Earth Month

Welcome to Earth Month® 2026

Each year, in the weeks leading up to Earth Day (April 22), the Institute for Environmental Justice and Sustainability, in partnership with various Seattle University departments and student groups, encourages action and participation in initiatives that focus on the collective imperative for environmental justice, sustainable development, and climate solutions. Join us for the many events and initiatives organized during Earth Month 2026 at Seattle University.

More events will be added over the coming weeks. Check back regularly for updates.

KXSU E-Waste Drive - Hosted by KXSU

When: Entire month of April
Where: Bin outside of Sinegal 230
Description: Do you have any old headphones, chargers, cables or other sorts of electronics laying around the house that you don’t use anymore? Then stop by the KXSU studio during the month of April in honor of Earth Month for our E-Waste drive! Collected e-waste will be properly recycled. Email nmelendez@seattleu.edu with questions. View and share the KXSU E-Waste Drive Flyer.
This drive is hosted by KXSU, Seattle University's student-run radio.

Rudy Goes to the Galápagos: Earth Month Walking Challenge - Hosted by Education Abroad

When: Entire month of April
Where: Virtual
Description: Celebrate Earth Month by joining the Education Abroad Office and our campus community for a virtual trek through the Galápagos Islands—one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. As you log miles via the Conqueror app, you’ll unlock stories about the islands and contribute to real conservation efforts along the way. Students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members are welcome to join. The cost is $38.99 (includes app access, medal of completion, and your choice of planting 5 trees or stopping 50 bottles from entering the ocean), but the first 5 students to complete the interest form will receive free entry! Hike 80 miles, your way: Complete it solo (about 2.7 miles/day during April), or team up and split the miles with friends or colleagues! Complete the interest form by April 3rd to reserve your spot and receive next steps, including how to join our group on the Conqueror app. Whether you're walking across campus, exploring your neighborhood, or getting outside in new ways, every step brings us closer to the Galápagos—and supports conservation!
This opportunity is hosted by Education Abroad.

Earth Month at Redhawk Dining

When: Throughout of the month of April
Where: Cherry Street Market
Description: Enjoy Meat Free Fridays during the lunch hour at Home Base, weekly earth friendly menu items such as grain bowls, vegan sushi bowls, and Greek goddess salads, and weekly informational tabling sessions about receiving discounts when using an OZZI box.
These initiatives are run by Redhawk Dining. 

Environmental Careers Spotlight by Career Engagement

When: Throughout the month of April
Where: Social media platforms
Description: Throughout the month of April, Career Engagement will be highlighting careers, internships and green organizations on their social media platforms. Follow Career Engagement's Instagram, @sucareerengagement, to stay up to date on all they post.
This initiative is run by Career Engagement.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY WITH COMMUNITY PARTNER: Collect Data on Bird Collisions at Seattle University

When: Multiple days throughout April and May
Where: Sinegal Center for Science and Innovation
Description: Be a volunteer community scientist with the Seattle Bird Collision Monitoring Project (SBCMP) which conduct surveys for dead and injured birds along routes in Capitol Hill and Downtown Seattle, including at Seattle University campus. As a community scientist, you will play a key role in identifying the ‘where’ and ‘when’ of bird-window strikes to provide critical evidence needed to make cities safer for birds. April 1 is a virtual volunteer orientation, April 4 is an onsite training, and monitoring shifts are once a week from April 15-May 29. Register to volunteer.
This event is hosted by Birds Connect Seattle.

Potted Spikes - Hosted by Residence Hall Association (RHA)

When: Tuesday, April 7th, 2026, 4:30-6pm
Where: TBD
Description: Take a break and get creative with RHA! Come decorate a pot, plant your own cactus, and take it home as a fun addition to your room. All supplies are provided; just bring yourself!
This event is hosted by Residence Hall Association (RHA).

Pets & Petals - Hosted by SEAC

When: Wednesday, April 8th, 2026, 1pm-3pm
Where: Library Plaza
Description: To welcome the Spring Quarter and celebrate Earth Day, SEAC is hosting Pets & Petals! There will be native flower bouquet making, seed paper making, free matcha, and more.
This event is hosted by SEAC.

