UOG Student Researcher presents innovative solution for vape battery waste at G3 Makerspace Science Café

Makerspace

UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant and Guam NSF EPSCoR student research intern Carlo Tapia presented his project during a special Science Café event held at the Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub. Tapia successfully created a power bank charger with the use of old vape batteries, providing a sustainable means of dealing with and reducing the waste.

Tapia successfully created a power bank charger that he can use for his mobile phone with the use of used vape batteries. He presented his work and results during a special Science Café event held at the Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub.

Carlo Tapia, a student intern researcher with the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant (UOG CIS and SG), recently presented his research on converting used vape batteries into functional power bank chargers at a Guam Green Growth (G3) Makerspace Science Café event. The presentation highlighted a potential solution to the growing problem of electronic waste, particularly the disposal of vape batteries, which contain hazardous materials.

Tapia’s research explores the feasibility of repurposing the lithium-ion batteries found in disposable vapes, which often end up in landfills, posing environmental risks. His project focuses on extracting the usable components from these batteries and integrating them into a design for a portable power bank, offering a second life to materials that would otherwise be discarded.

“My angle for this is to bring a bit more awareness to vape batteries, the lithium ion, despite being disposable, can still be used for other things,” said Tapia. “I wanted to focus on power banks because here on Guam we have a lot of typhoons and this idea can help.”

The Science Café event, held at the G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub, provided a platform for Tapia to share his findings with the community and engage in a discussion about sustainable solutions. Attendees included fellow students, faculty, environmental advocates, and members of the public.

“To see the work that our students are doing here at the University of Guam and the improvements the results can help develop for our community is inspiring,” said Austin Shelton Ph.D. the director of the UOG CIS and SG. “Our programs are here to support our local student researchers across their science disciplines and help them develop their work.”

The G3 Makerspace, a hub for innovation and sustainability, provides resources and equipment for individuals and organizations to develop and test sustainable solutions. The Science Café series is one of several initiatives aimed at fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in Guam.

Tapia is also a former Guam NSF EPSCoR student researcher. He participated in the program’s Summer Math Research Experience (SMRE) and recently presented at the National Diversity in STEM conference hosted by the Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) in Phoenix, Arizona.

According to Tapia, his research is ongoing and he hopes to further refine his design and explore the potential for scaling up the process. He expressed his gratitude to the CIS and Sea Grant for their support and mentorship.

January 7, 2025January 7, 2025

UOG and Mactech to hold two-day computer repair workshop

Makerspace

The University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth (G3) Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub will partner with MacTech Guam to host a computer repair workshop. The event aimed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge to repair and maintain their own computers, promoting sustainability and reducing electronic waste.

The workshop will cover a range of topics, including basic troubleshooting, hardware upgrades, and software maintenance. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about common computer problems, how to diagnose them, and practical solutions to fix them. Participants will also learn about the importance of proper computer disposal and the environmental impact of electronic waste.

“We are excited to bring this first-ever workshop to the G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub,” said Austin Shelton Ph.D., the director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, who facilitate the G3 initiative. “Along with Mactech, we hope to reduce the amount of electronic waste on the island, and help people save some money with the skills they will learn from this class.”

The two-day workshop will be held on Friday January 24 from 3:00 to 4:30 PM, and Saturday January 25 from 9 to 10:30 AM. Tickets are $25 total for both days, and participants must attend both days of workshop.

“This is a great opportunity for everyone interested in learning computer repair skills,” said Mactech Guam head technician Jordan Lansang, who will be teaching the class. “This workshop will also help to extend the life of the computer and reduce the amount of waste from the unit. It’s a more sustainable approach, and that’s why this partnership makes so much sense.”

Along with the skills participants will leave the workshop with, they will also be given a $50 gift certificate for Mactech Guam.

G3 Makerspace Coordinator Emily Wendte is looking forward to expanding the growing themes of workshops offered at the Hub.

“We have had some really awesome workshops to promote the circular economy and artisans on the island,” explained Wendte. “We have done weaving, mosaics, glass, plastic recycling wallets, sewing, robotics, tool shop, and equipment classes, and now to move further into the sustainable tech category is a taste of where we are going in the new year.”

To stay updated and to sign up for this and upcoming workshops, visit guamgreengrowth.org and follow @guamgreengrowthmakerspace on Instagram.

August 27, 2024December 31, 2024

Old garments are refreshed and upcycled with screen printing workshop at Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace

Makerspace

Local artist, Roldy Aguero Ablao demonstrates the types of screen printing materials workshop attendees will be using.

A screen printing design is tested on repurposed paper before being put to a garment.

Annania Nauta-Kemp shows off her garment to artist Roldy Aguero Ablao after a screen printing design is affixed.

A workshop attendee ponders placement of a screen printing design on a garment.

