Guam to engage in UN Small Island Developing States Conference (SIDS4)

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The Local2030 Islands Network will host its 3rd Leaders’ Summit at the Small Island Developing States Conference (SIDS4) in Antigua and Barbuda on May 29, 2024. The event will build upon previous leader meetings at the UN General Assembly and Our Ocean Conference in Palau. Island heads of state and dignitaries from developed and developing island economies will gather in a peer-to-peer setting, fostering collaborative discussions on shared priorities, action plans, technical requirements, available resources, and collaborative opportunities on shared sustainable development and climate action goals in local and culturally contextualized approaches.

Guam is a founding member of the Local2030 Islands Network. The US island territory implements principles of the network through Guam Green Growth, a comprehensive public-private initiative advancing the 17 U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Micronesia Conservation Trust and Micronesia Challenge are sponsoring Guam leadership participation at SIDS4. Lieutenant Governor of Guam Joshua F. Tenorio will serve as the moderator of the roundtable discussion during the Local2030 Islands Network Leaders’ Summit. Participants will include U.S. Department of Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, Republic of Palau President Surrangel Whipps Jr., and Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne.

“Islands are on the frontlines of climate change impact. Engaging with fellow island nation and territory leaders at SIDS4 is a valuable opportunity to continue our collective push toward a sustainable global future,” said Lt. Governor Joshua Tenorio. “Our work through Guam Green Growth is recognized globally as a bright spot among islands for sustainable development. We have much to share and much to learn at this U.N. convening for islands.”

Lt. Governor Tenorio will also deliver key remarks during the Global Island Partnership (GLISPA) strategic high-level reception during SIDS4 on behalf of GLISPA Leader, Governor Lourdes Leon Guerrero. The purpose of this event is to catalyze significant new leadership, commitments, and partnerships toward achieving SDGs specific to islands, with a special focus on conservation and sustainability. It will be an opportunity to announce new and substantial commitments toward building resilient and sustainable island communities, including:

Launch of new 2030 GLISPA Strategy
Announcements on Micronesia Challenge 2030, Caribbean Challenge Initiative and others.

Lt Governor Tenorio will speak to the significant progress made in the Micronesia Challenge since it was founded in 2006, The Micronesia Challenge, launched by 5 Micronesian Leaders (FSM, RMI, Palau, CNMI, Guam) with a goal of effectively conserving at least 30% of the near-shore marine resources and 20% of the terrestrial resources across Micronesia by 2020 has leveraged USD 82 million for conservation efforts. It has placed over 70 new areas under conservation across all jurisdictions, and there has been an improvement in science-to-management decision-making with 20 new fisheries management policies enacted based on marine data. It has also led to over 70 management plans or climate change adaptation plans developed and 65 socio-economic assessments completed.

Dr. Austin Shelton, Local2030 Islands Network Steering Committee Member will join Tenorio in Guam’s engagements at SIDS4. Shelton serves as the director of the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, as well as the Guam Green Growth Steering Committee Co-Chair. “We have important lessons to share with other islands through our progress tracked on the Guam Green Growth Dashboard. We also will learn innovations from others to bring back home and accelerate our work,” Shelton said. “I am looking forward to strengthening our partnerships with GLISPA, the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme, Blue Planet Alliance, and others to increase opportunities for our island communities.”

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May 24, 2024December 31, 2024

Guam Green Growth Kupu Corps welcomes four new members in 2024

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Guam Green Growth Kupu Corps project coordinator, Annania Nauta-Kemp, addresses a crowd at a G3 Kupu Corps event

Davina Artero, a continuing Outreach & Extension Assistant for G3 Kupu Corps, shares the impact being a part of the G3 Kupu Corps has had on her life with an audience

The Guam Green Growth (G3) Kupu Corps welcomes four new members to the program this year, making for a steady increase in membership since its inception in January 2023.

Joining the G3 Kupu Corps this year are Joan Tomokane who will be hosted by the American Memorial Park (US National Park Service) in Saipan; Lawrence Lizama, who will be hosted by the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant; and lastly, Joshua Artuz and Tatiana Ananich, both of whom will be hosted by the US Fish and Wildlife Service’s Guam National Wildlife Refuge.

