List of Sustainable Actions

List of Sustainable Actions
Date/Time Department Name Occupation Description SDG
2025年04月22日 College of Liberal Arts ZiyueLyu student Project Title: Solar Lighting Retrofit for Campus Pathways

This project proposes replacing traditional electric streetlights on selected WKU campus pathways with solar-powered LED lighting systems, with the goal of promoting clean energy use and reducing long-term electricity consumption.

The new lights will be installed along key pedestrian routes, such as those connecting student dormitories, academic buildings, and the student activity center. Each lighting unit will be equipped with a solar panel and energy-efficient LED bulbs. The system will store solar energy during the day and automatically activate at night, ensuring reliable illumination without drawing power from the campus grid.

The project will begin with a pilot phase in a designated section of the campus. Throughout the trial, data on energy savings and CO₂ emissions reduction will be collected and displayed on nearby informational signs to increase student awareness of sustainable energy practices. If successful, the system can be expanded to cover additional areas of the campus.

Students from environmental or engineering-related clubs will be invited to participate in the planning, implementation, and monitoring of the system. Their responsibilities may include tracking the performance of the lights, conducting surveys on campus safety perceptions, and promoting the initiative through campus outreach events or social media.

This project not only improves campus infrastructure with renewable energy but also provides an educational opportunity for students to engage directly in climate action, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy. 		Goal 7: Affordable and clean energy
2025年04月22日 College of Business and Public Management LuohanZhou student The Campus Green Innovation Hub is a practical and creative sustainability project designed for university students to take real action on green development through industry, innovation, technology, and infrastructure. This hub will be a hands-on workshop space on campus where students from different majors can use recycled materials—like old electronics, wood, and plastics—to create useful and eco-friendly products such as solar-powered chargers, smart compost bins, and reusable stationery. The hub will offer basic tools, low-energy machines like 3D printers, and coding kits, encouraging teamwork between engineering, design, and environmental science students. Short training courses on green design, solar energy, and waste reuse will help build practical skills. The project will also connect with local communities and small businesses, allowing students to design simple green solutions like water-saving tools and smart waste bins. A digital platform will share student projects, provide open-source designs, and invite support from alumni and green companies. Over time, students will help build small green infrastructure on campus—such as solar-powered lighting or rainwater gardens—designed and maintained by themselves. A small fund will support the best ideas with extra training and start-up help. All student involvement can be recorded as innovation credits, making the project part of academic growth. This action not only improves sustainability on campus but also gives students a real chance to lead green change, turning their creativity into long-term environmental and social impact. Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, Technology and Infrastructure
2025年04月22日 College of Liberal Arts ZiyueLyu student Project Title: Senior Year Internship Course and Certification Program
Objective:
To provide senior-year students with a dedicated internship course, enabling them to gain practical work experience and receive an official internship certification upon successful completion. This will enhance their employability and competitive edge in the job market.
Project Description:
This project aims to introduce a mandatory internship course for senior-year students. During this course, students will complete an internship relevant to their field of study. After completing the internship, they will receive an official internship certification from the partnering company. This ensures that students accumulate real-world work experience before graduation, increasing their job opportunities.
Implementation Steps:
Course Design and Partnerships:
Establish Corporate Partnerships: Collaborate with various companies to provide high-quality internship placements for students. The internships will be aligned with students' majors, such as business management, engineering, finance, marketing, and more.
Course Content Arrangement: Design a course that combines both internship experience and classroom learning. The course will include pre-internship training (e.g., career planning, resume writing, interview skills), during-internship project management and reflection, and post-internship reports.
Credit and Internship Certification: Students will earn academic credits for completing the internship, submitting an internship report, and undergoing performance evaluations. Upon successful completion, students will receive an official internship certificate issued by the company.
Student Participation:
Internship Opportunity Posting: At the beginning of the academic year, WKU will collaborate with partner companies to publish internship openings, which students can apply for via the university's career services platform. Students will select positions based on their interests and academic field.
Assigned Faculty Advisors: Each student will be assigned a faculty advisor to monitor their internship progress, maintain communication with both the student and the company, and ensure they make the most of their internship experience.
Career Development Support: During the course, students will attend workshops on career development, including job application techniques, company culture, and professional skills, helping them better adapt to the workplace environment.
Evaluation and Feedback:
Internship Performance Assessment: Both the company mentor and faculty advisor will assess the student's performance, considering work output, project completion, and interpersonal skills.
Course Feedback: Students and companies will provide feedback to improve the course structure, internship opportunities, and collaboration with partner companies.
Expected Outcomes:
Students will gain practical work experience and enhance their employability before graduation.
Students will receive an official internship certificate, providing them with a recognized proof of their work experience.
Companies will have the opportunity to discover and nurture potential talent, strengthening their talent pool. 		Goal 8: Decent work and economic growth
2025年04月22日 College of Liberal Arts ZiyueLyu student Project Title: WKU Smart Campus Infrastructure Development

Objective:
To transform WKU's campus into a "smart campus" by integrating innovative technologies and sustainable infrastructure that enhances campus operations, student experiences, and promotes research in the field of innovation and technology.