A participant of the G3 Makerspace Screen Printing Workshop sets a screen printing stencil on a garment before adding paint.

Attendees of the G3 Circular Economy Makerspace & Innovation Hub's Screen Printing Workshop showcase their finished garments at the conclusion of the event.

A group of aspiring entrepreneurs and artists on Guam recently had the opportunity to learn the art of screen printing at the Guam Green Growth (G3) Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub.

The workshop, held earlier in August, provided participants with hands-on experience in creating custom designs on a variety of materials.

Led by an experienced business owner and screen printer, Roldy Aguerro Ablao, the workshop covered essential techniques of the process. Participants were able to experiment with different types of inks, fabrics, and substrates to create unique designs.

G3 Circular Economy Coordinator Abby Crain organized the workshop and was excited for the opportunity to work with Ablao to show attendees how to extend the life of stuff they already have.

“People got to bring in their own garments that they don’t like anymore or were going to discard and personalize them to breathe new life into them,” said Crain. “They were able to make the old new again by adding designs via screen printing to refresh and upcycle clothes.”

Crain said that the workshop went well. “It was a great workshop and was well attended. The feedback was great. Some of the same participants came back to do the second class because they enjoyed it so much.”

“This is actually my first time doing screen printing! I’m not an artist whatsoever, so that’s why these workshops are so much fun to me! I had so much fun and a lot of the pieces came out better than I was expecting. I was a little worried about the mistakes I made, but everyone has been so encouraging about accepting the mistakes we make and making the most of it,” said Laura Gumbar.

“Everything is about self-expression and everyone here at the G3 Makerspace is so welcoming, so I hope more people come out! Don’t be shy! If you don’t have anyone to go with, you will definitely end up making friends here.”

Workshops are held monthly and September will feature 3D Printing and Flower Printing Classes.

The Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub is committed to supporting local entrepreneurs and fostering a culture of innovation. By offering workshops like this, the hub provides valuable resources and opportunities for individuals to develop their skills and start their own businesses.

For more information about the Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub and upcoming workshops, please visit guamgreengrowth.org or follow the social media pages @guamgreengrowth on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

March 5, 2024December 31, 2024

G3 Makerspace mosaic workshop promotes ‘trash into art’

Makerspace

Mark Murer helps an attendee at the Glass Mosaic Workshop by outlining portions to cut.

Addison Ferguson, attendee of the Glass Mosaics Workshop makes final touches to her art piece

An attendee of the Glass Mosaic Workshop at the G3 Makerspace & Innovation Hub glues pieces of recycled glass to a frame made of upcycled wooden pallet.

A full-class of attendees pose with their finished art pieces with instructors from Murer Mosaics

With the idea of promoting sustainability and art, the Guam Green Growth (G3) Circular Economy Makerspace & Innovation Hub held a glass mosaic workshop during which participants transformed recycled glass and pallets into one-of-a-kind pieces. The workshop was held on Thursday, February 29, at the Chamorro Village.

At least a dozen participants worked under the tutelage of local artists Mark and Andrea Murer, a father-daughter duo working together as business owners for Mark Murer Mosaics.

Although most attendees had little to no experience in working with mosaic art, under the guidance of the Murers , everyone was able to complete their pieces before the end of the night.

G3 Circular Economy Coordinator, Abby Crain was excited to welcome the Murers to the G3 Makerspace.

Crain said, “I think what made it really successful was that it was the first time [a class taught by Murer] was being offered! A lot of people have always loved and admired his work, and this was a chance for them to finally get to participate in that.”

Eventgoers were given step-by-step instructions from the Murers, who did well to encourage and empower the participants.

Morgan Leon Guerrero one of the workshop participants, described her experience.

“The workshop was a lot of fun! I had never done something like it before, so I was a little nervous, but Mark and Andrea guided us every step of the way. It was a great way to spend time with my friends doing something creative! I am excited to participate in more workshops like this one.”

As March unfolds, Crain said the island community can look forward to more workshops curated by the G3 Makerspace. She urged the community not to miss out on opportunities.

“[The Glass Mosaic Workshop] sold out in a matter of hours, so don’t sleep on it. t. We usually post our workshop schedule at the beginning of each month. We really go out of our way to curate the classes and make sure that they have some kind of sustainability and artistic element.”

As for upcoming events, Crain said the community can look forward to workshops this month to celebrate Mes CHamoru or CHamoru Month, with the next workshop showcasing a coconut fiber artist who specializes in basket weaving.

When asked how the G3 Makerspace will engage the community in the coming year, Crain said, “We are here to inspire ways to use what we have on island and to also teach the community new skills so that they can take their artistry, their business, and their interests a little bit further.”

Follow the G3 Makerspace & Innovation Hub on social media accounts @GuamGreenGrowth and @GuamGreenGrowthMakerspace.