The G3 Kupu Corps is a collaboration between G3 and the Kupu Conservation Leadership Development Program (CLDP) which aims to empower young professionals through education and training relative to careers within the emerging green economy.

Kupu is Hawai’i’s largest non-profit organization which helps to provide entry-level, hands-on experience to young individuals interested in working in conservation.

Although only in its second year since the program’s start, the G3 Kupu Corps has welcomed nine members to the fold, with three members recruited in 2024.

Annania Kemp, G3 Conservation Corps and Kupu Corps project coordinator, shares how the program has grown within this year alone.

“We’ve grown our host sites by two this year adding the UOG CIS/SG’s Aquaculture team as one and the US Fish and Wildlife Guam National Wildlife Refuge as the other,” said Kemp.

“Therefore, we’ve grown our number of members as well.”

With G3 Kupu Corps members working with their assigned host sites, Kemp says each member will have the opportunity to garner work experience needed to eventually transition into educational or career opportunities within conservation.

“The goal of the program is to prepare individuals for the growing green economy and get them either into school with the AmeriCorps education award they receive after completing the program or into a career in conservation after they graduate from the program,” said Kemp.

Over six to eleven months, G3 Kupu Corps members will work with personnel at their assigned host sites, gathering experience and acquiring skills to ease the transition from the program to career opportunities parallel to their skill set.

As G3 Kupu Corps members work alongside their assigned host sites, Kemp has high hopes for each team member once the program ends.

“We hope for the members to either utilize their education award to go to school in conservation to further their career in conservation or jump into the workforce right away with all the lessons and skills they’ve learned with their host sites throughout their term and start their conservation career.”

According to Kemp, there are many incentives for people interested in conservation work to join the G3 Kupu Corps program.

“There are so many benefits that come from this program like the education award, the trainings and possible certifications you can receive, the competitive living allowance, health insurance, eligibility-based child care, eligibility-based student loan forbearance, and really the hands-on learning and experiences in conservation without needing a background or education in it to start!”

For more information about the G3 Kupu Corps, follow G3 on social media or visit guamgreengrowth.org.

March 11, 2024December 31, 2024

UOG’s 4th conservation corps boasts diverse lineup

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Members of the 4th cohort of the Guam Green Growth (G3) Conservation Corps hold signs representing the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals. They are joined by UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton, Ph.D., Lt. Gov. Joshua Tenorio, Senior Vice President and Provost Sharleen Santos Bamba, and UOG Global Learning and Engagement Director Carlos Taitano, MBA.

Members of the 4th cohort of the Guam Green Growth (G3) Conservation Corps pledge their commitment to protect the environment and promote sustainability at an event launching the new members on Tuesday, February 27th, at the UOG Global Learning and Engagement Building.

Guam Green Growth (G3) Conservation Corps member Hannah Perez, with a background in human resources, shares her motivation for joining the program at an event launching the new members on Tuesday, February 27th, at the UOG Global Learning and Engagement Building.

Guam Green Growth (G3) Conservation Corps member Tristan Quintanilla, a policy analyst for four years, shares his motivation for joining the program at an event launching the new members on Tuesday, February 27th, at the UOG Global Learning and Engagement Building.

What do an accountant, former on-air personality, architect, and a human resources professional have in common?

They are passionate about the future of our island and entered the newest cohort of the Guam Green Growth (G3) Conservation Corps, a workforce development program by the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, and the G3 initiative.

Now on its 4^th cycle, the program introduced its 12 new members on Tuesday, February 27, at the UOG Global Learning and Engagement Building.

Addressing the new G3 Conservation Corps, UOG Senior Vice President and Provost Sharleen Santos Bamba, Ph.D. said, “You represent the next generation of environmental leaders. Your enthusiasm commitment, and thirst for knowledge inspire us all. The next five months will be a journey of discovery, hard work, and profound personal growth.”

Most members of the 4th cohort come from industries outside the environmental and conservation sectors. Some of them have already established careers in their respective fields but are interested in exploring opportunities within the emerging green economy. 