Project Description:
This project will focus on upgrading WKU’s campus infrastructure using cutting-edge technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), smart energy systems, and AI-driven tools, to create a smarter, more efficient campus environment. The initiative will involve the installation of smart lighting, IoT-based waste management, and energy-efficient systems to reduce energy consumption, improve campus services, and contribute to the development of innovative solutions for future urban infrastructure.

Implementation Steps:

Smart Lighting and Energy Systems:

Install Smart Lighting: Replace traditional lighting systems with energy-efficient LED lights equipped with motion sensors and smart control systems. These lights will adjust brightness based on real-time needs and time of day, reducing energy consumption.

Deploy Smart Energy Management: Implement smart meters and energy management systems to monitor and optimize electricity usage across campus buildings. The system will allow real-time tracking of energy consumption and promote energy-saving habits.

IoT-Based Waste Management:

Install Smart Waste Bins: Introduce IoT-enabled waste bins that use sensors to detect waste levels and send data to a central system. This system will optimize waste collection routes and schedules, improving efficiency and reducing carbon emissions associated with waste management.

Recycling Awareness and Optimization: Use technology to promote better recycling practices among students and staff by providing real-time data on waste streams, helping the campus transition to more sustainable practices.

AI-Driven Campus Services:

Deploy AI Chatbots for Campus Services: Develop AI-powered chatbots to handle student inquiries related to campus services, including library hours, event schedules, and academic resources. The chatbots will improve accessibility to information and reduce administrative workloads.

AI-Based Parking Management: Use AI systems to manage parking on campus, including real-time availability tracking and automated parking guidance for students, faculty, and visitors.

Research and Innovation Hub:

Create an Innovation Lab: Establish a dedicated space on campus for students and faculty to work on tech-driven projects that align with the university’s goals for innovation. The lab will focus on IoT, AI, and sustainable technologies, fostering collaboration and entrepreneurship.

Partnerships with Tech Companies: Partner with leading tech companies and startups to provide resources, mentorship, and research opportunities for students and faculty involved in tech innovation projects.

Student Involvement:

Tech Clubs and Projects: Encourage students from technology, engineering, and design programs to participate in the development and implementation of the smart campus infrastructure, providing them with real-world experience and fostering innovation.

Internships and Research Opportunities: Create internship programs within the innovation lab, giving students hands-on experience in developing smart technologies and solutions.

Expected Outcomes:

Improved energy efficiency and reduced operational costs across the campus.

Increased student engagement with technology and innovation through hands-on projects and research.

Enhanced campus services, leading to a more efficient and user-friendly environment for students, staff, and visitors.

Contribution to the field of smart campus technology, providing a model for other universities and institutions to follow.

Expansion Potential:

The project can be expanded to include additional smart technologies, such as autonomous delivery robots, smart classrooms, and augmented reality (AR) learning tools.

It could also be scaled to include neighboring communities or regional campuses, creating a larger smart infrastructure network. 		Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, Technology and Infrastructure
2025年04月22日 College of Liberal Arts ZiyueLyu student Project Title: WKU Community Integration and Support Program

Objective:
To reduce inequalities on and around the WKU campus by providing educational support, career development, and community engagement opportunities to underrepresented groups, including low-income students, first-generation college students, and students from marginalized backgrounds.

Project Description:
This project focuses on creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for students from underprivileged backgrounds. It will offer tailored support services, mentorship, and workshops that address barriers to education, personal development, and career advancement. By improving access to education and resources, this initiative aims to reduce inequalities and ensure that all students have the same opportunities for success.

Implementation Steps:

Scholarships and Financial Support:

Need-Based Scholarships: Establish new scholarship funds specifically for low-income and first-generation college students to alleviate the financial burden of tuition and other educational expenses.

Emergency Financial Assistance: Create a fund to provide emergency financial assistance for students facing unforeseen financial difficulties, ensuring that no student has to drop out due to financial hardship.

Mentorship and Peer Support:

Mentorship Program: Pair students from underrepresented backgrounds with faculty, alumni, or upperclassmen who can offer guidance on academic, career, and personal development. The program will include regular check-ins, skill-building workshops, and networking opportunities.

Peer Support Networks: Create peer-led support groups where students from similar backgrounds can share experiences, challenges, and solutions, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Career Development and Internship Opportunities:

Internship Placement Assistance: Partner with local businesses, organizations, and government entities to offer internship opportunities specifically for underrepresented students. These internships will provide real-world experience and increase employability.

Job Readiness Workshops: Organize workshops that cover resume building, interview preparation, and job search strategies, specifically designed to address the unique challenges faced by students from marginalized groups.

