FARMINGTON -- On Saturday, the town of Farmington will join the world in an international day of environmental awareness with a target number: 350.

In the mid-1980s, a NASA scientist named James Hansen offered a simple goal to sustain the planet: 350 parts per million of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is the most we can emit without destroying the earth.

Local resident Jeremy Smith decided to do something by participating in an international day of awareness.

"Towns, cities, schools, places of worship, and other institutions around the world are sponsoring events to raise awareness about energy issues and climate change," Smith said.

In Farmington, a full day is planned to focus attention on combating climate change, reducing energy use, saving money and celebrating the natural riches of Maine.

On Friday and Saturday, volunteer artists at the UMF Student Center will create 350 T-shirts for visitors who bring a new or clean used shirt. Saturday will include a free morning Community Energy Challenge Workshop.

The workshop's leader will be Dr. Charles Wing, formerly a NASA engineer and a physics professor.

Aubuchon Hardware will offer free electronics recycling at their store on Route 4 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., including televisions, computers, monitors and other electronic devices.

The UMF Conservation Day Fair, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., will include exhibits and demonstrations on weatherization and sustainable home design, affordable renewable-energy sources for the home, and low-impact living. At 1 p.m., William Bonsall will speak at UMF's North Dining Hall.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the campus efforts to recycle, reduce and reuse all types of materials. Starting at 1 p.m., children 4 to 12 can make Halloween masks from recycled materials in the lobby of the Education Center. At 4 p.m., visitors can be part of an outdoor video shoot in the High Street commuter parking lot.

"Wear a green shirt or jacket," Smith said.

From 5 to 7 p.m., the Congregational Church will host a community potluck supper, with drop-off for dishes starting at 2 p.m. A free concert, starting at 7:30 p.m. in Nordica Auditorium, will end the day.

For more information, e-mail nteel@localnet.com or intern@ uwtva.org.