West Chester University Kicks Off Earth Week with 2026 Zero Waste Summit
Free, Hands-On Event on April 20 Invites Campus and Community to Take Action
West Chester University (WCU) will launch its 2026 Earth Week celebration with its annual Zero Waste Summit on Monday, April 20, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Sykes Student Union Ballroom (110 West Rosedale Avenue, West Chester, PA). Hosted by the WCU Office of Sustainability, the event is free and open to the public, with no registration required. Light snacks will be provided. For more information on this and other sustainability initiatives, visit wcupa.edu/sustainability or email sustainability@wcupa.edu.
Designed to empower attendees with practical tools and inspiration, this year’s summit focuses on simple, everyday actions that reduce waste and support a more sustainable campus and community. Through interactive stations, demonstrations, and student-led work, participants can explore how small changes can make a meaningful impact.
Summit Highlights – Learn, Swap, Repair, and Create:
Throughout the two-hour event, attendees can engage in a variety of activities and
resources, including:
- DIY Projects & Giveaways: Try hands-on, low-waste creations and take home sustainable items
- Student Presentations: Learn from WCU students showcasing research and ideas around sustainability
- Clothing Thrift & Swap: Browse and take home gently used clothing at no cost
- Repair Café: Free lamp repair provided by Downingtown Repair Café (parts may be extra)
- Campus Resources: Discover sustainability initiatives, programs, and ways to get involved at WCU
- More activities and surprises throughout the event (including a visit from RAMMY!)
Now in its fourth year, the Zero Waste Summit serves as a hub for innovation, education, and community connection, encouraging participants to rethink consumption and embrace more sustainable habits.
“Earth Week is the perfect moment to come together and focus on solutions,” said Bradley Flamm, Director of the Office of Sustainability at West Chester University. “The Zero Waste Summit is about making sustainability approachable—giving people the tools, ideas, and confidence to take action in their daily lives.”
For more information about the Zero Waste Summit and other Earth Week events, visit wcupa.edu/sustainability or email sustainability@wcupa.edu.