Inclusive Learning Environment:

Accessible Learning Resources: Ensure that all learning materials, both physical and digital, are accessible to students with disabilities or those who face other learning barriers. This includes providing textbooks in alternative formats, using assistive technologies, and creating flexible learning options.

Cultural Sensitivity Training: Provide training for faculty and staff on cultural sensitivity, inclusive teaching methods, and addressing unconscious bias to create a more inclusive learning environment for all students.

Community Engagement and Outreach:

Community Partnerships: Collaborate with local schools, community centers, and NGOs to offer mentorship and tutoring for high school students from underserved communities, helping them prepare for college and providing a pipeline of support for future WKU students.

Student Volunteer Opportunities: Encourage WKU students to engage in community service projects aimed at reducing inequality, such as tutoring, advocacy, and outreach programs in local marginalized communities.

Expected Outcomes:

Increased enrollment and retention rates for underrepresented students at WKU.

Greater sense of belonging and inclusion for students from marginalized backgrounds.

Improved career outcomes for underprivileged students through internships, mentorship, and job readiness support.

Strengthened community partnerships and increased outreach to local underserved populations.

Expansion Potential:

The program can be expanded to include other forms of support, such as mental health resources, affordable housing initiatives, and partnerships with other universities or organizations focused on reducing inequality.

The model can be scaled to include more diverse communities or regional outreach efforts aimed at high school students from underserved areas.

Alignment with SDG Goals: This project directly supports UN SDG Goal 10: Reduced Inequality, by providing equal educational and career opportunities to underrepresented students, promoting social inclusion, and ensuring that all students have the support they need to succeed, regardless of their background.

 Goal 10: Reduced inequality
2025年04月22日 College of Liberal Arts ZiyueLyu student Project Title: WKU Green Campus Sustainability Initiative

Objective:
To create a more sustainable and environmentally friendly campus by implementing green infrastructure, promoting sustainable practices, and engaging the WKU community in environmental conservation efforts. The initiative aims to reduce WKU's ecological footprint and foster a culture of sustainability among students, faculty, and staff.

Project Description:
The WKU Green Campus Sustainability Initiative will focus on transforming the campus environment through green infrastructure projects, sustainable waste management, and renewable energy solutions. The initiative will also engage students and staff in sustainability education and community outreach to promote environmental responsibility and create a lasting impact on the local community.

Implementation Steps:

Green Infrastructure and Landscaping:

Planting Green Spaces: Increase green spaces on campus by planting more trees, creating community gardens, and improving existing green areas. These spaces will help absorb CO₂, improve air quality, and provide areas for relaxation and recreation.

Rainwater Harvesting Systems: Install rainwater harvesting systems on campus buildings to capture and store rainwater for irrigation, reducing the need for potable water and conserving water resources.

Green Roofs: Implement green roofs on selected campus buildings to improve insulation, reduce energy consumption, and provide habitat for local wildlife.

Sustainable Waste Management:

Zero-Waste Program: Introduce a zero-waste initiative to reduce campus waste. This will include improved recycling programs, composting initiatives for organic waste, and waste diversion campaigns.

Eco-Friendly Packaging: Work with campus food vendors to reduce single-use plastics by promoting sustainable packaging options like compostable containers, reusable cups, and cutlery.

E-Waste Recycling: Set up e-waste collection stations across campus where students and staff can drop off old electronics for recycling and safe disposal.

Renewable Energy Solutions:

Solar Panel Installation: Install solar panels on key campus buildings to generate clean, renewable energy. The panels will help reduce reliance on fossil fuels and contribute to a greener campus.

Energy Efficiency Upgrades: Retrofit campus buildings with energy-efficient lighting, HVAC systems, and insulation to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Sustainability Education and Awareness:

Workshops and Events: Organize workshops, seminars, and events on sustainability topics, such as renewable energy, eco-friendly living, and sustainable transportation. These will be aimed at educating students, faculty, and staff about the importance of sustainability in daily life.

Sustainability Ambassador Program: Launch a program where students can become Sustainability Ambassadors, helping to spread awareness, organize eco-friendly events, and encourage others to adopt sustainable practices on campus.

Community Engagement and Outreach:

Local Partnerships: Collaborate with local environmental organizations, government agencies, and businesses to expand sustainability efforts in the surrounding community. This could include joint clean-up events, tree-planting campaigns, and educational outreach programs.

