WEEK IN REVIEW: Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps learns about the waste system on Guam

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Members of the University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC) recently dedicated an intensive week to understanding the complexities of waste management on the island, collaborating with industry leader Guahan Waste Control. This immersive experience is a critical component of the G3 Conservation Corps program, which aims to cultivate the next generation of environmental leaders and a skilled workforce for Guam’s emerging green economy.

Throughout the week, the cohort delved into the pressing waste issues facing Guam, from the Layon Landfill’s operational intricacies to the challenges of recycling and the pervasive problem of illegal dumping. Guahan Waste Control, a key player in the island’s waste management sector, provided the corps members with an invaluable behind-the-scenes look at their operations, including their materials sorting facility.

G3CC member Eyana Pereda was shocked, “As much as it was a great experience and a fun team to work with, the whole time I couldn’t shake the bewilderment of being surrounded by so much wastefulness.”

Pereda believes that the eye-opening experience is something everyone Guam needs to have.

“You hear about these ongoing problems regarding our waste all the time, but to actually come eye to eye and in some cases literally be neck deep in it was definitely something I think everyone needs to experience if we want any real change within our community and culture around how we handle our trash,” she said. “[It is] not just the amount [of trash] we produce, but the care and effort we put into sorting it the right way before it even arrives at the waste center.”

During their time with Guahan Waste Control, the G3 Conservation Corps members learned about the logistical and economic hurdles of recycling on an island, the importance of proper waste segregation, and the environmental impacts of different waste streams. Discussions also likely covered Guam’s ambitious goals towards a circular economy and zero waste, as outlined in various local initiatives.

Guam continues to grapple with significant waste challenges, including a high volume of food waste, the environmental legacy of the now-closed Ordot Dump, and the ongoing need to extend the lifespan of the Layon Landfill. Initiatives like the G3 Conservation Corps are vital in developing local expertise and fostering a community-wide commitment to addressing these issues.

The hands-on training received by the corps members is designed to prepare them for careers in sustainability-focused fields. By engaging directly with organizations like Guahan Waste Control, they gain not only technical knowledge but also a deeper appreciation for the collaborative efforts required to protect Guam’s fragile environment.

August 14, 2023December 31, 2024

UOG Celebrates Third G3 Conservation Corps Graduation

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The Guam Green Growth (G3) initiative at the University of Guam celebrated the graduation of its third conservation corps cohort on Friday, August 11, at the Sinajana Community Arts Hall.

The innovative workforce development program is designed to prepare the island for the emerging green economy. Launched in collaboration with the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and UOG Global Learning and Engagement in 2021, the G3 Conservation Corps program is a full-time training experience spanning five months each year.

Participants received instruction on a wide range of sustainability topics, covering areas such as agriculture, aquaculture, island beautification, invasive species removal, reforestation, circular economy, ocean conservation, and renewable energy.

The latest batch of G3 Conservation Corps members who successfully completed the comprehensive program include Maria Balbin, Jace Blas, Zeriah Blas, Cassie Bordallo, Michael Herbert, Michael Jude Hernandez, Connor Law, Laura Layan, Javier Mercado, Ciara Taijeron, Michael Torres, and Elisa Rose Padilla.

“We’ve learned a lot here and from all of our partners,” said Balbin, who served as corps crew supervisor.

Also at the graduation, UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez hailed the graduates as conservation corps warriors. “You are a special group of conservation leaders. You represent us as ambassadors to our youth and to members of our community through your experiences…Congratulations! We look forward to seeing you do amazing things.”

Governor Lou Leon Guerrero also commended the graduates. “The 12 of you are very significant to the conservation of our island. You have gone through an experience that we will probably never go through,” she said.

Meanwhile, Austin Shelton, UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant director, highlighted the unique experience of the third batch of conservation corps. He said the process prepared the corps for the environmental challenges that are occurring in the region and the rest of the world.

“This season was a little bit different. We had an unexpected typhoon, and we had to do things differently. You got on-the-job training for what is becoming the new reality. Climate change is here, and we are seeing an increasing frequency of storms and rising sea levels,” he said.

