Lansing | Heritage Middle School students anxiously awaited the arrival of a multicolored environmental machine Wednesday morning.

A painted school bus pulled into the parking lot, ready to aid fifth-graders in their quest for green knowledge.

Cook-Illinois Corp., a company that operates school buses that run on biodiesel fuel, encouraged students to join the Clean Air Club by learning about how to live a more ecofriendly life.

"Our oil supply will last until 2045," said Geoffrey Watkins, the on board instructor. "That's not so far from now." Students lined up through the seatless bus and examined the displays. One display explained the need to use biodiesel fuel, since oil is running out.

"Corn and soybeans will last longer," Watkins said. "We can grow this right here in Illinois."

Watkins showed the students ways they could help the environment and save energy. He suggested car pooling, tree planting, turning off lights, walking or riding a bike, using renewable fuels and recycling.

Patti Chiaramonte, a fifth grade special education teacher, said the students were always interested in the environment, but the bus tour made them more aware.

"I'm very green myself," she said. "The kids are really into it. We recycle together. The kids worry about the animals and are concerned about the polar bears not having enough ice."

More information on the Clean Air Club can be found at CleanAirClub.net.