Youths from Around the World Gather in Taiwan to Lead the Way on Sustainability

Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan, Taiwan — November 11, 2024 — The 5th Asia-Pacific Roots & Shoots Youth Summit & USR Special Interest Group Forum is in full swing at Chang Jung Christian University, uniting over 100 youth leaders from 21 countries, including Taiwan, Malaysia, Tanzania, Indonesia, Uganda, Belize, the Philippines, and Burundi, under the theme: “YOUth Green Leadership - It Starts with Us! Unite for a Sustainable Tomorrow.”

Inspired by Dr. Jane Goodall’s enduring message of hope and action, participants are joining forces to discuss pressing global sustainability challenges, aiming to ignite real change for a sustainable future. Hosted by Chang Jung Christian University and the Jane Goodall Institute Taiwan, with support from co-hosts including NTU’s Master’s Program in Biodiversity, Nanhua University, Kaohsiung Medical University, and international institutions like Universitas Kristen Duta Wacana Yogyakarta, the summit has created an engaging space for youths to share ideas and build solutions.

Summit Highlights

Day One: The summit kicked off with an international meet-and-greet, where young leaders from various countries gathered to engage in cross-cultural exchanges, sharing their experiences and challenges in sustainability. Participants brought diverse perspectives and discussed the impact that collaboration could have on global change, laying the foundation for a collaborative spirit throughout the summit. This gathering not only fostered mutual understanding but also connected youth leaders who share a common vision for a sustainable future.

Day Two: Youth participants were divided into focus groups to dive into nine core topics covering global challenges such as climate change, wildlife conservation, and sustainable cities. Through in-depth discussions, each group brainstormed practical and actionable solutions, exploring both local and global approaches to sustainability. Additionally, participants created a mural made from recycled bottle caps at Shalun Railway Station, representing the concept of “creating beauty from waste.” This activity not only enhanced the public space with eco-friendly art but also encouraged the youth to reflect on creative ways to reduce waste. The mural stands as a tangible outcome of the summit, symbolizing the creativity and commitment of these young leaders to environmental action.

Day Three: On the final day, participants embarked on a “Green Tour” cycling journey along the Erren River. This immersive tour allowed youth leaders to experience Taiwan’s local ecosystems and learn about green initiatives firsthand. As they rode through the natural landscapes, participants gained insights into the efforts to restore and preserve the Erren River’s ecosystem, witnessing an example of Tainan’s green transformation. This experience not only highlighted the importance of nature but also inspired the participants to think about how they could initiate similar environmental actions within their own communities, fostering a practical commitment to sustainability for the future.

The summit embodies Dr. Goodall’s vision of “Roots & Shoots,” emphasizing care for animals, people, and the environment.

“Dr. Goodall always reminds us that 'everyone can make a difference.' This summit empowers youth to decide what difference they want to make in the world,” said Professor Kenny Hung from Chang Jung Christian University. The summit is also supported by Chang Jung Christian University’s International Program for Sustainable Development, which fosters leadership and sustainable action among the next generation.

The 5th Asia-Pacific Roots & Shoots Youth Summit will continue to spark connections and innovative ideas, laying the groundwork for long-term positive environmental impact and green leadership in the Asia-Pacific region.