The members of the new G3 Conservation Corps are:

Nate Aguon (Barrigada)
Thomas Benavente (CNMI, Tamuning)
Makeo Blas (Mangilao)
Telel Blesam (Palau)
Jaevynn Cruz (Talo’fo’fo)
Rico Lizama (Yona)
Beato Manglona (Tamuning)
Jem Miller (Dededo)
Hannah Perez (Barrigada)
Tristan Quintanilla (Hågat)
Emma Sánchez (Dededo)
Loren Villanueva (Yigo)

At the event, the G3 Conservation Corps members shared their motivation for joining the program.

Quintanilla, a policy analyst for four years, stated, “I believe that this is a way to merge the past and the future. As a researcher, I would often look at problems, and search for solutions. However, I noticed a significant difference between learning about things and being able to practice them. So, I am looking forward to that.”

Perez, with a background in human resources, expressed, “Ever since I was younger, I’ve been passionate about addressing climate change because I know it directly impacts our island. Rising sea levels, and trash in the ocean, you see that every day.”

UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton, Ph.D., told the new G3 Conservation Corps that diverse opportunities are available to graduates of the program. 

“Whether your interest lies in aquaculture, agriculture, or even nighttime efforts to catch brown tree snakes, there are immediate job openings in these areas. Many opportunities are available right here at the Research Corporation of the University of Guam, as well as through our various local and federal agency partners,” he said.

Shelton added that most of the members of the previous cohorts had achieved success in pursuing their aspirations after the program. “Over 70 percent of our graduates have transitioned into green jobs or have chosen further training, all closely aligned with the green economy.”

Throughout the five-month program, the G3 Conservation Corps will undergo training and gain exposure in various sustainability-related areas, including agriculture and aquaculture, island beautification, invasive species removal, reforestation, circular economy practices, recycling, and renewable energy. 

They will also have the opportunity to engage with diverse environmental organizations and initiatives on Guam and the rest of the Micronesia region.  

After completing the program, the G3 Conservation Corps will earn up to 80 continuing education units (CEUs) from UOG Global Learning and Engagement.

The first G3 Conservation Corps program  was launched in 2021.

WHAT IS G3?  

The UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant facilitates the  Guam Green Growth, or G3 initiative, in cooperation with the Office of the Governor of Guam and the G3 Working Group, whose members represent all sectors of society. With the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals and G3 Action Framework as a guide, G3 develops tangible solutions to sustainability challenges and contributes to a green economy for the island region.

February 15, 2024December 31, 2024

G3’s biannual meeting highlights progress, emerging opportunities

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The recent Guam Green Growth biannual meeting, held at the Governor’s Complex in December, served as a platform for the different working groups to review progress in 2023 and chart future strategies.

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 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals and G3 Action Framework as a guide, G3 develops tangible solutions to sustainability challenges and contributes to a green economy for the island region.

During the meeting, G3 working group leads and representatives presented their updates and reports to Governor Lou Leon Guerrero, who serves as co-chair of the G3 biannual meetings alongside University of Guam President Anita Borja Enriquez, DBA.

Highlights from Working Group Presentations:

1. Healthy and Prosperous Communities:

The group reported accomplishments such as the opening of the 3rd G3 community garden in Dededo and the registration of 578 bonafide farmers with the Department of Agriculture. Progress was also noted on initiatives such as the Guam Forest System Plan Economic Impact Statement and the Guam Agriculture Master Plan. Notable opportunities include the ongoing development of the 2050 Guahan Sustainability Plan and substantial federal funding to support local farmers.

2. Educated, Capable, and Compassionate Island:

The group highlighted achievements such as the launch of the UOG Island Wisdom initiative and the groundbreaking of the UOG Student Center, Engineering. They also discussed the Internet for All Guam initiative, aimed at providing digital access to disadvantaged youth, supported by a $156 million grant.

3. Thriving Natural Resources:

The group showcased efforts to preserve Guam’s natural resources. Activities included a successful tree planting event with over 4,400 trees planted in collaboration with various organizations. Additionally, initiatives such as the assessment of Guam’s coral reefs and community engagement on fisheries regulations were discussed. Plans were announced to establish an online repository of articles, journals, and reports related to Guam’s environmental efforts.

