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.

September 29, 2023December 31, 2024

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.