Climate in Therapy Documentary Screening - Hosted by Sustainable Student Action (SSA)

When: Thursday, April 9th, 2026, 7-8:30pm
Where: Lemieux Library Media Production Center Screening Room
Description: Join SSA in watching Climate in Therapy, a documentary that follows seven renowned climate scientists as they step into group therapy to explore an unknown area of research: their own emotions.
This event is hosted by Sustainable Student Action (SSA).

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY WITH UNIVERSITY MINISTRY AND IEJS: Westcrest Park Restoration Day

When: Saturday, April 11th, 2026, 9am-1:30pm
Where: Westcrest Park, meet at Seattle University Pigott Visitor Lot
Description: Students, staff, and faculty are invited to participate in a celebration of Earth Day by taking care of a section of the West Duwamish Greenbelt led by Dirt Corps. We'll be learning about some of the early spring plants in this unique forest ecosystem in Westcrest Park. We'll then be caring for the restoration area by applying mulch around the native plants and trees and removing weeds. University Ministry and the Institute for Environmental Justice and Sustainability will provide vans from SU to the park, snacks, and lead an eco-examen at the end of the event. Registration on ConnectSU is required. See and share the Westcrest Park Restoration Day Flyer.
This event is hosted by University Ministry and the Institute for Environmental Justice and Sustainability (IEJS).

Thrifting with SSA - Hosted by Sustainable Student Action (SSA)

When: Sunday, April 12th, 2026, 10am
Where: Meet at Union Green to go to Goodwill Bins (1765 6th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98134)
Description: Join Sustainable Student Action on a trip to the Goodwill bins to look for secondhand clothing! Meet at the Union Green (between Pigott and St. Ignatius Chapel).
This event is hosted by Sustainable Student Action (SSA).

Clothing Drive - Hosted by Environmental Law Society (ELS)

When: April 13th-17th, 2026
Where: Sullivan Hall Court Level
Description: Americans throw away 81.5 pounds of clothing annually. 60% of clothing is made from non-biodegradable fabrics. Donating clothes is one of the best sustainable practices! Bring gently used clothing to donation boxes in the Sullivan Hall Court Level. Gently used clothing will be donated to the West Seattle Clothesline. See and share the ELS Clothing Drive Flyer.
This drive is hosted by the Environmental Law Society (ELS).

The New Progressives: A Conversation with Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson and King County Executive Girmay Zahilay - Hosted by the College of Arts and Sciences

When: Tuesday, April 14th, 2026, 4-5pm
Where: Pigott Auditorium
Description: Seattle University’s College of Arts and Sciences presents the Spring 2026 Conversations program with King County Executive Girmay Zahilay and Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson. Zahilay and Wilson have been in office only a few months. This conversation, sponsored by the SU Department of Public Affairs and Nonprofit Leadership, presents a unique opportunity to hear from both leading progressives about how they plan to guide the city and county in the coming months and years. What changes will they make? What changes have they already achieved? Will their visions prevail — or be derailed? Listen in as they discuss what they are doing - listening, learning and taking pragmatic steps to deliver services throughout the region. Topics covered may relate to transportation and other areas relevant to sustainability. This event is free and open to the public; please RSVP.
This event is hosted by the College of Arts and Sciences and sponsored by the Department of Public Affairs and Nonprofit Leadership.

Ecological Impacts of AI Panel Discussion - Hosted by Environmental Law Society (ELS)

When: Wednesday, April 15th, 2026, 5-7pm
Where: Sullivan Hall, Room C5
Description: In the midst of the AI gold rush, the rapid development and deployment of this powerful technology and related infrastructure make it difficult to ascertain and mitigate its environmental impacts. Resource-intensive AI also offers real-world applications for climate change and conservation. Please join distinguished environmental and AI practitioners to learn about the challenges and nuances of relationship between AI and the environment. Refreshments will be provided. RSVP on ConnectSU.
This event is hosted by the Environmental Law Society (ELS). 

