ECC sustainability fair draws hundreds

More than 800 people attended Elgin Community College's first "green" business fair Wednesday, coinciding with Earth Day.

The goal of the Sustainability Maker Faire was to teach local entrepreneurs, students and educators how to embed sustainability into their everyday lives, organizers said.

Events included a "Shark Tank"-style pitch competition, "ECC maker challenge" for companies that produce eco-friendly products, a community carnival, family activities, Kidz Zone, an eco-friendly bazaar, organic food and live music, a fashion show featuring clothing made with recyclable material, and an eco-art show.

Attendees could participate in a live and virtual panel discussion about sustainability, visit about 50 vendor booths with eco-friendly displays, hear speaker presentations, join a fitness and yoga demonstration, get massages and sample organic foods. The first 600 attendees received a free T-shirt made from recycled water bottles. Organizers also gave away reusable water bottles to encourage being eco-friendly.

"I love the Earth, and I love the outdoors," said ECC student Ashley Shields, 19, of Algonquin. "I am big on sustainability, and I am absolutely in my element here."

Students from Jacobs, St. Charles East, and Huntley high schools were among those who pitched sustainable business ideas for the "Shark Tank" competition. The top three winners were awarded prizes of $500, $300 and $200.