Community Sustainability Projects: Create opportunities for students and staff to participate in community sustainability projects, such as urban gardening, renewable energy installations, and environmental education for local schools. 		Goal 11: Sustainable cities and communities
2025年04月22日 College of Business and Public Management JiayingWu student In order to protect "life on land", we need to pay attention to issues such as the biodiversity on land and whether the land is polluted. We can start taking action from small things. Find a piece of land within or around the school that is polluted or has relatively poor biodiversity and carry out land conservation. We can regularly observe whether there is garbage on the land, measure the PH value of the land, and plant plants to restore the land. Regular records can also be made and posted on the school's campus forum to attract widespread attention and make everyone aware of the importance of protecting life on land. Goal 15: Life on land
2025年04月22日 College of Business and Public Management HuitaiCao student Project name: AlmostFresh
1. Core idea of the project:
Let "wasted" food return to the market, so that consumers can eat cheaply and merchants can sell easily.
2. Background:
Faced with the increasingly serious problem of food waste in cities, especially in the catering and baking industries, goods such as bread and cooked food have a short shelf life and are often forced to be discarded if they are not sold out on the same day. At the same time, more and more consumers, especially young people and urban workers, pursue "eating well and not expensive" in their diet; while merchants are facing operating pressures such as inventory backlogs and limited capital turnover. At a time when the concept of green consumption is constantly being advocated, reducing food waste has become a consensus for sustainable urban development. Therefore, creating an online platform that focuses on discounted sales of near-expiry foods can not only help merchants deal with food that is about to expire and reduce their operating burden, but also allow consumers to obtain high-quality food at a more favorable price, while promoting the implementation of environmental protection concepts, which can be said to kill two birds with one stone.
3. Solution
Right now, a lot of restaurants, bakeries, and convenience stores throw away food just because it didn’t sell before the day ends—even if it’s still totally good to eat. It’s a waste, both economically and environmentally. So, I want to build a simple discount app that helps businesses sell their expiring food at lower prices before it goes to waste. Think of it like a last-minute deal platform for food that’s “still good today, maybe not tomorrow.” People can buy tasty stuff for cheap, and businesses can reduce losses instead of throwing things away. Plus, it fits really well with the whole “green lifestyle” trend. This idea is practical, good for your wallet, and good for the planet.
4. Main Features
The app has two sides: for sellers and for buyers. Merchants like bakeries or restaurants can upload food that’s about to expire that day and set discounts—like 30%, 50%, or more. They can update items anytime and choose pickup times. On the buyer’s side, users can open the app and see nearby deals based on their location. They can browse food by category, price, or how soon it’ll expire. Then they can place an order online and pick it up at the store. It’s simple and quick. The whole idea is to make saving food feel rewarding and easy.
5. Marketing
For marketing, there are a few simple ways we could try to get the word out. One idea is to start on our Wenzhou-Kean university campuses, since students usually care about saving money and are open to new things. We might work with school canteens or small shops near dorms to test the idea and see how people respond. On social media, we could try casual campaigns like sharing discounted food finds or mini challenges around reducing waste—just something fun that fits with everyday life. It might also be helpful to connect with environmental groups or student clubs that care about sustainability. For offline promotion, maybe we could put up posters or QR codes near subways, in cafés, or outside bakeries that join the platform. Overall, to grow the platform step by step, we could focus on people who already care about saving money or being eco-friendly.
 Goal 2: Zero hunger
2025年04月22日 College of Business and Public Management XiaoxiXu student At Wenzhou Kean University (WKU), one impactful Green Idea for advancing the SDG "Life Below Water" would be the establishment of a comprehensive campus-wide initiative aimed at reducing plastic pollution and raising awareness about the importance of protecting our oceans. This could begin by implementing a "Plastic-Free WKU" campaign, encouraging students, staff, and faculty to reduce their use of single-use plastics, such as bottles, straws, and packaging, in favor of reusable alternatives.
The university can partner with local environmental organizations to host educational events and workshops about the impact of plastic waste on marine ecosystems. Students could be invited to participate in hands-on activities such as creating eco-friendly alternatives to plastic products or crafting art from recycled materials to raise awareness about the issue. Additionally, WKU could organize a regular “Clean Up the Waters” event, where students participate in cleaning up local rivers or lakes, helping to prevent waste from reaching larger bodies of water, like the oceans.
To further integrate this initiative into campus life, WKU could establish dedicated recycling stations around campus, specifically designed for plastic waste, and provide educational signage on the importance of proper recycling. Incorporating water bottle refill stations throughout campus would also encourage students to reduce their dependence on bottled water.
Furthermore, WKU’s student organizations could collaborate with other universities or international groups on campaigns related to ocean conservation. Students could engage in research projects focused on water quality, marine life, and pollution, providing a platform for WKU to contribute to the global effort to protect marine biodiversity.
By focusing on reducing campus plastic consumption and fostering awareness about marine conservation, WKU can create a sustainable model that not only benefits the local community but also contributes to the larger global movement towards protecting life below water. This initiative would not only help preserve oceans but also instill in students a deep sense of responsibility for the health of the planet and the species that rely on its oceans.
It focuses on reducing ocean pollution by promoting sustainable practices in daily life. One approach is encouraging the use of biodegradable alternatives to plastic, such as plant-based packaging and reusable containers. Implementing coastal clean-up initiatives with community involvement can also help reduce waste entering the ocean. Additionally, supporting marine protected areas and responsible fishing practices ensures the preservation of aquatic ecosystems. Educating the public about the importance of reducing chemical runoff and conserving marine biodiversity will empower individuals to make more environmentally conscious choices, leading to healthier oceans. 		Goal 14: Life below water
2025年04月22日 College of Business and Public Management ChenghuiCai student 1. Inclusive International Environment
WKU offers an English-speaking environment that welcomes students from diverse socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. Through need-based scholarships, academic support programs, and international exchange opportunities, the university ensures that no student is left behind due to language, financial, or cultural barriers.

