POTSDAM, N.Y. -- The latest fashion trend at Clarkson University? Garbage bags. Members of the Environmental Conservation Organization have been carrying the bags since Monday to see just how much non-recyclable garbage they generate.

"If you're not recycling it, you're carrying it with you instead of putting it in a trash can. Just to demonstrate how much we consume on a weekly basis," said Madison Quinn, the ECO President.

That includes non-recyclable containers and leftover food, as well as some things you might not think about.

"A lot of times we don't keep track of small things like napkins and straws, and I was really surprised at how many I use," said ECO member Mady Padasak.

The students say they have gotten some strange glances carrying their garbage bags around campus, but they say that just gives them an opportunity to strike up a conversation about the importance of taking care of the environment.

"I get weird looks, but everybody seems to understand after I explain it," said Bridget Murray.

"Lots of looks and some questions, but it also provides the opportunity to kind of talk about recycling verses throwing things away," said Quinn.

And getting the word out is exactly what they're hoping to do.

"It's certainly an issue. A lot of people just don't recycle. They don't think to have a separate recycling bin in their dorm. They don't really think about it. It's not that they don't want to recycle, it just doesn't occur to them as a principle," said Michael Jahne.

The students say they're pleased to be able to make others a little more aware of the environment.

They say this is an experiment they'd like to try again in the future, and next time they'd like to get students who are less environmentally conscious involved so they can see how much trash they generate.