The fourth International Symposium for the Establishment of Sustainable Campuses took place on 27 February. Around 140 people from across Japan and abroad, including researchers, students, business employees, and university staff involved in facilities planning, participated to discuss how to realize sustainable and environmentally friendly campuses.
This year's symposium focused on a variety of approaches and a shared core value toward the goal of realizing a sustainable campus. The title of the event "A firm pivot and a broad expanse of consciousness and action can advance campus sustainability: Developing wisdom from all ages and cultures like unfolding a fan" likens the broadening of approaches to a paper fan, and the shared core value to its pivot point.
Following the keynote speech by Mr Mahesh Pradhan of the United Nations Environment Programme, the panel discussion took place, highlighting two approaches: "smart" activities using advanced technologies, and "vernacular" ones using traditional or indigenous means that suit the climate and environment of a specific region. The keynote speaker, facilitator, and four panelists made cases for these approaches, and discussed the ways to integrate them to develop better ones. The audience actively engaged in the following Q and A, which further deepened the discussion on sustainability.
This year's symposium included student presentations for the first time. Ten groups spoke, followed by poster presentations where students and symposium participants vigorously exchanged views.
Panel discussion
Students' presentations