4. Sustainable Housing, Utilities, and Transportation:

The group reported the approval of the Guam Tropical Energy Code, which promotes green housing construction. Emerging opportunities include rebate programs for electric motorcycles and provisions for solar energy in government-owned buildings. Possible collaboration with the Mayors’ Council of Guam to provide solar lights for certain facilities was also highlighted. Further opportunities include biodiesel projects and initiatives to utilize closed landfill cells for energy and mitigate contamination rates in waste collection.

5. Sustainable Alliances:

The group reported continued engagement with the United Nations, including efforts to facilitate a visiting mission to Guam. They also reported the launch of Giha Mo’na: A Self-Determination Study for Guahan, along with engagements with community stakeholders for its promotion. Conferences, such as the 2023 Fanhita: Security, Sovereignty, and the Path to Peace, were organized to foster dialogue and collaboration.

January 10, 2024December 31, 2024

GROW Initiative continues to thrive into new year

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A GROW sign is displayed marking a tree planting site for participants

Two members of the Local2030's Corps place white flags to indicate where holes have been dug to plant acacia tree saplings

Davina Artero of the G3 Kupu Corps uses a drill attachment to dig holes in preparation of volunteers using them to plant trees

A tray of acacia trees saplings are carried by a member of the G3 Kupu Corps to the designated tree planting site

Joseph Certeza, G3 Project Coordinator, speaks to a group of volunteers explaining how to properly plant acacia tree saplings

Phillip Cruz speaks to volunteers just before tree planting festivities begin

Laura Layan of the G3 Conservation Corps preps a GROW site for tree planting using a drill attachment to dig holes

A crate holding acacia tree saplings waiting to be planted by volunteers and G3 personnel

Two volunteers remove acacia tree saplings from casing moments before planting

Addison Ferguson, Sea Turtle Biologist for Sea Grant, packs dirt around a freshly planted acacia sapling

Two volunteers work together to plant acacia tree saplings in the Ugum Watershed area

The year 2023 has been a productive one for the Guam Restoration of Watersheds (GROW) Initiative. Though each new year is sure to bring its unique challenges to any person or organization, this past year was made especially difficult with the arrival of Super Typhoon Mawar in May, a cataclysmic weather event which boasted damaging winds of 130 to 140 mph. Despite Mawar devastating Guam, there was still little that could stunt the GROW Initiative’s progress, who still managed to achieve greater success in 2023 than the year previous.

With a total of seventeen tree planting events, including three community outplanting events, GROW has surpassed previous numbers as it involves both the volume of volunteers who participated, and the total number of trees planted.

A total of 486 volunteers worked alongside the GROW Initiative this year, beating out last year’s volunteer count of 450. With the combined effort, a total of 4,836 trees were successfully planted in 2023, exceeding last year’s count of 4,718.

Each tree planted has the potential to offset our community’s carbon footprint. According to ecotree.green, one tree can absorb 25 kg of carbon dioxide emissions annually. That means as the 4,836 trees planted by GROW in 2023 begin to mature, it has the potential to absorb approximately 120,900 kg (about 266,539 lbs.) of carbon a year.

With the vast amount of acacia trees planted, attempts to mitigate the effects of erosion have strengthened this year as well, helping to keep sediment out of Guam’s freshwater systems and ocean, ensuring our drinking water is kept clean and our ocean reefs are protected from sediment runoff.

Additionally, although acacia trees are not native to Guam, it is a necessary first step to help revitalize barren soil through the tree’s ability to reintroduce nitrogen to badlands, enriching soil in preparation of the next phase of planting native plants.

As 2023 ends and a new year begins, the GROW Initiative remains rooted in its commitment to protecting and preserving Guam’s freshwater resources and ocean. Though the new year will yet again present its own challenges, the opportunity to sprout fresh ideas to address these issues remains.

