Reducing food waste is currently rated as the #1 way to mitigate the climate crisis. In the U.S. alone, nearly 40% of food is wasted at the consumer level, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, wasted resources, and keeping food-insecure people hungry. Notre Dame International, Student Government, and Sustainability are encouraging the ND family from every corner of the world to participate in a service event in honor of Earth Week to help mitigate food waste. This service can be in whatever capacity is a viable option for you. Some sample actions include:Participating in the canned food drive in Dublin April 22-26 or donating unwanted food to your local food pantry Volunteering at Cultivate in South Bend on April 23 or volunteering at a local food rescue near you Starting an at-home composting program Participate in a Waste 'n Weigh event in the Dining Halls Make a plan and pledge to reduce your food waste at home The possibilities are endless for you to make an impact on our food systems. If you're planning a service event for Global Day of Action, be sure to let us know and gain participation! If you can't participate on April 27, feel free to provide an act of service in anticipation of the Global Day of Action. Whatever you decide to do, be sure to tag @NDInternational and @SustainableND on Instagram with #NDEarthWeek.

Wild Ones South Bend Chapter is working with the St Joseph County Public Library in hosting the first annual Spring Natural Landscaping Fair. Local landscape designers will share information and tips for using native plants in your landscapes and gardens of any size. Information on available grants for planting native gardens will be available. Native plants are those that have co-evolved with native insects and wildlife and they are deeply dependent on one another. These plants provide food and shelter to insects, birds, and other small animals, which in turn support larger predators. Native plants are the fundamental stepping stones of a healthy ecosystem. Planting native plants helps ensure the biodiversity of a region while supporting our pollinators. Native plants are adapted to local environmental conditions and, once established, they don’t require additional water, fertilizers, or frequent maintenance. Wild Ones connects people and native plants for a healthy planet. Wild Ones South Bend Chapter chartered in October of 2021, and works to fulfill its mission through education, advocacy, and collaboration. They serve the Indiana counties of St. Joseph, Elkhart, Kosciusko, Starke, LaPorte, and Michigan Counties of Berrien and Cass. For more information about the group’s events and activities, as well as many resources and information, visit the website: southbend.wildones.org. Contact: Jodi Magalski, Chapter President, Wild Ones South Bend southbend.wildones@gmail.com 574.904.1247