AIKEN --- Going green has become the energy-saving battle cry of those focused on protecting the environment.

The Clemson University Cooperative Extension office in Aiken has picked up that battle cry.

The youth development program of the Cooperative Extension Service is organizing the Solid Green 4-H Club for ages 5-19.

"The Solid Green 4-H Club is part of our healthy lifestyle curriculum," said Kristi Schlegel, the 4-H youth development agent. "We intend to learn about water quality, composting in the garden, doing some litter pickup, healthy eating and energy savings."

The club will start off teaching environmental issues the kids can tackle, such as composting, littering and stormwater drainage.

The club's activities will focus on community service, leadership, public speaking and fun.

Ms. Schlegel said that encouraging a healthy lifestyle in youths is important because those are the lessons and habits they will carry with them the rest of their lives.

"We are seeing so many problems with obesity and eating disorders and not having appropriate exercise every day," she said. "Helping kids to practice and learn and find out about healthy situations is something we've always done in 4-H."

The Solid Green 4-H Club's first meeting will be Friday at 10 a.m. at 1555 Richland Ave. E. in Aiken.

To learn more about the club or to sign up, call Ms. Schlegel at (803) 649-6297, ext. 113, or e-mail her at kschlgl@clemson.edu.