections for your future or master sustainable techniques for your home.

Schedule:

Monday, April 21, 2025

3:00 pm - 4:30 pm: Ecopoetry Workshop at 280 Science Hall

Ecopoet and nonfiction writer Heather Swan will be hosting an ecopoetry writing workshop. All levels welcome! Please bring a notebook and pen or pencil.

3:30 pm - 5:00 pm: Plants for the Apocalypse III at D.C. Smith Greenhouse

What kind of plants would you want around for the end of the world? Plants are our partners in life and in death. They signal the coming of the apocalypse, heal us and harm us, provide nourishment through extreme experiences, or help us cope with our mental health in challenging ecological times. We will explore the entanglements of plant-human-environment relationships through the lenses of the four horsemen of the apocalypse: death, war, famine, and plague. What can we, as human participants, learn from these relationships through space and time? Drop in to hear from UW-Madison community members about these multi-dimensional perspectives that can affect the health of humans and non-humans alike.

7:30 pm: Earth Signals at Collins Recital Hall, Hamel Music Center

We are exploring tropical Pacific climate through sound. This concert will include both science explanations of tropical Pacific climate and newly composed music inspired by this science topic. This event is part of Elizabeth Maroon’s NSF CAREER award.

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

9:00 am - 5:00 pm : UW-Madison Cannabis Conference at Union South, Third Floor

The UW-Madison Cannabis Conference is a dynamic, multidisciplinary event aimed at expanding awareness, fostering knowledge exchange, and bridging gaps in cannabis research, education, and policy. Featuring four key sessions — Health & Research, Science & Horticulture, Business & Innovation, and Policy & Regulation — the conference brings together experts, students, and industry leaders to explore the latest developments in marijuana and industrial hemp. Through engaging discussions, networking opportunities, and poster sessions, attendees will gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of cannabis science, industry, and regulation.

1:30 pm - 3:30 pm : Allen Centennial Garden’s Plant Give Away, Swap, and Plant Pot Swap at Allen Centennial Garden

Drop by Allen Centennial for a plant and pot swap. What to bring? An old plant needing a slightly bigger pot. An old plant you’d be willing to swap, share, or divide. Extra old pots you have and are willing to swap. A mug or other container you’d like to turn into a pot like a bowl, or cup. We can put holes into glass, ceramic, and plastic, but not metal.

3:00 pm - 4:30 pm : Sustainability Research Networking Event at Memorial Union, Tripp Commons (second floor)

Join the Sustainability Research Hub for an Earth Fest Networking Event, where researchers, faculty, and sustainability staff will come together to explore critical challenges. This interactive session will foster innovative ideas and valuable collaborations, emphasizing the deep connections between RISE-EARTH, RISE-AI, and RISE-THRIVE.

Through round table discussions focused on a variety of themes, participants can examine how AI-driven solutions and human-centered approaches to well-being and equity intersect with environmental sustainability. Thought leaders from all three RISE areas will share insights on how technology, policy, and community engagement can drive transformative change.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a cross-disciplinary dialogue that shapes the future of sustainability! All UW-Madison faculty and staff are welcome to participate!

3:00 pm - 5:00 pm : Volunteering at the UW Lakeshore Nature Preserve

Celebrate Earth Day by volunteering to clean up the UW Lakeshore Nature Preserve! Join students from the Morgridge Center for Public Service and the Actuarial Science Club at UW-Madison to collect litter and clean up a native plant garden. We will supply work gloves, trash bags, and tools. This event is open to UW–Madison students only. Meet at the Frautschi Point parking lot.

4:30 pm : UW–Madison Renewable Electricity Goals: What Are the Options? at 1115 Wisconsin Energy Institute

Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin has set an ambitious vision for campus environmental sustainability, including achieving 100 percent renewable electricity by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2048. Turning our attention to the renewable electricity goal, what would it take to reach that goal? What are the opportunities and barriers? What options are being explored to meet campus renewable electricity goals with the Wisconsin Idea top of mind? Join us either in person at the Wisconsin Endiverse group of stakeholders involved in advancing campus toward this goal.

5:30 pm - 7:00 pm : Hot, Hot, Hot: Climate Change, Heat, and Health, an Upcoming Hot Topics in Public Health symposium at  1335 Health Sciences Learning Center

This symposium will provide an overview of the science behind climate change, heat exposure and health consequences. The example of the 2003 heat wave that killed 15,000 people in France will illustrate the complex interplay of social and behavioral factors resulting in severe outcomes of heat exposure. Recent research on the role of heat and humidity on mortality of dialysis patients will demonstrate effects of a changing climate on patient care and public health. Attend in person or virtually.

7:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Crossroads of Ideas: Toxins at the Tap – Navigating the Future of PFAS and Our Water Supply at  Discovery Building

Join us on Earth Day 2025 for a thought-provoking fireside chat featuring experts Hilary Dugan, Manny Teodoro, and Christy Remucal. Delve into the world of PFAS — per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances — often referred to as “forever chemicals.” Our distinguished panel will explore the complex challenges these contaminants pose to our environment and public health, their impact on water systems, and the urgent policy changes needed to safeguard our future. This conversation will shed light on the critical decisions and innovations required to address one of today’s most pressing environmental issues.

7:00 pm - 8:30 pm : Tales from Planet Earth Presents Planetwalker at  Marquee Theater, Union South

Join the Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies during Earth Fest for a special screening of Planetwalker, the acclaimed documentary shortlisted for the 2025 Oscars.

