Catalyzing sustainable change: G3 initiatives shine at BSP symposium

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At the 8th Assembly of Planners Symposium organized by the Bureau of Statistics and Plans, Kyle Mandapat, UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Associate Director for Communications and Community Engagement, delivered a presentation on advancing sustainable development through the Guam Green Growth (G3) initiative.

G3 is a crucial component in advancing the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The G3 movement was conceived when Guam became a founding member of the Local2030 Islands Network, a consortium comprising other island nations and jurisdictions. This commonality allows Guam to engage in productive discussions on issues that impact island communities.

Mandapat mentioned some of the guiding principles that underpin the network’s initiatives, including the establishment of public-private partnerships and concrete action plans.

“After looking at the SDGs, we assembled a team of amazing partners, over 100 members from the private and public sector, from education to business to community groups and we formed the largest private-public partnership in the history of Guam, all to address a sustainable future,” he said.

The next significant step was the development of the G3 Action Framework, which outlines the necessary measures for Guam to progress toward sustainability.

Mandapat emphasized that the concept of sustainability has evolved beyond just addressing climate change. It now encompasses a wide array of components, including poverty alleviation, health and wellbeing, inequality reduction, and education enhancement.

“We are really trying to look at sustainability from an entire spectrum,” he said, adding that these components are the basis for the action framework.

Another vital component of this framework is the G3 dashboard, a tool designed to monitor the progress of each action point.

Mandapat outlined some of the accomplishments in the dashboard.

Among them is the Guam Restoration of Watersheds (GROW) initiative. In collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Forestry Division, GROW has been actively involved in reforestation and watershed restoration projects in environmentally challenged areas. One notable project employs drones to distribute seeds, demonstrating innovative approaches to restoration.

Under the umbrella of workforce development, Mandapat showcased the G3 Conservation Corps. This program prepares its members for careers in the emerging green economy. The conservation corps engages in various focus areas, including aquaculture, invasive species management, renewable energy, and waste management.

Mandapat also spotlighted the G3 Makerspace and Innovation Hub, a vital contributor to transitioning towards a circular economy. Through the resources and workshops available at Makerspace, the community can explore innovative ways to repurpose discarded materials like plastic and wood into new products. “We provide training to teach people, including potential entrepreneurs, with the skills to use these materials and machines,” he emphasized.

Additionally, Mandapat mentioned other significant programs, such as the UOG Sea Grant’s aquaculture program and initiatives that support traditional island knowledge, including traditional navigation and the Yo’Amte project, which promotes traditional medicine and healing.

Given the urgency of achieving the 17 UN SDGs, Mandapat stressed the importance of community collaboration in securing a better, more sustainable future for the island.

September 14, 2023December 31, 2024

UOG and University of Hawai’i Sea Grant partner to expand Green Growth Initiative

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The University of Guam announced the expansion of the Green Growth Initiative across the Western Pacific. A $1.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of State via the NOAA National Sea Grant College Program will strengthen the partnership between the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant and the University ofHawai’iSea Grant College Program.

UOG made the announcement on Tuesday, September 12, during the National Sea Grant Association meeting at the Hyatt Regency Guam. This marked the first time that Guam hosted the biannual meeting, bringing together over 70 directors and representatives from nearly all of the 34 Sea Grant programs nationwide.

The new grant will support efforts to expand the scope of Local2030 Islands Network and UOG’s Guam Green Growth Initiative to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of Palau, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands.

During the press conference, Austin Shelton, Director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, emphasized the potential impact of this collaboration, stating, “This seed funding will enable our island neighbors to hire their own Green Growth coordinators. We aspire to collectively strengthen our capacity across Micronesia and the Pacific to advance sustainable development.”

Shelton further highlighted the value of knowledge exchange with regional partners, saying, “Our island neighbors are at the forefront of sustainability, and this partnership offers an exciting opportunity to expand capacity and knowledge exchange throughout the Pacific.”

Randall V. Wiegand, Acting President of UOG, acknowledged the transformative potential of this collaboration, stating, “This partnership expands the ways we, as a region, can support each other in advancing the green economy and addressing climate change.”

Galvin S. Deleon Guerrero, President of the Northern Marianas College and one of the program partners, said the partnerships “are essential to our collective efforts to improve the world.”

“Our aspirations are as expansive as the Pacific our ancestors traversed, and as profound as the Marianas Trench,” Deleon Guerrero added.

Darren Lerner, President of the Sea Grant Association and Director of the UH Sea Grant College Program, commended the long-standing partnership between the two universities. He praised UOG for its commitment to excellence, emphasizing the strength derived from the dedication of every program to this shared goal.

