Thousands of people swarmed the Varied Industries Building at the Iowa State Fair trying to escape the heat and were able to learn about Iowa State’s Live Green! initiative at the same time.

“We’re talking to them about sustainability on campus, the trash compactor, how we’ve gone trayless in the dining centers, Cybrids and our electric car,” said Nate Dobbels, senior in agriculture and life sciences education and vice president of the Government of the Student Body.

A 10-foot stack of dining trays towered over fair-goers, Team PrISUm‘s solar car drew a lot of attention, and information about Iowa State’s sustainable mission was printed on display panels made of biodegradable material.

On the side of one of the displays, fair-goers had the chance to tell everyone how they were “living green.” Post-it notes read, “wedding e-invites, ride my bike everywhere and carpool,” among many others.

“Everyone has been really nice and interested in what we have to say,” said Matt Santee, sophomore in civil engineering and director of sustainability for GSB. “It’s great to see everyone’s interest.”