TROY – Troy University’s efforts at sustainability reach even downed limbs on the Troy Campus.

The University is highlighting Earth Week 2013 with a series of events designed to promote environmental awareness and recycling, in cooperation with KW Plastics and City of Troy.

Many efforts – from lighting considerations, to construction to grounds management – include specific steps aimed at reducing the campus’ carbon footprint, said Mark Salmon, director of the University’s Physical Plant.

“We are working to look at ways we can be more sustainable in every process we have,” he said.

One of those processes deals with limb debris removal on the campus, and has become a boon to fireplace owners in the city.

“We’re cutting and stacking firewood. It’s incredible to see the reduction in our waste stream caused simply by cutting debris into firewood length, stacking it and putting up a small sign that says ‘Free Firewood’,” he said.

ADMH is encouraging the public to participate in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day by safely discarding of unwanted and unused prescription drugs at collection sites throughout the state. Take Back Day will be held this Saturday, April 27 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Local collection sites can be found by visiting www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback/index.html. The service is free and anonymous, with no questions asked.

This effort represents the sixth opportunity in three years to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs. The DEA, as well as state and local law enforcement, collaborate to offer the initiative. Last September, Americans turned in 244 tons of prescription drugs at over 5,200 sites.

The Helen Keller Art Show is now on exhibit at the Wiregrass Museum of Art through May 17th

For over a decade, the Wiregrass Museum of Art has hosted The Helen Keller Art Show of Alabama.  Each year, artwork created by Alabama children with visual impairments, blindness and deafness is shown from Tennessee to Mobile. The show is juried, state-wide. Select pieces are also shown internationally.