December 13, 2023December 31, 2024

Discovering 3D printing at Hagåtña’s G3 Makerspace

Makerspace

Two of the 3D printing machines housed at the Guam Green Growth Circular Economy & Inovation Hub in Hagatña

The polyethylene terephthalate machine (PET), used to make 3D printing fillament

A brid's-eye view of the PET machine with pictured fillament coiled on the left

A 3D printed karabao (water buffalo) created from fillament using recycled plastics

More 3D printed objects, including two karaboa and a replica of the mermaid statue found in Sirena Park in Hagatña, all accomplished using a special 3D scanning phone application

Leading the charge in showcasing the possibilities of 3D printing to the public is the Guam Green Growth (G3) Circular Economy Makerspace & Innovation Hub, located in Chamorro Village in Hagåtña.

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, operates similarly to a conventional printer. Instead of using ink on paper, it builds an object by layering filament—material used in 3D printing—to recreate a 3D scanned object.

Filament can range from materials such as plastics, clay, or even concrete, though the scope of substances used in printing will broaden as the industry continues to develop.

Tim Udo, G3 Makerspace coordinator, who helps teach the introductory classes for 3D printing, explains how this new industry can contribute to a circular economy and a cleaner environment in many ways.

Along with the creation of a machine that turns non-recyclable plastics like polyethylene terephthalate (PET) into filament for 3D printers, the machines at G3 Makerspace can also print objects from polyether ether ketone (PEEK), which, after printing and annealing (heat treatment), has the same strength as steel.

Additionally, G3 Makerspace has another 3D printer specifically for using clay as a filament, which Udo says can be used for building structures or tiles that can further regrow coral.

At the G3 Makerspace 3D Printing Basics Workshop, classes are capped at three participants per class, allowing instructors ample one-on-one time with students.

Although classes generally take place on Wednesday nights during the Chamorro Village night market festivities, Udo welcomes anyone wanting to take classes during the day to speak with him at the G3 Makerspace, and he will work with their schedule.

Additionally, participants can look forward to Udo and other instructors teaching students about G-code, which is a widely used Computer Numerical Control (CNC) and 3D printing language used to communicate ideas to the 3D printing software.

At the end of the class, students will get to print their keychains, whistles, or 3D-printed characters as keepsakes to take home.

With the seemingly endless potential of the 3D printing industry, Udo, a mechanical engineer by trade, imparts some advice for any aspiring engineers regarding the limitations of additive manufacturing.

“If you want to do any kind of engineering, carpentry, or any kind of fabricating work, what you need to have is creativity. As long as you have creativity and interest to learn, you can make anything. [The Makerspace] can help you along the way with technical knowledge and the software, but as long as your mind can think of it, you can create it.”

As classes and activities expand at the G3 Makerspace & Innovation Hub, Tim Udo encourages the public to pay a visit to the shop at Chamorro Village.

“I think it is valuable for people to know that we are open to the public. People can get memberships here either on a monthly or yearly basis and then they can come here and utilize all the machinery we have. You can come and take a class for the laser [engraver], learn how it works, and then start cranking out your own products. The same goes for the CNC and the 3D printer. Come here, and we will teach you how to make all of it.”

Classes take place on Wednesdays during the Chamorro Village Night Market festivities. Participants who are 18 years old and older are welcome to sign up either in person or on the G3 Makerspace’s Instagram page.

October 2, 2023December 31, 2024

G3 Makerspace workshop: Crafting new things from discarded plastic

Makerspace

With the goal of discovering innovative ways to repurpose waste, the Guam Green Growth (G3) Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub organized a plastic fusion workshop this month at CHamoru Village.

During the workshop, Abby Crain, the coordinator of G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub, demonstrated techniques to transform discarded plastic bags into wallets, purses, and pouches.

She explained plastic fusion as a process in which plastic sheets are melded together into a pattern using heat. Crain used specific types of plastic bags (#2, #4, or #5) for each project, along with patterns, parchment paper, and a flat iron as a heat source.

Proper heat application is crucial in plastic fusion, so participants were instructed to follow safety precautions, according to Crain.

At the beginning of the workshop, Phil Cruz, the sustainability coordinator at UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, helped participants understand the necessity of finding alternative uses for plastic waste.

Cruz emphasized that plastic waste not only mars the island’s landscape but also contaminates the oceans. Safeguarding the environment is paramount for an island community like Guam, as ocean-bound waste can infiltrate the food chain.

Plastics degrade into microplastics, which are ingested by fish. When these contaminated fish are consumed by other marine animals and humans, microplastics travel up the food chain, posing a threat to ecosystems and human health alike.

Moreover, culturally significant and endangered marine animals like the green and hawksbill sea turtles often mistake plastic bags for food since they resemble jellyfish.

“Not only is it (plastic waste) an eyesore but it also goes into our ocean. As an island community, we must do our utmost to protect our environment,” Cruz said.

