News

By Sophie Webb

Students, staff and community members gathered outside the Student Learning Commons at the MacRae Library on Wednesday, April 22 with a shared goal in mind. For an hour and a half, small groups spread out across the campus picking up litter, chatting along the way and taking in the spring air.

Organized by Paul Manning, the Earth Day clean-up was a simple idea that quickly turned into a meaningful moment for those who took part. Manning, a member of the Agricultural Campus Sustainability Committee said the event came together after a conversation about how to recognize Earth Day on campus.

“I didn’t know of anything going on, so I thought a campus clean-up would be a straightforward way to mark the occasion and have a positive impact on our local environment,” he said. More than 30 people showed up, allowing the group to cover more ground than expected, including areas beyond the Cobequid Trail. For Manning, the turnout was one of the most memorable parts of the day.

“I was just happy to see such a wonderful group of folks come out to participate,” he said. “Many hands make light work.”

For participants, the experience was both rewarding and eye-opening. One attendee described the decision to join as an easy one, pointing to the opportunity to give back to both the planet and the campus while spending time outdoors.

“There were a lot of glow sticks; it must have been a good party,” they said. “I’m still thinking about the metal bed frame that was tossed behind the residence parking lot.”

Despite a few surprising finds, the overall impression was positive. “I was honestly surprised there wasn’t more garbage. I’m proud of our students and community for being so conscientious and respectful of nature,” they said.

Beyond the physical impact, the event also encouraged reflection on every day habits. The same participant said they are now considering carrying a small bag on walks to pick up litter along campus trails.

“It’s a small thing to do, so why not?”

For Manning, the clean-up was about more than collecting garbage. It was a chance to bring people together, get outside and contribute to something shared.

“Connection with others and moving one’s body, these are critical pieces of our mental and physical health,” he said.

As Earth Day wrapped up, the impact of the event was visible across campus. Cleaner pathways, fewer overlooked items, and a renewed sense of care for the space that so many call their own.