Earth Day is coming up in April. It is a day to recognize the importance of taking care of our planet and emphasizes the importance of a sustainable future. For Schreiber, this year’s Earth Day celebration is being led by the Tree Huggers Club, a group of passionate students committed to environmental stewardship and promoting green initiatives. With a focus on creating an inclusive, action-oriented environment, the Tree Huggers Club is a space for students to create a sustainable future at Schreiber.
The Tree Huggers Club meets every Friday in room 34 at 7:30 a.m., offering a space where students can come together to discuss environmental issues, brainstorm solutions, and take direct action to protect the Earth. Whether it’s organizing recycling drives, planning school-wide sustainability efforts, or working to raise awareness about climate change, the Tree Huggers Club is focused on making a positive impact on both the school and the broader community.
“I love being a part of the Tree Huggers Club because I get to see how small actions can have a big impact. Whether it’s planning an event or simply talking about how we can be more sustainable, it feels great to be contributing to the protection of our planet. I’m really proud of what we’ve accomplished so far, and I can’t wait to see how we can make an even bigger difference moving forward,” said junior Brandon Lam, the club’s social media manager.
Each meeting is filled with thoughtful discussions about pressing environmental issues, from climate change and deforestation to pollution and conservation. Members of the Tree Huggers Club engage in research initiatives, collaborate with local organizations, and brainstorm practical ways to make the school and the community more sustainable.
For instance, during past meetings, the club has organized campus clean-up events, advocated for more recycling bins around school, and coordinated tree-planting activities in local parks. They have also worked closely with teachers and administrators to create a more sustainable campus by implementing green practices, such as reducing paper waste and encouraging reusable water bottles. Whether the club is hosting a tree-planting event in honor of Earth Day, or educating peers about the importance of reducing single-use plastics, there are always new initiatives on the horizon.
Co-presidents Isaac Graubard and Sydney Forman and Vice President Megan Zhou currently lead the Tree Huggers Club. Under their guidance, the club has expanded its efforts, bringing together a diverse group of students who share a passion for environmental causes. The club is also supported by advisor Mr. Luis Gallego, who helps students organize events, coordinate outreach programs, and connect with environmental organizations outside of the school.
The Tree Huggers Club is not just about big events; rather, it’s about building a community of students who care deeply about the planet and are eager to educate others. One of the most important aspects of the club is its educational outreach, which includes spreading awareness about sustainability and teaching practical environmental habits. Whether it’s reducing water usage, conserving energy, or promoting green transportation, the club aims to provide students with the tools they need to lead more eco-friendly lives.
“I think Tree Huggers is extremely important because it’s an environmental club, trying to advocate for environmental issues and flourish Earth by planting daffodils and attempting and advocating to reduce waste. By doing this, we’re trying to protect all life on earth and bring awareness to the harm that has affected Earth,” said Zhou.
The club’s efforts to promote sustainability doesn’t stop at just the school. The Tree Huggers Club has partnered with local environmental organizations to support tree planting initiatives, clean-up efforts, and other community-driven projects. Their collaboration with these organizations has allowed the club to broaden its impact, demonstrating how local action can lead to global change.
Since Earth Day is coming up, the Tree Huggers Club hosted an event designed to bring attention to key environmental issues and encourage students to get involved during Wellness Day this year. The club organized a daffodil-planting event on the school grounds, where students helped plant bulbs and learned about the importance of planting in combating climate change.
“Earth Day is so important because it brings awareness to all of the various environmental causes. Not only is Earth Day about protecting the Earth, it is also about making changes for the better. The earth is our only home so it is so important to protect and preserve every living species on it. Today, we are facing many threats from global warming and climate change, that’s why this Earth Day we should all be coming together and focusing on bettering our Earth, instead of focusing on our differences,” said Graubard.
The Tree Huggers Club’s efforts are especially important in a time when the world is facing increasing environmental challenges. Climate change, habitat destruction, and pollution are just a few of the pressing issues that require urgent action. However, the club’s positive and proactive approach demonstrates that every student can contribute to creating a more sustainable future.
The Tree Huggers Club is proof that environmental activism doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it can be local, collaborative, and deeply impactful. As Earth Day approaches, the club encourages all students to join them in celebrating and taking action to protect the planet. Whether it’s by participating in events, volunteering for clean-ups, or simply making more sustainable choices in daily life, everyone has the power to make a difference. Through the dedication and hard work of the Tree Huggers Club, students are able to take small actions that have a big impact on the future.