Shelton also mentioned the impactful multiplier effect generated by the G3 Conservation Corps program, especially in partnership development. For example, he said the program facilitated the establishment of the G3 Art Corps and the newly formed G3 Kupu Corps collaboration with Kupu, a Hawai’i’-based youth leadership development program, now providing eight additional year-long corps positions in Guam and CNMI.

He also underscored G3’s ongoing commitment to expand the movement. He said current efforts of the program attracted new federal funding, enabling the future development of G3 partnerships across Micronesia and the Pacific.

August 7, 2023December 31, 2024

Making a difference: G3 Conservation Corps cleans up local school

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The Guam Green Growth (G3) Conservation Corps recently lent a helping hand to the island’s Southern community by joining forces with volunteers to clean up M.U. Lujan Elementary School in Yona on Wednesday, August 2. This cleanup marked their final volunteer effort before they graduate from the program later this month.

The team worked together to give the school a fresh makeover. Laura Layan, a member of the G3 Conservation Corps, shared their efforts, “We had a team sorting out things. Another team is also painting and helping the staff at the school,” she said.

Layan is the first G3 Conservation Corps member from Yap. After graduating with a major in tropical science, she wants to give back to the community by applying what she learned from university and from the conservation corps program.

Another corps member, Michael Herbert, highlighted his involvement in preparing the school for the upcoming school year, “Today we are assisting with the opening of the school by helping with debris removal, painting so the school can be ready for inspection.”

Herbert’s dedication to conservation and environmental awareness shone through as he shared his experiences as a corps member, “I’ve learned about farming, aquaculture, and different things, like separating different household goods. I’ve also learned about marketing and the need to bring in more people for the circular economy, the green economy.”

After the program, Herbert wants to go back to school and become a sea turtle biologist. “Because I am very passionate about marine life and turtles,” he said.

Cassie Bordallo, another active corps member, expressed her thoughts on the conservation corps experience, “It’s been amazing. It’s been hard but still amazing to be part of it (G3 Conservation Corps). It opened my eyes to things that I hadn’t thought about before.”

The G3 Conservation Corps, consisting of twelve members, underwent comprehensive training over the past five months. They learned about various sustainability topics, such as agriculture, aquaculture, recycling, and renewable energy. The program equips these young eco-enthusiasts with valuable skills and knowledge to contribute to Guam’s emerging green economy.

July 12, 2023December 31, 2024

Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps hunt for invasive brown tree snake

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In June, the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3) took on the most notorious invasive species on island, the Brown Treesnake (BTS). No matter what their level of comfort for handling snakes, they all enthusiastically entered the classroom at USGS (United States Geological Survey) in Ritidian and got down to the business of learning about BTS.

USGS biologists delivered a PowerPoint presentation with photographs of snakes in various species of trees and tangled vines to help the G3 group hone their BTS search image. Biologists Charlene Hopkins and Marijoy Viernes expertly answered numerous questions from G3 participants. Afterwards, they brought out colorful rubber snakes to allow everyone to practice handling skills and field euthanasia stress free. Then, the live snakes were released from their snake bags and things got very animated!

Divided into two groups, participants got hands-on experience in using a snake stick as well as how to safely pick up snakes in a controlled environment. It was difficult for the snakes to get traction on the shiny, waxed floors, but for some first-time wranglers it still was a challenge.

As the sun went down, it was time to head outside to search in the wilds of Harmon! Dividing into three teams with a USGS biologist leading each, everyone began walking slowly and purposefully along the roadside near Two-Lovers Point meticulously searching the vegetation for snakes. The extra-bright headlamps provided by USGS made it easier to see the shine on their sinuous bodies as they slid through the trees.

One team was successful in capturing seven snakes with one snake each from the other two teams. In total, nine snakes were captured and euthanized. Viernes said of the G3 team, “They were wonderful to work with. Everyone in my group during the search had many good questions about BTS, which showed their interest.”

Feedback from G3 participants was positive. “After the training, I felt more educated on the topic of invasive snakes in Guam, learning there are no deadly venomous snakes here. My level of comfort for handling snakes is much higher now and I am better at spotting them,” said Chansey Rios.

Ryan Perez stated, “The training was very good. I have killed snakes before when they have come around my house, but now I know how to handle them properly and humanely.”

This G3 cohort continues to make advancements toward a healthy, sustainable environment for Guam.