EVENT & VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY WITH COMMUNITY PARTNER: Black Earth Day

When: Saturday, April 18th, 2026, 10am-3pm
Where: Genesee Park & Playfield
Description: Black Earth Day is an annual community celebration that brings together residents, organizations, and advocates to uplift environmental justice and connect people with resources that support healthy communities. Now in its 5th year, Black Earth Day highlights the leadership of Black, Brown, immigrant, and overburdened communities in advancing environmental stewardship, climate resilience, and community health. Hosted by the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle’s Environmental Justice program, the event will feature community organizations, educational workshops, youth activities, outdoor games, and environmental resources. ULMS is looking for community volunteers to help support this year’s Black Earth Day celebration. If you're interested in volunteering, please email cejs@seattleu.edu for more details and to connect with the event organizers.
This event is hosted by the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle.

Educational Panel on Indigenous Rights & the Environment

When: Monday, April 20th, 2026, 12-1pm
Where: TBD
Description: More details coming soon.

Bosanko Public Lecture on Sustainability and Growth in Developing Economies: India’s Energy Transition - Hosted by Albers School of Business and Economics

When: Monday, April 20th, 2026, 4-6pm
Where: Casey Commons (Casey 530)
Description: In this academic public lecture, Aparna Sawhney, Professor at the Centre for the Study of the World Economy in the School of International Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University (India), will examine India’s clean energy transition through the lens of sustainability, economic growth, and energy security in a developing-economy context. As one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and home to nearly 1.5 billion people, India faces the complex challenge of expanding energy access while reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable development. Attendees will gain insight into how policy design, market mechanisms, and international trade intersect with climate goals in developing countries. The lecture will be followed by a moderated Q&A session. This event is open to students, faculty, researchers, policy professionals, and members of the public interested in climate policy, sustainable development, and global energy transitions. See lecture details
This event is hosted by the Albers School of Business and Economics.

An Evening with Amy Cordalis - Hosted by Indigenous Peoples Institute (IPI)

When: Tuesday, April 21st, 2026, 4pm-5pm
Where: Oberto Commons (SINE 200)
Description: Join an evening with Amy Bowers Cordalis, a Yurok mother, fisherwoman, attorney, and nationally recognized leader in Indigenous environmental advocacy. Amy has served as General Counsel of the Yurok Nation and now leads the Ridges to Riffles Indigenous Conservation Group, where she works to advance sovereignty and protect cultural and natural resources, including the undamming of the Klamath River. She is also the author of The Water Remembers (Hachette, 2025) and will have copies of the book available for purchase at the event. Open to the public at no cost, this event offers an opportunity to engage with a powerful voice for land, water, and Indigenous futures. Early registration is encouraged, as space and tickets are limited. See and share the An Evening with Amy Cordalis Flyer.
This event is hosted by Seattle University's Indigenous Peoples Institute (IPI) and co-sponsored with the Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture (ICTC) and the Institute for Environmental Justice and Sustainability (IEJS).

Earth Talks at Seattle University - Hosted by the Institute for Environmental Justice and Sustainability (IEJS)

When: Wednesday, April 22nd, 2026, 12-1:30pm
Where: Le Roux Room (Student Center 160)
Description: Join us for the 7th edition of “Earth Talks,” Seattle University’s annual Earth Day celebration showcasing inspirational 5-min talks on “Care for our Common Home” by students, faculty, and staff from across schools and programs at SU. Presentations will cover advocacy, research, and service projects related to environmental justice and sustainability. Join us and support fellow students and colleagues presenting. Registration is encouraged. See list of presenters and topics at www.seattleu.edu/earth-talks.
This event is a Laudato Si’ Action Platform initiative sponsored by the Institute for Environmental Justice and Sustainability (IEJS), Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture (ICTC), and the Indigenous Peoples Institute (IPI).

