UOG’s 4th conservation corps boasts diverse lineup

Update

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, 2024February 15, 2024

G3’s biannual meeting highlights progress, emerging opportunities

Update

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.

February 15, 2024March 11, 2024

Second cohort completes UOG traditional healing course

Update

Austin Shelton, Ph.D., Director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, speaks at the graduation ceremony for the second traditional healing and medicine class for Fanuchånan 2023 (Photo by: UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant)

Kyle Mandapat, associate director for communications and engagement at the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, and Lourdes 'Mama Lou' Manglona, master Yo'åmte and project lead, discuss the Guam Green Growth Yo'åmte Project at the graduation ceremony for the second traditional healing and medicine class for Fanuchånan 2023 (Photo by: UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant)

(From left to right) Lourdes 'Mama Lou' Manglona, Master Yo'åmte and project lead; Senator Joe S. San Agusti; Inalåhan Mayor Anthony P. Chargualaf; and Tricia Lizama, Ph.D." lead the representatives at the graduation ceremony for the second traditional healing and medicine class for Fanuchånan 2023.

The Guam Green Growth Yo’åmte Project, in collaboration with the University of Guam College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, marked the success of its second traditional healing and medicine class for Fanuchånan 2023 with an awarding of certificates and an åmot presentation centered on the coconut. 

The Yo’åmte project, launched in 2022 at the Government House in Agana Heights, concentrates on promoting and preserving traditional medicine (åmot) and healing practices on Guam through apprenticeship, training, and outreach.

“Congratulations on the successful completion of the second course in traditional healing and medicine at our university. This milestone not only signifies academic achievement but also emphasizes your commitment to preserving island wisdom and traditional knowledge and healing practices,” said Anita Borja Enriquez, DBA, UOG president.

Borja Enriquez added, “In nurturing the roots of traditional healing, our university becomes a guardian of cultural heritage, bridging the past with the present, and expanding our healthcare ecosystem.”

Lourdes ‘Mama Lou’ Manglona, master Yo’åmte and project lead, facilitated the course CM394: Traditional Healing Practices on Guam. The class focused on native plant species and their medicinal applications, spotlighting the art of åmot through student presentations and sampling.

In total, fifteen participants and apprentices received certificates at the event. As part of the process, they created table-top exhibits illustrating the diverse uses of the coconut—a tree central to CHamoru culture for its versatility in sustaining communities.

“We use the coconut for food, medicine, clothing, arts, and everything; that’s why we used the coconut tree to highlight its significance,” Manglona explained.

Austin Shelton, Ph.D., UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant director, expressed the uniqueness of concluding the semester with a class driven by the Yo’åmte. He commended Manglona and her apprentices for playing a vital role in the university’s commitment to promoting island wisdom.

Shelton also acknowledged the support of current UOG President Anita Borja-Enriquez, DBA, and former president Thomas Krise, Ph.D., in incorporating the concept of island wisdom into the university’s strategic goals. 

He emphasized that UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant programs collaborate with different university units to recognize and elevate island wisdom, perpetuating the understanding that it has always been present here on Guam.

“Our people arrived here 3500 to 4000 years ago, long before Western Science approached the islands,” Shelton said.

At the event, Manglona also shared her passion for teaching traditional medicine and healing, saying, “I enjoy sharing my knowledge with my apprentices. I hope that they will carry this knowledge forward to teach and help other people. This is one way to protect our indigenous heritage.”

Before CM394, an inaugural class, CM294: Introduction to CHamoru Indigenous Health and Healing, was offered in 2022. The development of the two courses received support from the CHamoru studies program, UOG Island Wisdom, G3, and the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant.

