The standard economic model is linear, meaning resources are extracted, turned into products, and then disposed of after use. A circular economy minimizes waste and pollution, keeps materials in use, and regenerates natural systems. The grant will start familiarizing the community with the benefits of transitioning to a circular economy.

“Accelerating a circular economy is a sustainable solution to our heavy reliance on imports and massive production of waste,” said Austin Shelton, executive director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability.

 The G3 Initiative will start this month by offering the first-ever Island Circular Economy Industry Workshop for small-business owners, entrepreneurs, and intrapreneurs. The full-day workshop will be led by two sustainable development experts from Arizona State University: Rajesh Buch, director of sustainability practice and international development, and Amanda Jordan, program coordinator for the Resource Innovation & Solutions Network Incubator.

UOG is also working with the Guam Economic Development Authority and the Guam Unique Merchandise & Art Business Incubator to stimulate new island circular economy industries.

“We are happy to work with UOG on its G3 Initiative for a green economy,” said Melanie Mendiola, CEO and administrator of GEDA. “As we think about how we can bolster economic opportunities on Guam, we must also keep in mind how our decisions will impact our natural resources and quality of life. GEDA is working diligently to assist local businesses — especially small and new ones — through healthier, more sustainable programs that reduce our ecological footprint and promote self-sufficiency.”

The grant was made possible through a partnership among UOG, ASU, and Kamehameha Schools, all members of the Global Consortium for Sustainability Outcomes. The consortium is an international network of universities and research institutes advancing solutions to sustainability that the University of Guam was invited to join in July last year.

The workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 13, in Room 235 of the Jesus and Eugenia Leon Guerrero School of Business and Public Administration on the University of Guam campus. Registration is $25 per person and includes lunch. Those interested can register at uogcis.regfox.com/circular. Seating is limited. For more information, contact Myracle Mugol at (671) 482-0254 or mugolm@triton.uog.edu. A circular economy workshop will also be held in Hawaii.