Jonathan Pennock, Director of the National Sea Grant College Program, also recognized the impressive growth of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant program in a relatively short period of time. He emphasized its strong connection to the community and praised the program for effectively carrying forward the mission of Sea Grant.

In 2022, UOG achieved Sea Grant Institutional Status following a unanimous recommendation from the National Sea Grant Advisory Board and official designation from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) senior leadership.

The National Sea Grant College Program is a collaborative effort between universities and NOAA. It is dedicated to enhancing the practical utilization and conservation of coastal and marine resources, with a vision of fostering a sustainable economy and environment. The Sea Grant network comprises more than 3,000 scientists, engineers, public outreach experts, educators, and students.

September 12, 2023December 31, 2024

G3 Local2030 Conservation Corps digs into trash

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Two weeks after its official launch in September, the Guam Green Growth (G3) Local2030 Conservation Islands Network Conservation Corps (G3 Local2030 Conservation Corps) has already rolled up its sleeves, conducting a waste audit at the residence halls.

Building on the success of the G3 Conservation Corps initiative, the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant introduced the first-ever G3 Local 2030 Islands Network Conservation Corps at the university dorm this month.

The ten members of the G3 Local 2030 Conservation Corps, representing a diverse group of students from the region, currently reside in the campus residence halls. The waste audit is just one of the capacity-building activities on their agenda.

A waste audit is typically conducted by a group or organization to assess the types of waste generated in a particular area. The data collected from the audit is then used to address and improve waste practices within the group and inform the development of a comprehensive waste management plan.

Joseph Certeza, G3 Local2030 coordinator, explained that the goal of the waste audit was to provide an in-depth look at what is being disposed of in the residence halls. “Through this audit, we challenged the team to explore ways to divert waste from landfills to streams, such as through composting, upcycled projects, or recycling initiatives on the island,” Certeza said.

He emphasized that the waste audit fulfills one of the circular economy goals and encourages the UOG residence halls to adopt a more sustainable approach to waste management.

“We plan to conduct a couple more audits to obtain a clearer picture. By the end of this semester, our aim is to propose a waste management plan for the UOG residence hall and its residents,” Certeza added.

He outlined the steps involved in the waste audit process. First, the group has to identify the need and desire to conduct the process. Afterward, they need to consolidate and sort the trash in the dorms into categories, including food waste, recyclables, compostables, and landfill items.

Then, they weigh all the sorted materials. Data analysis and collection follow, all of which will be used for developing the next steps and evaluating progress

Certeza stressed, “The waste audit is crucial for us to understand our consumption patterns and challenge ourselves to do better for our island.”

In tandem with G3 program’s accomplishments, participants in the G3 Local 2030 Conservation Corps are embarking on an immersive journey of instruction and practical training across various sustainability themes.

These areas of focus include island beautification and circular economy practices.. Additionally, the inaugural cohort will engage in activities supporting civic involvement and leadership development.

September 1, 2023December 31, 2024

UOG Sea Grant launches new conservation corps for regional impact

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Following three successful seasons of the Guam Green Growth (G3) Conservation Corps, the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant launched the new regional-focused G3 Local2030 Islands Network Conservation Corps at the UOG Residence Halls on Friday, September 1.

The G3 Local2030 Islands Network Conservation Corps is strategically tailored to empower university dorm residents from the broader Micronesia region with the skills and knowledge for the emerging green economy, while addressing pressing environmental concerns.

The ten new G3 Local 2030 Conservation Corps are Sirena Braiel (Chuuk), Don David (Pohnpei), Joshlynn Eberdong (Palau), Josh Fanapngag (Yap), Jesley Ferdinand (Pohnpei), Toyolynn Hilton (Marshall Islands), Jon Arthur Kihleng (Pohnpei), Mc Gee Mereb (Palau), Jonathan Mitsur (Yap), and Aira May Ngalongalo (Saipan). As part of the first cohort, they will receive a $1300 stipend per semester and 120 continuing education units (CEUs) for their participation in the program.

For UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez, DBA, this pioneering initiative represents the next phase of the G3 Conservation Corps. She emphasizes, “As we launch this new program, we’re not just empowering dorm residents – we’re nurturing a network of change-makers who will drive sustainable solutions for our evolving world.”

During the launch event, Sharleen Santos Bamba, UOG Senior Vice President and Provost, highlighted the importance of efforts like these in raising awareness, consciousness, and fostering a change in mindset.

According to UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton, the G3 Local2030 Islands Network Conservation Corps plays a vital role in advancing the larger movement toward achieving the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals on Guam and in the region.