After witnessing the 1971 oil spill in San Francisco Bay, John Francis traveled across America on foot — and in silence. His journey redefined activism, education, and human connection. Planetwalker is directed by Dominic Gill and Nadia Gill and has captivated audiences worldwide with its powerful message of commitment and change.

Following the screening, Francis will join Tia Nelson and James Edward Mills for a discussion about his environmental journey, resilience, and the power of personal action.

Wednesday, April 23, 2025

11:00 am : Ecopoetry Open Mic at 145 Birge Hall

Environmental Humanities 113 is hosting an eco-poetry open mic. Bring a poem about the natural world that you love or one you wrote yourself.

2:00 pm - 7:00 pm : Earth Fest Forum: Climate Courage at Discovery Building

Join the Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies and the UW–Madison Office of Sustainability for a day of art, action, and stories of resilience as we explore what it means to show up for the planet, each other, and ourselves.

The Earth Fest Forum is presented in partnership with the Center for Healthy Minds.

What to Expect:

-Inspiration: Explore live screen printing, dance performances, and art installations
-Education: Hear from faculty experts, visionaries, and community leaders
-Motivation: Meet fellow Badgers and community members who are making a difference

Thursday, April 24, 2025

1:00 pm - 1:30 pm: Global Learning, Green Traveling: Sustainable Study Abroad

This event highlights the importance of sustainable travel. Attendees will learn how travel impacts local communities and the environment, and how small changes can significantly reduce global footprints. We will showcase some of UW–Madison’s study abroad programs focused on sustainability and feature student testimonials on how sustainable practices enhance travel experiences and make a positive impact.

3:00 pm - 4:30 pm : Bee Hotel and Little Free Library Celebration at Allen Centennial Garden

Stop by Allen Centennial Garden to see the newly installed solar little free library and bee hotel! Pick up some free seeds from the seed library, build your own miniature bee hotel to take home, enjoy tasty snacks, and learn more about the new additions to the garden.

5:30 pm - 7:30 pm : Watts Next? A Student Roundtable on UW–Madison’s Energy Future at The Crossing

The event is hosted by the UW–Madison Office of Sustainability in collaboration with Associated Students of Madison Sustainability, Food Recovery Network, Slow Food, and other student organizations. The event will feature a no-cost dinner and sustainability-focused presentations.

7:15 pm - 8:15 pm : Earth Day Trivia Night at  Der Rathskeller, Memorial Union

The Nelson ambassadors will be hosting trivia in Memorial Union. There will be a variety of trivia categories. Prizes will be awarded to teams who end with the most points.

Friday, April 25, 2025

12:00 pm - 2:00 pm: Volunteering at the Allen Centennial Garden

Join us at the Allen Centennial Garden to help get the garden ready for spring. Be prepared to work outside and get a little dirty. This event is open to UW–Madison students only

3:00 pm - 5:00 pm : Green Cities, Green Students Resource Fair at 280 Science Hall

Utility services like electricity, running water, and sanitation are essential to our daily lives, yet they often go overlooked. Join us for hands-on activities and an informative session that will help you better understand how these services work and how they contribute to advancing sustainability. You’ll learn about their critical role in our communities and discover how improvements in energy efficiency can lower emissions and your energy bills. Plus, attendees will have access to practical kits designed to help make their living spaces more energy-efficient, saving you money while reducing your environmental impact. Food will also be provided!

Sunday, April 27, 2025

11:00 am - 12:00 pm: Two Wheels, Many Stories: A Graphic Artist’s Journey to Interview Climate Activists Across the U.S. at UW Arboretum

French artist and author Julia Bourdet is currently writing a graphic novel about her seven-month artistic residency in the United States, during which she crossed the Atlantic on a cargo ship and traveled from New York to San Francisco by bike and train. Her goal was to meet environmental activists in the U.S. and ask them about the pivotal moments that led them to take action. Her book gradually evolved into a deeper reflection on both personal and collective turning points in the face of the climate crisis.

This presentation offers a preview of her forthcoming book and weaves together journal fragments, documentary observations, and fictional storytelling to trace a personal journey toward ecological awareness. Julia will explore how comics, as a hybrid medium, can indirectly embody ecological issues.

1:30 pm : Spring Wildflowers of the UW Lakeshore Nature Preserve

Celebrate spring with a nature walk in the UW Lakeshore Nature Preserve to look for spring ephemeral wildflowers. The walk will be led by Dr. Eve Emshwiller (Department of Botany) and Preserve Volunteer Steward Glenda Denniston. Text (608) 220-5560 to confirm the event in case of inclement weather. Meet at the Picnic Point entrance kiosk, 2000 University Bay Drive.

Tuesday, April 29, 2025

11:00 am - 1:00 pm : Clearer Currents: Rainfall Simulator and Campus Stormwater at Four Lakes Market Patio

Join the Department of Environment, Health, and Safety and Dane County’s Ripple Effects for a demonstration of how groundcover can impact stormwater quality. Plus, learn how the practices and infrastructure utilized on campus are enhancing stormwater management.

5:00 pm : Civil Rights Activism and Agriculture: A Family That Kept the Land at Discovery Building

The scholarship on the Great Migration concentrates on those who left the south, yet millions of African American farmer families stayed. Their voices have been overlooked. One family that chose to stay in the south and live on the land as farmers is the Paris family. George H., the first Black USDA loan officer and civil rights activist taught his sons, George M. and Wendell, the power of combining agriculture and activism. They offer us a lens to understand social movement activism across the lifespan, intergenerational activism and how agriculture was used as a strategy of resistance and resilience.

This event will be held in the DeLuca Forum in the Discovery Building

Date: April 21, 2025 - April 29, 2025

Location: Various Venue in Madison, WI

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