Earth Day/ImpactFul Event - Hosted by Redhawk Dining

When: Wednesday, April 22nd, 2026, 11am-2:30pm
Where: Cherry Street Market (STCN 2nd floor)
Description: Join Redhawk Dining's Earth Day celebration event featuring a farmers market, earth-friendly menus showcasing local produce, sustainable artwork showcase, plant and pot decorating, and an activity to upcycle food scraps into pet treats to donate to an animal shelter.
This event is hosted by Redhawk Dining.

Garden Meditation: The Wisdom of Trees - Hosted by Center for Ecumenical and Interreligious Engagement

When: Thursday, April 23rd, 2026, 4:30-6pm
Where: Meet at the Labyrinth behind Loyola Hall
Description: In celebration of Earth Month and Laudato Si', we invite you to explore deep connection with the natural world through practices which support the ecological conversion encouraged in Laudato Si'. Through simple, meditative practices, you'll experience a new connection with the many trees that populate the campus, and open yourself to receiving the wisdom they have to offer. Each practice - story, art, walking meditation and others - is easily repeated on your own and designed to assist you in developing an attitude of connection and care.  The meditation walk begins at the Labyrinth and end with a tea ritual at the Indigenous People's Institute. See details and RSVP.
This event is hosted by the Center for Ecumenical and Interreligious Engagement and the Indigenous Peoples Institute.

Clothing and Gear Swap - Hosted by Stoke

When: Friday, April 24th, 2026, 1-2:30pm
Where: Pigott 109
Description:  Bring any outdoor gear or clothing that you are ready to get rid of and find gear and clothing you like! It is not required that you bring something in order to take something but the more items we have the more gear can be spread around.
This event is hosted by Stoke, Seattle University's outdoors club. 

Annual Earth Day Summit: Finding Common Ground - Hosted by the Laudato Si’ Movement Washington chapter (LSM-WA)

When: Saturday, April 25th, 2026, 8:30am-4:30pm
Where: Le Roux Room (Student Center 160)
Description: The Laudato Si’ Movement Washington chapter (LSM-WA) invites you to attend the annual Earth Day Summit – Caring for Creation: Finding Common Ground. Join us for a day of building bridges through love for creation with a diverse group of presenters from across Washington State. The keynote, "Our Sacred Earth: The Care of Creation as a Spiritual Imperative" will be presented by Sr. Mimi Maloney, SNJM (Spokane), and Sr. Mary Ellen Robinson, SNJM (Yakima), and Ms. Eleana Pawl (Seattle). The summit also features special guests, including Lynda Mapes, retired Pulitzer Prize-nominated Environmental Reporter for the Seattle Times and National Outdoor Book Award Winner. Registration is required for the summit, and all are welcome to attend this free event.
The summit is sponsored by Laudato Si’ Movement Washington (LSM-WA), Seattle University’s Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture (ICTC), the Intercommunity Peace and Justice Center (IPJC), the Archdiocese of Seattle, St. James Cathedral and the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM).

Stop Food Waste Day - Hosted by Redhawk Dining

When: Tuesday, April 28th, 2026, 12-1:30pm
Where: Cherry Street Market (STCN 2nd floor)
Description: How much food do we waste each day at lunch at Seattle University? Throughout the first week of February during the lunch hour at Cherry Street Market, we will be collecting food waste to track how much we’re producing. The purpose of this event is to help educate people on where to properly dispose of their food waste, raise awareness of the amount of food waste generated and to-go boxes used every day, and to encourage people to reduce their food waste and to use more sustainable plating options (i.e. traditional plates or OZZI boxes).
This event is hosted by Redhawk Dining and the Institute for Environmental Justice and Sustainability (IEJS).

Threadhawk Thrift - Hosted by Career Engagement

When: Tuesday, April 28th, 2026
Where: TBD
Description: More details coming soon.

Thrifted Clothes Fundraiser - Hosted by Sustainable Student Action (SSA)

When: Wednesday, April 29th, 2026, 11am-1:30pm
Where: Pigott Atrium
Description: More details coming soon.

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*Earth Month® is a registered trademark of Bradley Follett operated by the Earth Month Network, Inc. ™