February 15, 2024February 15, 2024

Young entrepreneurs receive mentorship from G3 Makerspace

Update

Prikura Guahan President Yang Wang and team members Jerrick Palomares, Harry Vitae, and Eric Kwan showcase the latte-stone-shaped stamp and inkpad set they crafted using locally sourced wood and invasive bamboo. The team created the product for the 2023-2024 JA Company of the Year Competition using equipment from the G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub (Photo credit: UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant)

Prikura Guahan’s latte-stone-shaped stamp and inkpad set crafted from locally sourced wood and invasive bamboo. G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub has been actively involved in assisting Junior Achievement Guam teams such as Prikura (Preserve) Guahan in crafting products for the annual JA Company of the Year Competition Hub (Photo credit: UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant)

The Guam Green Growth (G3) Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub (G3 Makerspace) opened its doors to Junior Achievement (JA) Guam teams as they prepared for a competition for young entrepreneurs.

JA is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating students about work readiness, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy through experiential, hands-on programs.

In February of this year, the non-profit held the 2023-2024 JA Company of the Year Competition at the Guam Community College in Mangilao to recognize these young entrepreneurs and their innovative products.

Each year, G3 Makerspace has been actively involved in assisting JA teams such as Prikura (Preserve) Guahan, whose members consist of students from Harvest Christian Academy and St. John’s School.

In December, Prikura Guahan attended mentorship sessions and workshops focused on using the cutting-edge equipment at the G3 Makerspace. At the end of the sessions, Prikura Guahan used the G3 Makerspace equipment to turn locally sourced wood and invasive bamboo into a latte-stone-shaped stamp and inkpad set for the competition.

“The reason why we chose the stamp is because we wanted to show how invasive bamboo is to Guam. So, for our inkpads, we used invasive species bamboo to make the ink itself,” said Yang Wang, Harvest Christian Academy student and Prikura Guahan president.

The team engraved positive messages such as ‘good work’ and ‘hafa adai’ into the latte stone-shaped stamps. “For the stamp, we used locally sourced wood and laser-cutting and wood-cutting machines to create the (latte stone) shape and laser-engraved parts,” she added.

Wang credits G3 Makerspace and Innovation Hub coordinator Abby Crain for providing guidance in the production process. Wang said Crain suggested using charcoalized and crushed invasive bamboo for the inkpads.

“We assist the teams however we can — whether mentoring, counseling, consulting on materials to use, packaging, and even during conceptualization. We also help them develop and find the most cost-effective ways for production,” Crain said on the range of assistance provided by G3 Makerspace to Prikura Guahan and other JA teams.

“We have a partnership with Junior Achievement. Our (Makerspace’s) mission is to promote circular economy and sustainability, and we also aim to promote local production and utilize the plethora of resources available on Guam. We encourage people to buy local instead of importing, and we want to help business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs,” Crain added.

According to a release from JA, 146 high school students joined this year’s competition, with nine student companies stepping up to the challenge. Companies such as Graphic Center, Title Guaranty of Guam, GTA, Dusit Thani Resort Guam, Bank of Hawaii, and Community First Guam provided support to the student teams.

February 15, 2024February 15, 2024

Guam G3 lauds new CNMI Green Growth initiative

Update

While holding a United Nations Sustainable Development Goal each, representatives from the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) government, Northern Marianas College (NMC), and Guam Green Growth pose for photos at the launching of the new CNMI Green Growth Initiative in Saipan on Friday, January 6.  (Photo Credit: Thomas Mangloña / KUAM)

Officials from the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), Northern Marianas College (NMC), and Guam Green Growth attend the launch of the CNMI Green Growth initiative in Saipan on Friday, January 6. (From left to right) UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton, Ph.D., CNMI Special Assistant for Climate Policy, Christina Sablan, CNMI Governor Arnold Palacios, Northern Marianas College (NMC) President Galvin Deleon Guerrero, and NMC Dean of Cooperative Research, Extension and Education Services (CREES) Patricia Coleman  (Photo Credit: Thomas Mangloña / KUAM)

With the launch of the new Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) Green Growth Initiative on Friday, January 26, in Saipan, officials from the Guam Green Growth (G3) initiative praised the move, considering it a strategic step toward sustainable development in the Micronesian region.

CNMI Green Growth is co-chaired by CNMI Governor Arnold Palacios and Northern Marianas College (NMC) President Galvin Deleon Guerrero. To implement the initiative, they are forming a Working Group tasked with creating a CNMI Green Growth Action Strategy.

