Eco-Share Initiative at UTSA's Monster Mash Pumpkin Smash and STEM Fair!

At the annual UTSA Pumpkin smash, I set up my booth next to a few other student organizations. The day was rainy as expected in the forecast, but the rain stopped as soon as we arrived. The premise of the day was to showcase fun hands-on STEM activities with grade school children and their families. We could also see trebuchets periodically launching rotten pumpkins in the background.

Our booth was building solar fan kits. However, due to the rainy nature of the day. The sky was incredibly overcast with not nearly enough sun to power a solar fan. In anticipation of this, we brought a portable battery and a very bright lamp. So after the kids had fun building their fan, they would be delighted when they saw that it actually worked! I explained the installation process step by step, the science behind why their fans were spinning, and how renewable energy can help pave the way for a cleaner future.

In addition to building solar fans, I also gave the option to give out a free repurposed charger equipped with a night light. Almost everyone took the offer. The parents were very impressed at this creative upcycling and some even asked for my nonprofit. It felt good to know that some families cared about sustainability and making a positive impact on the environment.

The event itself was much akin to a carnival. There were games, food, music, and entertainment. This was hosted by an academic institution (UTSA) so naturally there would be some aspect of learning and science involved. The students at UTSA would showcase their trebuchets and see who could launch a pumpkin the furthest. And many others such as myself created engaging STEM activities for everyone to enjoy.

I hope I was able to teach the next generation a bit about sustainability, and let them have fun in the process. Thanks to everyone who stopped by our booth to make a solar fan and special thanks to those who took a charger and visited our website.