2. Student-Led Diversity & Inclusion Programs
Student clubs and organizations actively host events such as "Cultural Diversity Week," "LGBTQ+ Awareness Forums," and “Gender Equality Workshops.” These initiatives foster mutual respect and educate students about different identities and perspectives—helping reduce prejudice and social inequality on campus.

3. Community Outreach and Social Service
WKU students and faculty collaborate with local NGOs and rural schools to organize volunteer teaching, mental health support, and digital literacy workshops for underserved groups such as migrant children and elderly villagers. These actions empower marginalized populations and bridge urban-rural inequality.

4. Accessible Learning Resources
The WKU library and digital platforms provide free access to a wide range of academic databases, journals, and learning tools. The university also offers academic writing centers and English tutoring, supporting students who face language or skill-based disadvantages.

5. Empowerment Through Entrepreneurship
WKU encourages all students—including those from low-income backgrounds—to participate in innovation and entrepreneurship competitions, offering mentorship and seed funding. Programs like the “Student Innovation & Entrepreneurship Incubation Base” help reduce the economic barriers to starting a business.

6. Support for Students with Disabilities
The WKU Office of Student Affairs works closely with faculty and staff to provide accommodation support for students with disabilities, including flexible exams, accessible facilities, and emotional support services—ensuring equitable learning opportunities for all.

7. Cross-Cultural Exchange and Dialogue
The presence of international faculty and students from various countries fosters everyday cultural exchange. Courses like Global Ethics, Intercultural Communication, and Contemporary Social Issues deepen awareness of global inequality and inspire students to take meaningful action.