July 4, 2023December 31, 2024

G3 Conservation Corps digs into Biosecurity with the DoAg

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The Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps dug in and learned about protecting our island and our resources as they spent the week with the biosecurity team at the Department of Agriculture.

The members of the corps got a closer look at the invasive species that have made their way to our island and continue to cause destruction in the local and native landscape including the infamous Rhino Beetle and the Brown Tree Snake.

For many, this was the first time they were given this crash course in biosecurity and had the opportunity to see the pests up close and personal.

The team learned about prevention of invasive species, how to collect them and how the Department tracks traps and deals with creatures caught in them.

June 13, 2023December 31, 2024

Gallery: CHamoru Village cleanup work by G3CC

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The Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps joined the CHamoru Village community in the cleanup efforts at the Hagatna landmark.

The group helped remove blown down trees and shrubbery along with other debris that blew into the iconic area.

CHamoru Village is also the home to the Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub.

June 10, 2023December 31, 2024

Gallery: G3CC assists at the debris station

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The Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps volunteered alongside the Guam Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corps of Engineers at the debris and waste collection site in Tiyan, Barrigada.

The site collected household debris from Typhoon Mawar as residents continued cleanup efforts following the storm.

Members of the Corps assisted in check-in of residents, offering directions to proper drop-off points and classification of debris.

They also assisted community members with offloading their debris at the site.

The Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps volunteered at the site for the whole week.

“(The Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps) were very helpful. They were assisting the manamko and other people with their dumping,” said Barrigada resident Ryan Shayne.

January 10, 2023December 31, 2024

UOG Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps recruiting 12

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The University of Guam is recruiting for the third cohort of the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC).

The five-month workforce development program is looking for 12 new members.

The group will be involved in weekly modules that will help prepare them for a career in the emerging green economy.

Focus areas will include renewable energy, zero waste, watershed restoration, endangered species preservation, agriculture, aquaculture, circular economy, invasive species removal, and more.

“We are excited to begin the third season of the G3 Conservation Corps,” said Director Austin J. Shelton of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant. “This program is preparing our people to enter the growing field of green jobs and help create a sustainable future for our island at the same time.”

According to program coordinator Phillip Cruz, G3 Conservation Corps gives members in-depth and in-person exposure to sustainable disciplines and work areas.

“G3CC members will literally get their hands dirty, and their feet wet, with the various activities in conservation and sustainability across the island,” said Cruz. “Experts will mentor the cohort each week, giving them hands-on experience in the various fields.”

Along with professional development opportunities, the corps can also earn 10 continuing education units (CEU) from the University of Guam’s Global Learning and Engagement program for every 10 hours worked, up to 80 for the entire five-month program.

According to Cruz, of the 12 positions available, 10 are for Conservation Corps leaders who will receive a bi-weekly stipend of $1,300 and two are for Conservation Corps supervisors who will receive a bi-weekly stipend of $1,500.

Interested individuals can apply here with applications being accepted from Jan. 11 to Feb. 1, 2023.

August 19, 2022December 31, 2024

Guam Green Growth celebrates Conservation Corps graduates

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Members of the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps capped off their five months of full-time hands-on training through a graduation ceremony held on Wednesday, August 18, 2022, at the Ricardo J. Bordallo Governor’s Complex (Adelup) in Hagåtña. The ceremony recognized its second batch of conservation corps graduates since the members were recruited in March 2022.

The graduates include Jenelle Aguilar, Rejean Benavente, Johnny Borja, Jacob Concepcion, Remilou Hannigan, Dulce Imbo, Wade Kitalong, Ryan Perez, Christopher Quichocho, Hila’an San Nicolas, and Tre Starr.

Over the course of the last five months, the cohort gained experience through various aspects of sustainability such as agriculture and aquaculture, island beautification, invasive species removal, reforestation, circular economy and recycling, and renewable energy.

Members of the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps capped off their five months of full-time hands-on training through a graduation ceremony held on Wednesday, August 18, 2022, at the Ricardo J. Bordallo Governor’s Complex (Adelup) in Hagåtña.

The ceremony recognized its second batch of conservation corps graduates since the members were recruited in March 2022.

