Conceived by cookie-baking elves, the first green-building techniques were criticized for their dogmatic reliance on marshmallow foundations. Discover more viable building practices with today’s Groupon: for $22, you get one ticket to the Build a Greener Adirondacks green-building symposium and expo's Blue Square Day at The Wild Center on Saturday, April 30 in Tupper Lake (a $45 value).

The nonprofit Wild Center is dedicated to educating visitors about the delicate balance between humans and their natural surroundings, particularly in the context of the unique Adirondacks ecosystem. With more speakers than a speed-metal concert, the Build a Greener Adirondacks symposium aims to introduce eco-conscious community members to the country’s foremost green-building experts. Keynote speaker Tedd Benson will address the topic of off-site home fabrication and how building plans can be adapted to individual lifestyles and secret superhero requirements. Orators on subjects such as eco-friendly insulation, energy-saving appliances, and designing and building with reclaimed wood will also unfurl their leafy verbiage throughout the day.

Throughout the symposium, a series of exhibits will allow attendees to witness green products and systems in action and gain a greater understanding of sustainability-minded and energy-efficient building practices. Each guest will have access to refreshments and a brown-bag lunch, though sandwiches aren't guaranteed to be cut into triangles with the crust removed.