Through a blend of academic support, student-led initiatives, and community engagement, WKU actively contributes to achieving Goal 10: Reduced Inequality. By empowering individuals across income, gender, ability, and cultural lines, the university is nurturing a future generation of inclusive, compassionate global citizens. 		Goal 10: Reduced inequality
2025年04月22日 College of Business and Public Management YuehanZhao student Aligned with SDG Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals, the “Campus Green Alliance” aims to unite the Center, Arts Center, and Sports Center to promote sustainability through cross-functional collaboration. The Center will lead educational efforts by organizing seminars, green innovation workshops, and partnerships with local environmental organizations. This knowledge-sharing component ensures students and staff understand key sustainability issues and are equipped to take action.
The Arts Center will transform this awareness into creative engagement. Hosting eco-themed exhibitions, recycled art installations, and film screenings on climate topics fosters emotional connections to environmental concerns. Events like “Green Gallery Night” will encourage student and community participation, turning sustainability into a shared artistic narrative. Meanwhile, the Sports Center will promote green practices through physical activity, such as eco-marathons, zero-waste sports events, and “Green Gym Days” that reward environmentally friendly behaviors.
Together, the three centers will co-host events, share resources, and promote a unified message of sustainability. This alliance highlights the power of interdisciplinary cooperation, offering students diverse ways to participate—from learning and creating to moving and doing. By integrating knowledge, art, and action, the Campus Green Alliance is a replicable model for institutions striving to embed sustainability across all aspects of campus life. 		Goal 17: Partnerships for the goals Center, Arts Center, Sports Center)
2025年04月22日 College of Liberal Arts HangyuChen student SDG 1: No Poverty — “Waste Less, Give More” Plan: Regular Charity Markets & On-Campus Donation Stations
At Wenzhou-Kean University, many students enjoy a relatively high standard of living, and frequently replace clothing, electronics, and personal items. However, there is a common issue: many items that are still functional—but slightly worn—end up being discarded due to a lack of convenient donation or recycling channels. As a result, usable goods are often thrown away, contributing to waste while missing the opportunity to support those in need.
To address this, we propose establishing permanent donation stations across campus, especially in high-traffic areas such as residence halls, student centers, and academic buildings. Donation bins will be clearly labeled by category (e.g., clothing, electronics, books, miscellaneous) and checked regularly by a student-led sustainability team.
In addition, we suggest organizing two to three large-scale “Campus Charity Markets” each year, where donated items will be sorted, priced, and sold by volunteers. All proceeds will be donated to nonprofit organizations that support education and poverty alleviation in underdeveloped rural areas in China—for example, to fund book drives or supply kits for village schools. Unsold items can be further donated via external recycling platforms or social organizations. One-on-one assistance can also be provided to rural poor schools.
This initiative not only reduces waste on campus, but also cultivates a culture of giving and environmental responsibility. Through regular, organized action, students are empowered to transform personal surplus into meaningful social impact. 		Goal 1: No Poverty
2025年04月22日 College of Liberal Arts HangyuChen student SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being — Green Fitness Incentive Program: Overcoming Distance, Rekindling Motivation
Despite Wenzhou-Kean University’s high-quality facilities, many students lack the motivation to exercise regularly. This is due in part to the absence of mandatory fitness programs like “campus runs,” which are common in other Chinese universities. More importantly, the university's sports complex is located far from the dormitories, making spontaneous or casual workouts inconvenient for many students.
To address this, we propose launching a Green Fitness Incentive Program, aimed at encouraging healthy routines without requiring long-distance travel or rigid schedules. Key components include:
1.Stair-Climbing Points in Dormitories
QR codes are installed on staircases in residence halls to encourage students to take the stairs instead of elevators. Points are awarded for each scan, and can be redeemed for eco-friendly rewards such as reusable water bottles, fruit vouchers, or dining discounts.
2.“One-Minute Fitness” Flash Zones
At strategic locations such as the sports complex entrance, we set up small fitness areas equipped with jump ropes, yoga mats, or signage for short exercises (e.g., planks, squats). Students are encouraged to complete 1-minute tasks and log their participation, which counts toward monthly fitness milestones and recognition.
3.“No Elevator Days” & “Eco-Ride to Gym” Events
Host occasional “No Elevator Days” to raise awareness of energy consumption and promote healthy habits. Meanwhile, “Eco-Ride to Gym” events will encourage students to bike from dorms to the sports complex, with route checkpoints offering participation stamps and rewards.
4.Sustainable Eating Linked to Health Education
In collaboration with campus dining services, launch “Healthy Eating Week” and “Meatless Mondays.” Information panels and digital guides will be placed in dining halls, educating students about the health and environmental benefits of balanced, low-carbon diets.
By combining health promotion with low-carbon habits, this initiative supports a holistic, sustainable campus lifestyle. It lowers barriers to fitness while building a positive feedback loop through visibility, flexibility, and tangible incentives. 		Goal 3: Good health and well-being
2025年04月22日 College of Liberal Arts HangyuChen student SDG 4: Quality Education — “One Course, One Question” Student Knowledge Co-Creation Plan
At Wenzhou-Kean University, most courses follow American university curricula due to our Sino-foreign cooperative education model. Course materials, lectures, and key concepts are typically based on English-language textbooks. As a result, many specialized subjects—such as Communication, Finance, and Computer Science—lack accessible supplementary resources on Chinese platforms. Furthermore, the complexity of technical terms and the academic depth of these courses often pose significant learning challenges.
Although WKU offers a tutor support system, the limited number of tutors, high appointment demand, and lack of available classrooms and time slots make it difficult for many students to receive timely help.
To improve the accessibility and sustainability of academic support, we propose implementing the “One Course, One Question” Student Knowledge Co-Creation Plan, with the following structure:
Project Structure and Implementation
1. Post-Class Knowledge Co-Creation Mechanism
Each course instructor or teaching assistant will identify a core concept or challenging topic at midterm or final stages. Students enrolled in the course will be invited to produce knowledge outputs based on their personal understanding.
Acceptable output formats include (but are not limited to):