December 28, 2023December 31, 2024

G3 shares food security insights at Sustainability Summit

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Camarin Quitugua, G3 Action Framework Coordinator, shares her thoughts on food security with an audience at UOG CLASS Lecture Hall

Panelists Michelle Crisostomo of Guåhan Sustainable Culture & Melvin Won Pat Borja of the Department of CHamoru Affairs address a young crowd at the Mo'na Manhoben Sustainability Summit on Food Security

Moderator for the Sustainability Summit on Food Security, Edward Suarez poses questions to the three-person panel

A view from the audience of the Mo'na Manhoben Sustainability Summit on Food Security stage

Panelists sit with the audience of the Mo'na Manhoben Sustainability Summit on Food Security for a group photo

At the recent 2023 Mo’na Manhoben Sustainability Summit on Food Security, Guam Green Growth (G3) joined a panel of experts in a discussion focused on the challenges hindering food security on Guam and the strategies to overcome them.

The Guam Youth Congress, Governor’s Youth Advisory Council, and the G3 Youth Ambassadors, with support from the Offices of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor of Guam, all helped to organize the summit, which was held on December 14 at the University of Guam CLASS Lecture Hall.

Food security is the ability for a community to have access to a high quantity of affordable, nutritious food options with a great availability to all people, according to USDA.

As part of the panel, Camarin Quitugua, G3 Action Framework Coordinator, emphasized the significance of addressing food security among the younger generation.

“As a youth, it was very clear to me that [the issue of food security] is our reality. When I had learned that it made me want to change it… for myself and for my family. It changed the way I live my life and helped me to feel like I have agency in this reality.”

Quitugua and her fellow panelists also shared ways for island residents to bolster Guam’s position in addressing food security and other challenges — from learning how to cultivate crops through lessons given by organizations like Guahån Sustainable Culture to supporting local farmers and fishermen. She said these initiatives present opportunities to advance the goal of achieving food security on Guam.

Of all the ideas shared and the plethora of conversations had, there is one Quitugua hopes continues to grow in the minds of the youth in attendance.

“I wanted them to feel empowered! [To know] that there are still places to learn” says Quitugua. “We can make these choices, even if we don’t [currently] have easy access to healthier foods. It really boils down to our choices. There are still spaces for us to learn and it’s up to us to take up the opportunity.”

For Quitugua, the success of food security on Guam hinges on the daily choices made by its residents. She reassures her audience that, despite the apparent challenges, achieving this goal is indeed realistic. Whether it’s the young attendees at the food security summit or everyday individuals of all ages in the community, Quitugua challenges them to embrace a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle, not just for themselves but for generations to come.

As part of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, G3 partners with different organizations in sparking conversations and developing tangible solutions to food security and other sustainability challenges, using the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and G3 Action Framework as a guide.

December 13, 2023December 31, 2024

GROW Initiative sprouts success at Ugum watershed tree planting

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Phillip Cruz, Sustainability Coordinator for UOG Center for Island Sustainability & Sea Grant, demonstrates how to properly plant an acacia tree to volunteers at Ugum Watershed

Davina Artero, Extension Assistant for Guam Green Growth Kupu Corp, uses a drill attachment to dig holes to assist volunteers in planting acacia trees

A crate housing some of the 1,400 acacia trees waiting to be planted

A volunteer collects a handful of acacia trees to plant

A volunteer packs soil around a freshly planted acacia tree

The Guam Restoration of Watersheds (GROW) initiative, supported by the University of Guam Sea Grant, reached a significant milestone in its restoration efforts this month.

During its first tree-planting event in December, approximately 30 volunteers assisted the team in planting 1,400 acacia trees at the Ugum watershed, one of the areas under GROW’s restoration program.

Although not native to Guam, acacia trees play a crucial role in preventing erosion and revitalizing soil in badlands by reintroducing nitrogen into the soil.

Daniel Stone Jr., GROW extension assistant was actively involved in the restoration efforts during the event.

“Last year, we planted about 6,000 acacia trees at the Ugum watershed which has helped keep sediment out of our water system. So far, we have managed to plant 5,700 more trees in 2023, and I am pretty confident we will surpass our previous record before the year is over,” said Stone.

According to Stone, in 2023, Guam experienced increased rainfall due to El Niño, intensifying erosion effects. Moreover, Super Typhoon Mawar’s passage this year devastated the island, requiring the GROW team to intensify its efforts to mitigate the impact of these events on their restoration efforts.

