The University of Guam’s Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant (UOG CIS & Sea Grant) has released its 2024 Impact Book, documenting a year of record progress in conservation, education, and sustainable development initiatives. The report details successes ranging from sea turtle protection to reforestation projects, while highlighting the group’s ability to leverage local funds into millions in outside grants.
According to the report, UOG CIS & Sea Grant achieved a 33.9-to-1 return on investment in 2024. For every $1 in local funding, the program secured $33.9 million in grants. “Through the many grants we applied for and were awarded, we were able to leverage $33,900,000 in total funding for our island,” said Director Dr. Austin Shelton. More than 12,000 people participated in outreach activities last year, while nearly 150 sea turtle nesting events were documented.
Highlights of 2024 include the UOG Conference on Island Sustainability, the opening of the CHalan Deskubre Hub learning center at the Mangilao campus, and forward-looking work on Gold Standard Carbon Credit Certification with the U.S. Climate Alliance for watershed reforestation projects. “From protecting our coral reefs through reforestation to inspiring our youth through hands-on science education, we are not just showing what has been done but welcoming the community to participate,” said Associate Director for Communications & Community Engagement Kyle Mandapat.
The Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps also marked a milestone year, recycling more than 13,000 aluminum cans, conducting 14 roadside cleanups, and installing 200 feet of erosion control devices. About 80% of its 60 graduates have secured employment in the green economy. UOG President Anita Borja-Enriquez said the report reflects the university’s “unwavering commitment to sustainability and leadership in research, education, and outreach for Guam and the broader Micronesian region.” The 2024 Impact Book is available for free online at uog.edu/cis.