The Office of Sustainability at Iowa State is preparing to host a local shopping day for students and the Ames community as a part of a collaboration with downtown Ames in an event called “Sust-Ames” on Saturday.

“Sust-Ames” is meant to engage the local students and community in “buying green” by shopping with local businesses, according to the press release.

“For every dollar spent in local businesses, 73 cents stays in the community,” said Molly Breen, an intern at the Office of Sustainability.

Breen said a big part of economic sustainability is giving back to the community and supporting your friends, family and local businesses.

“In Ames, we have a great local community of businesses,” Breen said. “Take advantage of the discounts and shop local.”

There are over 25 Main Street and Campustown businesses participating, with some offering their own one-day special discount in support of shopping local that day, according the to the press release.

All the local businesses will offer shoppers reusable bags made from recycled soda bottles on the day of the event, according to the press release.

“We believe in protecting the environment and want to reach out to ISU students,” said Terry Stark, owner of Chocolaterie Stam, one of the businesses in downtown Ames that will be participating Saturday.

Another local business participating is Little Woods: Herbs and Teas.

The shopping event is a part of the Live Green! Initiative’s 10 year celebration at Iowa State for the month of November, called “Buying Green.”

“Buying Green” is meant to highlight Iowa State’s efforts in green and sustainable purchases such as recycling, composting, reusing and focusing on energy-efficient and locally sourced products and services, according to the press release.