“Restoring forestlands is a part of our goal as members of the GROW initiative. Our plant stock dwindled a bit due to [Super Typhoon Mawar], which was a challenge, but the team pulled together and got things back on track regardless. We took downed acacia trees and used the wood for different things around the site, like using them in areas with lots of flowing water to create wattles (man-made dam). That helped to hold back sediment from reaching other parts of the river,” he said.

Reflecting on the recent tree planting event, Stone expressed his amazement at the efficiency and enthusiasm displayed by everyone involved.

“It was like a Christmas miracle because we planted a huge number of trees, and we got it done quick! In just two hours, we had planted all 1,400 trees. It goes to show how much we can get done when we all come together and help each other out,” Stone said.

October 31, 2023December 31, 2024

‘Trick or Trees’ sow seeds of sustainability

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Volunteers plant acacia trees at the Cotal Watershed area to prevent erosion and revitalize the surrounding soil.

Guam Green Growth (G3) Project Coordinator Joey Certeza mentoring a G3 Local2030 Dorm Corps member during tree planting event

Members of the Department of Agriculture's Forestry Division, Guam Green Growth Local2030's Corps, and John F. Kennedy High School students spreading out to cover more ground during tree planting event

Two members of G3 Local2030's Dorm Corps spread mulch around the base of a freshly planted acacia tree.

A handful of the over 80 volunteers at the 'Trick or Trees' event in the Tarzan Falls area of Talofo'fo'

Despite rain and various ghouls roaming around the Tarzan Falls area of Talofo’fo’, nothing could spook over 80 volunteers from participating in the Guam Department of Agriculture (DoAg) Trick or Trees event on Saturday October 28. This costumed tree planting affair aimed to help stave off erosion.

The Guam Green Growth (G3) Local2030 Conservation Corps, in support of the DoAg Forestry and Soil Resources Division, arrived early at the Cotal watershed area. They assisted John F. Kennedy High School students in planting approximately 500 acacia trees.

Josh Fanapngag from the G3 Local2030 Conservation Corps worked alongside the other groups, digging holes for tree planting, providing mulch and fertilizer. To his surprise, the effort was completed in just over an hour.” I was really surprised when we finished [in an hour]. I was expecting to be there for about three or four hours.”

Erosion at the Cotal watershed area has been a persistent problem, prompting numerous restoration attempts over the past 40 years. While acacia trees are not native to Guam, their ability to provide nitrogen to the soil makes them crucial for sowing native trees.

Thanks to the sheer volume of volunteers and savvy preparation, the planting of 500 trees concluded in record time, leaving a few hours for the Local2030 Conservation Corps to enjoy the cool waters cascading from atop Tarzan Falls.

Fanapngag, a native of the island of Yap, recalls the experience with a smile, commenting on how the event unfolded.

“[The event went] way better than I expected. It was fun, I got to meet a lot of new people, and it’s good to establish new connections. It was a nice feeling to see what we are protecting, even though I am not from Guam. The island is really beautiful.”

October 28, 2023December 31, 2024

Local2030 Conservation Corps learns environmental justice in summit

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The Guam Green Growth (G3) Local2030 Conservation Corps actively participated in the two-day “Making Waves: For Peace and Climate Justice Summit,” gaining profound insights into environmental justice issues.

The event, held at the Sinajana Community Center, was a collaborative effort between the Micronesia Climate Change Alliance and Our Commonwealth 670. In partnership with the Tishman Environment and Design Center at The New School, the summit aimed to unite regional and global leaders in environmental justice movements. Their goal was to address concerns affecting island communities and brainstorm potential solutions.

Jonathan Mitsur, a member of the G3 Local2030 Conservation Corps, attended the summit and found it deeply impactful. One presentation, delivered by Joseph Certeza, G3 Project Coordinator, resonated strongly with Mitsur.

In his presentation, Certeza emphasized the significance of indigenous languages and the urgent need to practice and preserve them for future generations.

Mitsur was moved by the summit. He noted, “I liked the passion. There was a lot of emotion during the event, and it shows that this group can actually grow because there are a lot of people who want to do these things but cannot really express themselves as openly or freely.”