Bilingual notes featuring Chinese explanations and English terminology;
Infographics or illustrated concept maps;
2-minute video summaries explaining key course points;
Printable revision booklets created via PowerPoint or Canva.
2. Creation of a “WKU Student Knowledge Hub” Online Platform
Spearheaded by the library or the Student Affairs Office, a dedicated digital platform (web-based or mini-program) will be developed for students to upload and access reviewed co-created content. Each submission will be labeled with the course title, semester, author, and searchable keywords for easy navigation.
3. “Knowledge Ambassador” Incentive Program
At the end of each semester, outstanding contributors will be recognized as “WKU Knowledge Ambassadors.” They will receive incentives such as scholarships, campus merchandise, or recommendation letters. This title can be included in students’ resumes or academic portfolios for official recognition.
4. Integration with the Tutor System
Exceptional student-created materials will be made available to the tutoring team as supplementary instructional content. Additionally, a hybrid model combining “shared knowledge + tutor Q&A” will be promoted to ease the burden on the limited tutor system and improve learning efficiency. 		Goal 4: Quality education
2025年04月22日 One Seed, One Meal
As a sustainability initiative, the project utilizes the WKU campus farm to promote local agriculture while supporting social equity. Students assist in planting fruits and vegetables, and each participation is recorded via an app-linked QR code. The collected data contributes to a partnered charity's fundraising system, where the total participation count drives donations for nutritious meals to children in rural areas. This “plant-to-donate” model encourages sustainable behavior through community farming, reduces food inequality, and fosters environmental awareness. By integrating with ENV and MGS courses, and offering academic incentives like bonus points, the project ensures long-term engagement and links hands-on sustainability practices with real-world social impact. 		Goal 2: Zero hunger
2025年04月22日 College of Business and Public Management xinyuefang student One Seed, One Meal
As a sustainability initiative, the project utilizes the WKU campus farm to promote local agriculture while supporting social equity. Students assist in planting fruits and vegetables, and each participation is recorded via an app-linked QR code. The collected data contributes to a partnered charity's fundraising system, where the total participation count drives donations for nutritious meals to children in rural areas. This “plant-to-donate” model encourages sustainable behavior through community farming, reduces food inequality, and fosters environmental awareness. By integrating with ENV and MGS courses, and offering academic incentives like bonus points, the project ensures long-term engagement and links hands-on sustainability practices with real-world social impact. 		Goal 2: Zero hunger
2025年04月22日 College of Business and Public Management xinyuefang student the AquaGuard Action
The AquaGuard Campus Water Monitoring Initiative promotes sustainability by combining environmental education with practical water management actions. Through regular monitoring of drinking water, rainwater, and nearby water bodies, students gather data that contributes to a visualized water quality database. This initiative encourages water conservation practices such as rainwater reuse, reduces reliance on bottled water, and provides data-driven insights for improving campus water resources. By publishing Campus Water Health Reports and hosting related outreach activities, the project not only raises awareness of water quality issues but also fosters long-term environmental responsibility, making a meaningful contribution to both sustainable campus practices and broader environmental goals. 		Goal 6: Clean water and sanitation
2025年04月22日 College of Business and Public Management XiyueZhang student Promoting and Implementing the Green Packaging Recycling System at the WKU Express Station
In response to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production), I have actively participated in the green packaging recycling initiative at the WKU express station. Through practical actions, I aim to raise environmental awareness and improve recycling efficiency on campus.
I first observed that although a recycling bag is currently provided at the express station, the lack of clear classification leads to packaging waste being improperly or mixed recycled. To address this issue, I collaborated with my classmates to design illustrated recycling guides (including categories for cardboard, foam, and plastic materials). With permission from the school, we posted these guides around the express pickup area to help students correctly sort and dispose of packaging waste.
Additionally, we reached out to the Office of Student Affairs and received initial support for organizing volunteers during peak delivery hours. These volunteers will guide students through the correct sorting process and distribute reusable eco-friendly bags to encourage a reduction in plastic use. We also created a survey to collect students’ feedback and suggestions on improving the recycling system, which we plan to submit to the Campus Sustainability Center by the end of the month.
Furthermore, we will participate in the upcoming SDG-themed sharing event to share our real experiences and insights on the current status and proposed improvements of the express station recycling system. We hope to inspire more students to join this initiative.
Through these small yet impactful actions, I aim to foster a culture of responsible consumption on campus and make categorized recycling a regular habit for every WKU student. 		Goal 12: Responsible consumption and production
2025年04月22日 College of Liberal Arts HaoranSun student Name for whole idea: WKU x WCU. Wenzhou-Kean University is a Wildlife Caring Union
Background:
The only Earth is home to all living things, and the survival relationships of each species are closely linked and influence each other. Even though the earth has a strong natural resilience to recover its ecology, excessive destruction by human activities is still the leading cause of ecological damage in the natural environment. This leads to a decrease in biodiversity and an imbalance of more species, further affecting the living conditions and social and economic stability of all mankind.
Importance: At present, the rate of decline in biodiversity is faster than at any time in human history, and people need to pay attention to it.
The decline of biodiversity is closely related to human activities such as carbon emissions, excessive deforestation, and sewage discharge. The issue of biodiversity is caused by excessive deforestation and humans' overuse of natural resources. The root cause lies in the interests behind industries and the weak sustainability awareness of the general public. We have analyzed that the most important problems among them are, on the one hand, the lack of sufficient economic incentives to avoid human destruction and pollution problems, and on the other hand, the lack of education and popular science. The following are three schemes to solve this problem based on WKU's current conditions.
