Today marks the 39th annual celebration of Earth Day.

All across the country and right here in North Central Florida people gathered to promote a message of protecting our planet.

At the University of Florida's Plaza of the Americas, student groups handed out information on how to recycle hazardous materials and ways to conserve energy. You could even grab free samples of vegan brownies that could be part of a diet that is one way to reduce your carbon footprint.

"We're basically trying to attract people with the goodies and getting them to consider reducing their meat and dairy consumption for the sake of the environment," said Lindsay Mills, President of student environmental vegetarian group enVeg.

Or if you preferred something that would last a bit longer, there were also free plants and saplings.

"It feels good and it gets people involved and thinking about it more," said UF student William Dueease.

In his first ever outdoor address on sustainability, UF President Bernie Machen said UF recycled 52-hundred tons of material last school year. He also shared a recent change in his work routine.

"Today is the first day that Chris and I have ridden to campus together on our bicycles," Machen said.

Ten "Bright Idea Awards" were also handed out to students, faculty and staff with the best plans for sustainability at UF.