When questioned about his concerns regarding the preservation of language and culture on his home island of Yap, Mitsur expressed alarm after encountering new generations of Yapese individuals with limited language understanding or the inability to speak it at all. “Getting to hear from [Local2030 Corps]—their experiences, struggles, and the things they have had to overcome—brings a lot of concerns to my home island.”

He added, “Growing up, I was taught my own language, customs, and traditions, but as I got older and moved away from home, I noticed that the Western way of living is becoming a barrier, hindering the younger generation from learning.”

In addition to his active participation, Mitsur volunteered as an usher and timekeeper for the event’s first day. Reflecting on the experience, he remarked, “I would say that everything went smoothly. Everyone was working together to keep the event running and on time.”

Regarding his final thoughts on the summit, Mitsur shared, “Never take anything for granted. Even though Yap is still conservative in its culture, you never know what the future holds. The summit itself taught me that if we work together and engage in activities that help preserve and document our culture for the next generation, that would be the best thing to do.”

October 6, 2023December 31, 2024

UOG’s Guam Green Growth features sustainable art and fashion at DFS

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In recognition of Sustainable September, the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, Guam Green Growth (G3), in partnership with DFS T Galleria, organized an event at the retail chain’s Tumon location, featuring sustainable fashion and art.

The event took place on Thursday, September 28, as one of three events marking the culmination of Sustainable September. On Friday, a wave will happen from 4:30 to 5:30 in front of DFS T Galleria to wrap upthe month-long celebration, and Saturday morning will feature a tree planting event inInalåhan at the Guam Restoration of Watersheds (GROW) initiative Ugum projectsite.

2030 is on the horizon, signifying the culmination of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Therefore, the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, in collaboration with Guam Green Growth and its diverse partners, is actively raising awareness throughout Sustainable September.

At the event, Marlena Pangelinan, UOG Vice Provost for Institutional Effectiveness, stated, “Guam Green Growth is a partnership between the University of Guam and the Office of the Governor. We have witnessed firsthand the impact of G3’s work on the island, whether it’s educating about food security at the G3 community gardens, developing our workforce with the Conservation Corps, or assisting with typhoon recovery. They work with the people, for the people.”

The displays at the event prominently highlighted one of the core objectives of the G3 initiative: diverting waste from the landfill. G3 recognizes that, as an island, Guam’s resources are finite, intensifying the need for conservation and sustainable practices

Austin Shelton, PhD, Director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, said, “The exhibit goes beyond environmental aspects of sustainability. It highlights how green growth expands our economy. We need to imagine waste as resources rather than trash to bury in the ground. Through Guam Green Growth, we are developing new circular products and sparking new green industries for the island.”

Meanwhile, Gina Bamba Artero, DFS T Galleria General Manager recognized the importance of the partnership with Guam Green Growth and UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant. She said, “I’m really honored to take part in this important initiative. Bringing forth an increase in sustainability even in this luxury environment is really critical for us to be able to affect the future generations on this island.”

Abby Crain, G3 Circular Economy Coordinator and the creative mind behind local brand Blue Latitude, designed the sustainable creations.

The displays featured designs inspired by the slow fashion movement, which promotes sustainable and ethical production methods and encourages consumers to invest in durable, long-lasting clothing. Crain’s designs used handcrafted garments from vintage fabrics, as well as remnants of vegetable-tanned leather.

Crain also crafted fashion pieces from food packaging and bubble wrap. She also made a manta ray and surfboard display from marine debris. A separate display showcased a large guasåli with hand-folded butterflies made from 300 aluminum cans.

“This is my way of illustrating how trash can be beautiful and repurposed as a valuable resource. I also wanted to convey the work we do at the Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub by turning it into tangible products we can sell on Guam,” Crain said.

Sustainable September brings together a multitude of voices, actions, and commitments to amplify the shared impact of the UN SDGs. The month-long initiative carries a mission to shine a spotlight on sustainability, raise awareness about environmental challenges, and strengthen collaborative efforts dedicated to safeguarding Guam’s biodiversity.