The CNMI Green Growth Working Group is being chaired by CNMI Special Assistant for Climate Policy, Christina Sablan, and NMC Dean of Cooperative Research, Extension and Education Services (CREES) Patricia Coleman.

“The expansion of the G3 Initiative into the CNMI collectively strengthens our capacity across Micronesia and the Pacific to advance sustainable development. This is a step in the right direction, with G3 making huge strides in achieving the goals set forth in our own Action Framework,” said Guam Governor Lou Leon Guerrero and G3 co-chair.

Leon Guerrero added, “It will be exciting to watch CNMI’s process as they plan for their own locally driven strategies that are aligned with the 17 UN SDGs.”

University of Guam President Anita Borja Enriquez, DBA, who co-chairs G3 with the governor, said the CNMI Green Growth initiative marks the beginning of a phenomenal comprehensive voyage, embarking on a sustainable journey that promises to yield many transformative outcomes.

“This visionary initiative is not just a path to environmental stewardship but a roadmap to progress, set to benefit residents across the CNMI. Through the partnership between UOG and the Northern Marianas College community, we can navigate together and shape a resilient, eco-friendly future that will leave a lasting legacy for future generations,” she said.

In September 2019, Guam and other island jurisdictions launched the Local2030 Islands Network at the 74th U.N. General Assembly.

A year after, the Governor and UOG launched G3 and adopted the G3 Action Framework, a strategic 10-year sustainability action plan facilitated by the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant.

With the launch of the CNMI Green Growth initiative, it now becomes the newest member of the Local2030 Islands Network.

Meanwhile, Lt. Gov. Joshua Tenorio, co-chairperson of the G3 Steering Committee, said he is thrilled to welcome the CNMI into the Local2030 Islands Network.

“The launch of the CNMI Green Growth Initiative represents a pivotal moment in our collective commitment to sustainable development. Together, we can cultivate a resilient and eco-friendly future that transcends borders,” Tenorio added.

With the addition of CNMI into the network, UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton, Ph.D., said, “We are very happy to congratulate the CNMI for taking this important step to launch their own Green Growth initiative. The Guam Green Growth initiative is happy to support them as we build a sustainable future for our island region together.”

Shelton co-chairs the G3 Steering Committee with the lieutenant governor.

Last year, the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant and the University of Hawai’i Sea Grant College Program announced the expansion of the Green Growth initiative across the Western Pacific, with funding support from the U.S. Department of State via the NOAA National Sea Grant College Program.

The plan is to expand the scope of the Green Growth initiative to the CNMI, the Federated States of Micronesia, Palau, and Marshall Islands. 

January 10, 2024January 10, 2024

GROW Initiative continues to thrive into new year

Update

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, 2023January 2, 2024

G3 shares food security insights at Sustainability Summit

Update

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 20, 2023December 21, 2023

Guam Green Growth looking for 4th Conservation Corps

Update

Javier Mercado, a Season 3 member of the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC) puts his training into practice by helping to install solar panels at a private residence

Ciara Taijeron, Season 3 member of the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC) demonstrates how to properly catch the invasive brown tree snake

Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps sets up signs just before participating in an island beautification event in the village of Barigada

Members of the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC) working together at an island beautification event

Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC) Season 3 member, Jace Blas, helps in restoration efforts at M.U. Lujan Elementary School in the village of Yoña

Applications are now open for the fourth cohort of the Guam Green Growth (G3) initiative’s Conservation Corps program (G3CC).

This five-month workforce development program is designed to prepare individuals for careers in the growing green economy while providing valuable hands-on experience in environmental conservation and sustainability initiatives.

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

The G3CC program immerses participants in a comprehensive training curriculum that encompasses a wide range of sustainability topics, including: agriculture and aquaculture, island beautification, invasive species removal, reforestation, circular economy, recycling, and renewable energy.

Through a blend of classroom instruction, hands-on field experiences, and mentorship opportunities, the program empowers participants to:

Develop the skills and knowledge needed to secure employment in the green economy.
Contribute to Guam’s sustainability goals through active engagement in environmental conservation projects.
Gain a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between human activities and the environment.
Promote environmental stewardship and sustainability within their communities.