He states, “This initiative builds on our past success, reaffirming our commitment to prepare our region for a future that harmonizes human well-being, economic growth, and environmental health.” Shelton also noted that the program serves as a crucial bridge between education and action.

Lt. Governor Josh Tenorio, co-chair of the G3 steering committee, declared, “It is here, at UOG, where we lay the foundation for the Micronesian community. It is here that we encounter the future leaders of Micronesia.”

The first ten G3 Local2030 Islands Network Conservation Corps members represent a diverse group of students from Micronesia.

On the reason for joining the new corps, Aira Ngalongalo, a BS Business Administration student and dorm resident assistant, said, “I am excited to work with my new team. I want change for the CNMI. In the CNMI, we have landfills that cause contamination to the land.”

Jesley Ferdinand, a BS Civil Engineering student from Pohnpei said, “I want to bring the knowledge back to the island and help sustain it. And since this is my home away from home, I also want to help the island.”

Parallel to the G3 program’s achievements, participants of the G3 Local2030 Islands Network Conservation Corps are poised to embark on an immersive path of instruction and practical training across a spectrum of sustainability themes.

These focus areas include agriculture, aquaculture, island beautification, invasive species mitigation, reforestation, circular economy practices, ocean conservation, and harnessing renewable energy. In addition, the inaugural cohort will also participate in activities that support civic engagement and leadership.

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 28, 2023December 31, 2024

G3 Makerspace hosts Lil Sprouts camp with GSC

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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.

July 27, 2023December 31, 2024

Traditional navigation takes center stage with Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps

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Master Navigator Larry Riagetel gave the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps a lesson in Island Wisdom and Traditional Navigating this month as a part of the five-month long G3CC Season.

The group learned about care of the traditional boat and proa, a practice that not many people are exposed to these days.

The lesson included familiarization with nautical terms and practices and a speed through of important knots used for wayfaring.

They also learned about canoe culture, the purpose of canoes and the functions of a canoe house.

The group was eager to put their newly acquired knowledge into practice, and with the continued tutelage of Master Larry, the group hopes to hit the water soon.

June 13, 2023December 31, 2024

G3CC Typhoon Mawar cleanup Before and After

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The Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps has been hard at work assisting with the cleanup efforts through the island.

This week, the team assisted the Department of Parks and Recreation with some of our island’s parks. Here is a gallery of some of the Before and After shots the team took while out in the field.

The group along with all the hard working members of the community and government were hard at work while the island recovered in the aftermath of the strongest storm Guam has seen in decades.

June 1, 2023December 31, 2024

G3 Conservation Corps assists in campus post-typhoon clean-up

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A day after typhoon Mawar left a trail of destruction all over the island, the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC) got down to work by helping out with on-campus cleanup at the University of Guam.

All 12 members of the current G3CC cohort collected felled branches, organic matter, and debris that littered the campus grounds. They also cleared portions of the road where cars and pedestrians pass through, opening access to areas within the university.

G3 Conservation Corps member Ciara “CiCi” Taijeron said, “Today, it is sad to see so many trees without leaves on them and all the organic matter is everywhere…I am very relieved that my team and I are safe and everybody on Guam is trying to recover from this unfortunate natural disaster.”

Every Friday, G3 Conservation Corps members usually assist in village beautification activities. With post-typhoon recovery in full swing all over the island, the team recognized the need to refocus their energy and contribute to these ongoing efforts.

UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Sustainability Coordinator Phil Cruz said, “The G3 Conservation Corps is our workforce development program, where participants are exposed to jobs related to sustainability. We are shifting gears a bit, focusing on beautification of our island in terms of post-typhoon cleanup.”

Cruz added, “Because Guam Green Growth is a community-based organization, it is essential to our G3 Conservation Corps to engage with the community in such a time where we need so much assistance as possible.

According to UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton, PhD, the G3 Conservation Corps will also contribute to other aspects of the recovery efforts.

“Right now, we are clearing roads in the Mangilao area and the University of Guam campus. We will get moving around the island and help with some of our response activities,” he said.

Shelton also encouraged the community to reach out to the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant.

“If there is any way that you think we can assist, please feel free to reach out to us. We are looking forward to getting through this together and helping out as much as we can,” he added.

For more information about the G3 Conservation Corps’ post-typhoon recovery activities, follow us on social media @guamgreengrowth

What is G3 and the G3 Conservation Corps?

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 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.

The G3 Conservation Corps program prepares the community for the emerging green economy. For the duration of the program, the 12 conservation corps members participate in workforce development training covering various sustainability topics, such as agriculture and aquaculture, island beautification, invasive species removal, reforestation, circular economy, recycling, to renewable energy.