While plastic pollution is a common concern in the community, Guam also faces challenges in proper waste management and recycling due to the global collapse of the plastic recycling industry in 2020. Consequently, shipping plastics off the island is no longer viable, according to Cruz.

“Therefore, the island community must find creative solutions,” he added.

The concept of Zero Waste becomes crucial in this context, involving the reduction of landfill waste by being mindful of consumption and waste generation, according to Cruz.

With this in mind, workshops are held at the G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub to repurpose discarded plastics, shaping them into new and useful items.

Additionally, the hub utilizes precious plastic machines to break down specific plastics and mold them into innovative products.

These initiatives reflect Guam’s commitment to addressing its plastic problem while actively involving the community in sustainable practices.

September 8, 2023December 31, 2024

Plastics drive kicks off at G3 Makerspace and Innovation Hub

Makerspace

Every Wednesday from 3pm to 8pm is the dedicated time for people to drop off their
clean #2 and #5 plastic containers at House 114 (formerly the Chocolate Factory).

These plastic donations will become part of the circular economy diverting waste from the landfill that can be recycled into products with Makerspace machines that transform the plastics into new and useful products.

Make a difference and become part of the circular economy.

Reduce, Reuse, and
Recycle!

For more information, please call (671) 683-7715.

July 28, 2023December 31, 2024

G3 Makerspace hosts Lil Sprouts camp with GSC

Makerspace

The Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub hosted students of the Guahan Sustainable Culture Lil Sprouts Academy this month.

The group was welcomed into the lessons by the Hub team and were introduced the concept of the circular economy.

“It is always great to give the children an explanation of what the circular economy is and how important it is when planning for our island’s future,” said Joseph Certeza from the G3 Hub. “They are excited to learn more and how they can help our island be more sustainable.”

The group of over twenty students also took part in various activities including Mawar Tangrams, an Organic Exercise and a full tour of the makerspace.

During the tour the group got up close and personal with the Hub’s wide array of tools and machines that have helped many business owners, students and community members create sustainable products for sale or projects.

The Lil Sprouts Academy is a summer program hosted by the Guahan Sustainable Culture organization headquartered at the CHamoru Village in Hagatna, also the home of the Hub.

June 13, 2023December 31, 2024

Gallery: CHamoru Village cleanup work by G3CC

Makerspace

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.

May 6, 2023December 31, 2024

G3 unveils Art Corps, lineup features emerging and seasoned artists

Makerspace

The Guam Green Growth (G3) initiative and the University of Guam launched their inaugural Art Corps program at the G3 Makerspace and Innovation Hub. The G3 Art Corps aims to provide a platform for artistic expression while promoting island sustainability.

For the program’s first cohort, G3 selected eight talented artists to collectively design, plan, and execute public murals on Guam. These murals will highlight the island’s journey towards achieving sustainability by 2030, as outlined by the G3 Action Framework and the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The chosen artists include Ariel Dimalanta, Kamaka Aquino, Frank “Kie” Susuico, Corina Benavente, Baptist Bell, Ha’ani Bettis, Geraldine Datuin, and Lucille Ronquillo.

Dimalanta has decades of experience as an artist, sculptor, and publisher. While semi-retired, he decided to join the Art Corps to make a difference. “It is time to give back to the community,” he said.

Each artist will receive a stipend in exchange for participating in capacity-building activities and collaborating with the team to create the murals. For two years, two cohorts will paint 17 murals to disseminate the message of sustainability and sustainable development to a broader audience.

UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton stated that art is crucial for community engagement. “Today, we are bringing something new to the table; we have previously talked about Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, Technology, Engineering, and Math before. That is about figuring out the science of our natural resources. But now we add an A in between. Art is important because this is the way that we can connect with our community.”

Meanwhile, UOG President Thomas Krise emphasized that the murals would encourage people to consider their environmental and sustainability impact. “This is another great G3 initiative,” he added.

Lt. Governor Josh Tenorio said that the project engages people and draws attention to the natural resources and beauty of the island, especially for younger generations.

The G3 Art Corps aligns with several UN SDGs, including Goal 4, which seeks to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all, and Goal 11, which focuses on making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.

The Governor’s Educational Assistance and Youth Empowerment Grant [Project Award S425H210004] provides support for the G3 Art Corps program.

The UOG Center for Island Sustainability was awarded $840,311.00 for the Guam Green Growth Education and G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub program as part of the Governor’s Education Assistance and Youth Empowerment Grant Program.

About G3

The UOG Center for Island Sustainability facilitates Guam Green Growth, or G3, in cooperation with the Office of the Governor of Guam and the G3 Working Group, whose members represent all sectors of society. With the UN SDGs and G3 Action Framework as a guide, G3 develops tangible solutions to sustainability challenges and contributes to a green economy for the island region.