Countdown to 2030: UOG and partners celebrate Sustainable September

As the world’s gaze zeroes in on 2030, which marks the culmination of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant and its multi-sectoral partners are raising awareness under the banner of Sustainable September.

The month of September was officially declared “Sustainable September” by Governor Lou Leon Guerrero during a virtual proclamation signing held on September 1, 2023.

The Sustainable September initiative aims – to spotlight sustainability, cultivate awareness about environmental challenges, and reinforce the collaborative efforts dedicated to safeguarding Guam’s biodiversity.

“This month-long commemoration is a testament to the university’s unwavering dedication to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals,” said UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez. “Through meaningful events and conversations, we illuminate the path to a greener, more harmonious future – where awareness, collaboration, and commitment converge.”

Sustainable September rallies an array of voices, actions, and commitments to amplify this shared commitment.

Sustainable September activities included the launching of the Guam Green Growth (G3) Local2030 Islands Network Conservation Corps, National Sea Grant Association Meeting, International Coastal Clean-up, Unveiling of the Sustainable September exhibit at DFS Galleria, and Community Planting at the GROW Site in Malojloj.

During the proclamation signing, Austin Shelton, Director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, emphasized the significance of this month’s events.

“We are truly excited to sustain the momentum in forging a better future for our island. The United Nations underscores the critical urgency of achieving the 17 UN (Sustainable Develoment Goals), emphasizing that the world stands within a pivotal window to tackle humanity’s most pressing sustainability issues before the clock strikes 2030.”

At the proclamation signing, Governor Lou Leon Guerrero said, “As we meet the challenges that we face, from climate change, geopolitics to other issues on our island, we have to remember that we need to put our energy into making our island sustainable.”

The governor also highlighted the agreement between the Government of Guam and Blue Planet Alliance to source 100% of Guam’s power from renewable energy sources by 2045.