In addition to gaining valuable skills and experience, G3CC participants also have the opportunity to earn up to 80 continuing education units (CEUs) from the UOG Global Learning and Engagement program and receive a stipend for their participation. They will also gain exposure to diverse environmental organizations and initiatives on Guam and the region.

The G3 initiative spearheads the G3CC program in collaboration with the Office of the Governor of Guam and the G3 Working Group, which comprises representatives from all sectors of society. Guided by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the G3 Action Framework, G3 formulates tangible solutions to sustainability challenges and fosters a green economy for the island region.

Apply online at http://guamgreengrowth.org. Applications close on January 19, 2024.

December 20, 2023February 14, 2024

New science magazine celebrates island wisdom and science

Update

Representatives and Wave Club members pose with the newly revealed fist issue of the CHalan Deskubre magazine

Lieutenant Governor of Guam, Joshua Tenorio addresses the crowd at the CHalan Deskubre unveiling

Vice Speaker of the 37th Guam Legislature, Senator Tina Muña Barnes fires up a crowd of people moments before the revealing of the cover of the CHalan Deskubre magazine

Sharleen Santos-Bamba, PhD, UOG Senior Vice President and Provost speaks to attendees excitedly awaiting the unveiling of the CHalan Deskubre magazine cover

UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton, PhD speaks to a lively crowd attending the CHalan Deskubre magazine launch event

A show of hands from a crowd of Wave Club members shoot up in response to a question posed by Austin Shelton

UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Associate Director for Communications, Kyle Mandapat hypes up attendees moments before the unveiling of the cover for the first issue of the CHalan Deskubre magazine

Assistant Professor of Fisheries Ecology, UOG Sea Grant & Marine Laboratory, Brett Taylor smiles as his daughter learns to weave using håggon niyok (coconut leaves)

Wave Club members learn how to weave using håggon niyok (coconut leaves)

A young attendee of the CHalan Deskubre magazine launch dons face paint in celebration of the event

Emphasizing the significance of traditional knowledge in science, the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant unveiled the inaugural issue of CHalan Deskubre magazine on December 9, at the Micronesia Mall, with this theme at its core.

CHalan Deskubre isn’t your typical magazine—it is a place-based STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) publication designed specifically for kids on Guam and the region, encouraging them to adopt a scientific mindset and explore the world beyond their classrooms.

Additionally, the magazine incorporates art to creatively show scientific concepts and foster a visually engaging learning experience for young readers, intertwining imagination with the exploration of STEAM subjects.

The first issue focuses on science and traditional wisdom, highlighting how the knowledge from our island communities contributes to scientific advancements and innovative practices. Subsequent issues will revolve around themes that spotlight the resources unique to Guam and other islands in the region, aligning with the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals.

“This magazine (CHalan Deskubre) was designed specifically for you. I hope that you take the opportunity to explore the magazine,” said Sharleen Santos–Bamba, PhD, UOG Senior Vice President and Provost.

Santos-Bamba added, “It is great partnerships like these that allows us to provide services and information and scholarship to our Guam community and our region. “

CHalan Deskubre embodies UOG’s commitment to scientific and place-based learning, according to Austin Shelton, PhD, Director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant.

He said, “CHalan Deskubre, is crafted to ignite curiosity and discovery, guiding children onto a path of scientific inquiry.”

“This is the first time that we are going to have a science magazine that teaches you about the islands around you,” Shelton added.

For the publication of the magazine, the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant received funding from the Education Stabilization Funds (ESF) for the “Innovating Through Pandemic Challenges to Deliver Place-Based Education in Marine, Environmental, and Sustainability Sciences” program. The ESF funding is a key component of the Governor of Guam’s Education Assistance and Youth Empowerment Grant Program.

December 13, 2023December 13, 2023

Discovering 3D printing at Hagåtña’s G3 Makerspace

Update

Tim Udo, G3 Makerspace Coordinator discussing details of his team's 3D printing workshop

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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