CGSS USM ADVANCES SUSTAINABILITY EDUCATION THROUGH BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION AND TREE RELOCATION INITIATIVE AT ECO-HUB

UNIVERSITI SAINS MALAYSIA (USM), PENANG, 7 November 2026 – Recognising that sustainability begins with knowledge and translates into meaningful action, the Centre for Global Sustainability Studies (CGSS), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), organised the Knowledge Enrichment and Tree Relocation Programme from CGSS to Eco-HUB, USM, involving students from Gabungan Anak-Anak Pulau Pinang (GAPP) and the USM Entrepreneurship Class.

The programme served as an experiential learning platform to deepen participants' understanding of botanical diversity, environmental conservation and the interconnectedness of nature and sustainable development. Through direct engagement with botanical collections at Eco-HUB, participants were introduced to the functions and significance of various plant species, particularly their contributions to ecosystem balance, biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability.

A key focus of the programme was to establish a stronger connection between botanical knowledge and the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Participants were exposed to how the conservation of plant diversity and responsible environmental practices contribute to the global sustainability agenda, particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land). The programme highlighted the importance of integrating sustainability principles into everyday practices while nurturing a deeper appreciation of the natural environment among younger generations.

One of the key activities involved the relocation of existing plants from the CGSS premises to the Eco-HUB site. Beyond enhancing the green landscape, this initiative provided participants with practical exposure to plant handling, relocation and care, reinforcing the importance of responsible management of living resources. The activity also demonstrated how seemingly small environmental interventions can contribute to broader biodiversity conservation efforts and strengthen the role of green spaces as living learning environments.

The relocation activity received logistical support from the USM Development Department, particularly in facilitating the transportation of plants to the Eco-HUB site. This collaborative effort reflected the importance of institutional cooperation in translating sustainability commitments into tangible environmental initiatives.

In addition to environmental learning, the programme placed emphasis on developing teamwork, volunteerism and leadership among participants. Through active involvement in the relocation activities, students were encouraged to practise shared responsibility, cooperation and collective action. This approach reflects the principles of sustainability education, where knowledge is reinforced through participation, practical experience and a sense of responsibility towards the environment.

The programme was also attended by Dr. Haji Mohd Sayuti bin Hassan, Eco-HUB Adviser; Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Wira bin Mohd Shafiei, Director of CGSS; Dr. Mohd Sukri bin Shafie, Senior Principal Research Officer of CGSS; and Mr. Muhamad Sahaidan Rosli, General Assistant of CGSS.

Ultimately, the initiative reflects CGSS USM's continued commitment to advancing sustainability through education, biodiversity conservation and community engagement. By transforming botanical knowledge into practical environmental action, Eco-HUB serves as more than a green space; it represents a living platform for sustainability learning, where participants can understand, appreciate and actively contribute to environmental stewardship.

Through initiatives such as this, CGSS USM aims to foster a generation that is not only knowledgeable about sustainability challenges but also empowered to take meaningful action in protecting biodiversity, strengthening environmental resilience and advancing the SDGs towards a more sustainable future.

SDGs: 4, 11, 13 & 15

Teks / Photo : Syafiq Saifullah Azmi