First, based on the situation of WKU, WKU can establish the WCU (Wildlife Caring Union) wildlife protection organization, set up science popularization notice boards for wild animals and endangered animals at appropriate locations on campus, and set up wildlife homes along the roadside to place food and water. We can also hold "Endangered Animal Storytelling Sessions" - telling stories about endangered animals or "My Story with Wild Animals", to stimulate thinking and discussion among students, foster a sense of sustainable development in students’ minds, and foster a sustainable development cultural atmosphere at WKU.
Second, based on the situation of WKU, we have organizations such as the Sustainable Development Association, the Student Media Center, the Green Campus Creation Leading Group, and the Asian Industrial Competitiveness Research Institute. We organize business presentations and roadshows for the Wildlife Caring Union on funding planning and investment, and conduct social fundraising from entrepreneurs and local related enterprises. Participate in entrepreneurial activities or contact angel investors to raise funds.
On the one hand, it is to utilize personal connections, leverage the power of the alumni association, and widely distribute advertising emails to invite participants to attend business plan presentations to gain support. On the other hand, Wenzhou-Kean University released a promotional video about sustainable development made by a student team on social media and posted a fundraising link after the video, asking everyone to support WKU's sustainable development cause and expecting to see returns in the future. After the funds are prepared or the financing is completed, the Department of Architecture and the College of Science and Engineering of WKU form a project team of teachers and students to design sustainable and creative products. Afterwards, Wenzhou-Kean University will assist the project team in collaborating with relevant social enterprises to produce, which will help students commercialize their sustainable and creative products and create value. These products will also be given priority to fund donors and Wenzhou-Kean University. These products are designed by the teachers and students of Wenzhou-Kean University for environmental protection and green development, including water circulation systems, solar power supply, new energy products, interdisciplinary creativity in biology and computer science, etc.
Third, because the sustainable development industry is not transparent to the general public, there are related problems. Based on the WKU Center for Communication Studies and Media, student interns were recruited, and investigation teams were established to shoot documentaries and post them on social media, aiming to expose bad companies and unethical industrial chains.
Function and Influence:
It is based on the existing resources, connections, and historical experience of Wenzhou-Kean University, relying on the advantages of Sino-US cooperative education, and making use of advanced social media and networks.
The WCU mentioned in Method One, which aims to protect life on land, on the one hand, can form a long-term sustainable development culture on campus, and on the other hand, can promote the sustainable development measures of Wenzhou-Kean University on social media, actively responding to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.
The social fundraising of Method Two not only reflects the appeal of Wenzhou-Kean University for sustainable development, but also closely links sustainable development with students' development and entrepreneurship. This fully provides students with space and opportunities to exert their creativity and apply academic theories to practice. After turning ideas into practical products through the fund, WKU students, society, and the natural world all benefit. This is a model of win-win cooperation between environmental protection and the social economy.
Method Three will employ content marketing and social media, attempting to make the stories, development, and evaluation processes behind this industrial chain public to the general public, so that people can have a clearer understanding of the progress and efforts towards the Sustainable Development Goals. This will further enhance the public's confidence in sustainable development and make the implementation of the industrial chain more standardized and clearer. Method three is actually the one that has the greatest impact on corruption and society among these points, because it is directly related to whether people have made many efforts for the environment and whether these efforts have been truly implemented as people envisioned. Even if there is no direct environmental benefit, it has an important positive effect in places that are not visible to the public after the public has taken green actions at front end.
The above schemes are some practical implementation plans of Wenzhou-Kean University based on the current situation for the 15th Sustainable Development Goal of the United Nations - Life on Land. The aim is to effectively address these two problems that pose the greatest threat to biodiversity: on the one hand, the lack of sufficient economic incentives to prevent human destruction and pollution; on the other hand, the absence of education and popular science.
Assessment: Results can be obtained through questionnaire distribution, public responses on specific effects, as well as data from the official website of Wenzhou-Kean University, and analysis by the administrative department.
The criteria for consideration are to compare the biodiversity of the same period with the publicly available environmental data from third-party institutions, etc. Professional standards should be left to professionals to set.
 Goal 15: Life on land
2025年04月22日 College of Business and Public Management YiYang student To uphold the rights of vegetarians and ensure equitable food choices on campus, I propose a series of actionable initiatives aimed at enhancing vegetarian accessibility and promoting sustainability.
First, a dedicated vegetarian food window should be established to provide consistent and reliable access to plant-based meals, ensuring that vegetarians are not limited by the current meat-dominated menu.
Second, the serving order in cafeterias can be rearranged, placing vegetarian dishes before meat options to reduce wait time for vegetarians and subtly encourage more students to try plant-based meals, thereby promoting a shift toward low-impact eating habits.
Third, vegetarian options should be positioned in high-traffic areas, increasing visibility and normalizing plant-based eating as part of everyday campus life.
Fourth, to enhance transparency and respect for dietary preferences, clear vegetarian labels should be added to all relevant dishes across campus dining facilities, helping both vegetarians and flexitarians make informed and confident choices.
Fifth, the university can collaborate with local vegetarian restaurants to host a campus-wide Vegetarian Food Festival, exposing students to diverse plant-based cuisines and building community support for sustainable food systems.
Finally, organizing special vegetarian-themed lectures by nutritionists, sustainability experts, or ethical advocates can provide students with the knowledge and inspiration to make environmentally and ethically conscious dietary decisions.
Together, these measures not only reduce dietary inequity, but also foster a more inclusive, sustainable, and health-conscious campus culture, where individual choices are respected and systemic change is supported. 		Goal 10: Reduced inequality