UOG Interns Showcase Innovation in Sustainability at Green Growth Hub

Two University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant (UOG CIS & Sea Grant) interns concluded their terms at the Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub with presentations highlighting innovative approaches to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Ian Gaza and Napu Blas, both interns with the UOG CIS & Sea Grant Research Education and Extension Fellowship (REEF) program, demonstrated projects that exemplify the creative problem-solving needed to address environmental challenges facing island communities.

Gaza, who is currently continuing his work towards an engineering degree, developed a robot during his internship, showcasing the potential for technological innovation in sustainability applications at the Makerspace facility.

Blas, who currently attends school at Dartmouth University focused his efforts on plastic recycling initiatives, working alongside Justin Cruz to transform recycled plastics into materials used to refurbish school desks. The project demonstrates a practical application of circular economy principles, giving new life to waste materials while addressing needs in Guam’s educational infrastructure.

The presentations marked the culmination of the interns’ work at the hub, which serves as a center for sustainable innovation and hands-on learning in environmental technology and circular economy practices.

The REEF program provides students with opportunities to gain practical experience in sustainability-focused projects while contributing to community-based environmental solutions.

Both interns’ projects reflect the growing emphasis on combining innovation, education, and environmental responsibility to build more sustainable communities across the Pacific region.