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5 Ways to Celebrate Earth Day

As Earth Day approaches (April 22, 2026), JMU Libraries invites you to celebrate our planet and explore ways to promote environmental stewardship. Check out these opportunities—from student presentations to film screenings—for you to engage with environmental issues and take meaningful action.

1. Explore Our Relevant Book Displays Online 

Check out our relevant book displays online:

2. Visit Our Seed Library 

Donate or pick up seeds at Rose Library or Massanutten Regional Library anytime the buildings are open.

Learn more about the JMU Community Seed Library. 

3. Learn about Environmental Justice and Sustainability

  • Research: Check out our Energy and the Environment research guide, created by JMU librarians.
  • Explore an Ebook by JMU Alumni: Check out Introducing Environmental Justice Advocacy, a new JMU-published ebook co-edited by Communication Studies Associate Professor Dr. Matthew Brigham and SCOM graduate students Doreen Philip and Grace Smith with help from our Open Education Librarian, Liz Thompson. The collection was designed to support teaching environmental justice at the undergraduate and graduate levels and features original chapter contributions from seven graduate program alumni. 
  • Take a Class: Students, prepare for the future by registering for courses that equip you with the tools and knowledge to address environmental challenges head-on. As you register for fall courses in April, consider the environmental sustainability courses offered by many JMU departments.

4. Attend a JMU Event 

  • The Buzz on Campus and Beyond Event – April 7, 2026 | 2:15pm-3:30 pm | EnGeo 1302: Enjoy a screening of the PBS documentary by acclaimed wildlife filmmaker Martin Dohrn, My Garden of a Thousand Bees, followed by a tour of the pollinator habitat on the East Campus Hillside to learn about the bees and other pollinators that inhabit our campus. Q&A and the tour will be led Dr. Amy Goodall, Professor Emeritus and Ali Sloop, JMU Stormwater Coordinator.
  • Student Showcase – April 17-18: Attend the College of Integrated Science and Engineering (CISE) Student Showcase to learn how CISE students are advancing sustainability when they present their projects at the 2026 Showcase, held throughout King Hall and the EnGeo buildings.
  • Trees of James Madison University Tour: Learn about JMU’s trees in this in-person or online self-guided virtual tour of the diverse trees on JMU’s campus.
  • Learn More: Connect with JMU’s Institute for Stewardship of the Natural World (ISNW), which coordinates the collaborative efforts of the university to promote environmental stewardship. Start by taking the Campus Environmental Stewardship Tour online or in person.

5. Participate in Community Environmental Efforts

  • 5th Annual Student Sustainability Summit – April 11, 2026 | Eastern Mennonite University: Witness the passion and innovation of students from five regional higher education institutions as they present projects aligned with the Sustainable Develpment Goals, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among peers. Resistration required by April 4: Student Sustainability Summit 2026 Website. Hosted by Eastern Mennonite University and Sustainable Shenandoah Valley. Transportation from JMU to EMU is available and may be requested as part of the registration.
  • Get On Board the Bus to Campus – One of the easiest ways you can make an impact is by taking the bus, walking, or bicycling instead of driving alone. The bus is fare-free, and off-campus to campus routes are usually under capacity – not crowded like the ICS. For Earth Day this year, get on board the bus to campus! Learn more about the Dukes Ride campaign.
  • Explore community events: The Harrisonburg City Calendar and the CAAV Community Event Calendar offer a great list of related events throughout the year. 
  • Learn more about Harrisonburg-area environmental organizations and initiatives.