The graduates include Jenelle Aguilar, Rejean Benavente, Johnny Borja, Jacob Concepcion, Remilou Hannigan, Dulce Imbo, Wade Kitalong, Ryan Perez, Christopher Quichocho, Hila’an San Nicolas, and Tre Starr.

Over the course of the last five months, the cohort gained experience through various aspects of sustainability such as agriculture and aquaculture, island beautification, invasive species removal, reforestation, circular economy and recycling, and renewable energy.

“What you’ve done is tremendous,” said UOG President Thomas W. Krise as he addressed the graduates. “You’ve inspired other people just by your efforts. In terms of the cleanups, when you see somebody on the road and improving the road, it deters you from throwing something away as you drive by. You’re helping to change the feeling of how people treat the environment. You’ve done tremendous work and I’m very proud of you.”

During the graduation, Austin Shelton, director of the Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant program, highlighted the cohort’s contributions to the community.

“You have this training. You have this awareness and skills that you’ve built over these past five months that you can take into any career that you go into. That’s a very powerful force and you’re a part of this movement and we’re very proud to have you as part of G3. We’d love to continue to support you in any way that you may need in the future,” said Shelton.

From March 14 to August 18, the G3 Conservation Corps:

Collected and recycled 55,618 aluminum cans;
Planted 1,705 food crops and pruned 2,986 trees;
Built 81 feet of erosion control devices;
Removed 321 white goods and bulky waste;

Removed 19 brown tree snakes, 40 invasive frogs, and 27 gallons of invasive algae;
Completed 15 roadside cleanups and 5 beach cleanups;
Participated in 2 painting projects.

During the ceremony, Lt. Governor Joshua Tenorio commended the cohort for their service to the island.

“The five months you were able to embark and work together collectively not only has benefited yourself, but it has also benefited the people of Guam. For that, I want to thank all of you for your individual role. I hope you’ll be able to maintain that advocacy through your work,” said Tenorio.

Dulce Imbo, a Conservation Corps graduate, was elected as the cohort’s representative to celebrate their completion of the program.

“Sustainability starts within our own lives and habits by knowing and understanding our own story and truth,” said Imbo. “The past five months has allowed us to deepen our own understanding and reflect on who we are as individuals and use our own healing and as a way to propel ourselves in the work that we do.”

About Guam Green Growth

Guam Green Growth (G3) is the island’s most comprehensive public-private partnership created to achieve a sustainable future. Aligned with the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals, G3 cultivates an ecosystem for transformative action to achieve our island’s sustainable, prosperous, and equitable future. UOG facilitates the island-wide initiative in cooperation with the  Office of the Governor of Guam and the 99 members of the G3 Working Group representing all sectors of our society.   

G3 first launched the Conservation Corps in partnership with UOG Center for Island Sustainability and UOG Global Learning and Engagement department to establish a foundation for workforce development to support an emerging green economy in June 2021.

August 1, 2022August 1, 2022

G3CC teaches recycling along Liberation Day parade route

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The Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps crafted recycling bins and distributed them to parade goers as the Liberation Day parade returned after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic.

The Corps distributed the bins free of charge as families fired up the grills and gathered to celebrate the 78th anniversary of Guam’s liberation from occupation and the end of World War 2.

During the parade, the group made their way up and down Marine Corps Drive and assisted families, collecting aluminum cans that will be donated to the IRecycle program to raise money for local schools.

“I think this is a great idea,” said Michelle Perez who attended the parade with her family. “(The Conservation Corps) even showed the kids what kind of cans were recyclable.”

Perez was just one of the many people who participated in the recycling efforts and used the bins provided by the second cohort of the workforce development program.

According to UOG Center for Island Sustainability’s sustainability coordinator Phillip Cruz, the Corps collected dozens of large trash bags of aluminum cans that were diverted from the landfill and will make their way to school bins to help raise funds for student activities.

“I hope the hard work of the Conservation Corps goes a long way to not only help get some of the cans out of the landfill, but also inspire people to continue recycling,” said Cruz. “The families were able to keep the bins we made and hopefully they will continue using them at their homes.”

If community members would like to donate cans and help recycle, they can deliver them to the Guam Green Growth recycling bins at Mayor’s offices or in IRecycle bins at participating schools.