October 2021 | Volume 1 Issue 2

New energy project, other gains highlighted at G3 biannual meeting

At the Guam Green Growth (G3) 2nd biannual meeting in September, committee co-chairs reported several program milestones and successes, including a new project that will create a renewal energy road map for Guam.

The G3 working group leads presented their updates and reports to Governor Lou Leon Guerrero and UOG President Dr. Thomas Krise at the virtual event. The two serve as chairs of the G3 biannual meetings.

Austin Shelton, UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant director and G3 steering committee co-chair, said the Department of Interior Office of Insular Affairs' Energizing Insular Communities (EIC) program selected G3 to develop an updated Guam Strategy Energy & Action Plan in partnership with the Guam Energy Office.

Climate action network expands island

partnerships, affirms commitments

The Climate Strong Islands Network (CSIN) is growing. As the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and other convenors reported during the 5th biannual gathering on Sept. 23, the network now has over 70 signatories representing a diverse coalition of partners and supporters all over the world.

Screen Shot 2021-10-13 at 10.06.48 PM.png

G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub prepares for opening

The Guam Green Growth (G3) Initiative is preparing for its G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub opening at the CHamoru Village in Hagatña.

The circular economy is a model of production and consumption which involves sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials and products as long as possible. In this way, the life cycle of products is extended.

G3 Conservation Corps helps install solar panels on JFK roofs

The lesson of Renewable energy was taught in the sun, as the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps took to the rooftop of John F. Kennedy High School in Tamuning to learn about solar power.

Alongside the maintenance contractors for the school, the Corps installed over four hundred twenty solar panels on the school's gym, cafeteria, annex and classrooms.

“It gives me hope that there are alternatives for energy saving and renewable energy sources,” explained Corps member Drake Kemp. “It gives us a way to get away from using our ancient practices and do some good for the environment.”

G3 Conservation Corps conducts energy audit to help non-profit group

The University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps participated in a hands-on energy survey of the Guam Animals in Need facility in Yigo under the guidance of Guam Power Authority staff.

After completing a basic orientation in September, the G3 Conservation Corps members conducted the energy assessment alongside GPA energy auditors at the Northern facility.

G3 Internship program inspires Taijeron to return home "to help"

While studying off island in Hawaii, Lauren Taijeron was ready to come home for the summer and put in some internship hours.

Little did she know, that two months later, she would be returning to school to start her junior year with more insight, confidence, and a renewed spirit for her people.

G3 Conservation Corps harvest invasive vine for circular economy

As part of their training with the University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth initiative, the G3 Conservation Corps members recently participated in an activity from Sept 7 to 10 to clear portions of land overrun by an invasive vine —- the chain of love (kadena de amor) — and repurposed parts of the plant into viable products for the circular economy.

Associate Director Else Demeulenaere gives some sustainable tips for school

The pandemic has lead to more stresses than every before, and with our children getting back to school CIS Associate Director Else Demeulenaere has some great tips that could make the process easier and more sustainable.