The 4th ISLMS 2026 Concludes in Taiwan, Empowering Global Youth to Drive Sustainable Campus Transformation
Pingtung, Taiwan, 15–17 July 2026 — 38 student delegates from 12 countries across Asia, Europe, and the Americas convened at National Pingtung University of Science and Technology (NPUST), Taiwan, for the 4th International Student Leaders Meeting on Sustainability (ISLMS) 2026, co-organized by UI GreenMetric and NPUST. Under the theme "Global Youth Leadership for Sustainable Campuses: Driving Innovation, Collaboration, and Digital Action," the four-day program provided a global platform for young leaders to exchange ideas, strengthen international networks, and develop actionable solutions to advance sustainability in higher education.
The event commenced with welcoming remarks from Dr.-Ing. Chin-Lung Chang, President of NPUST, who emphasized the critical role universities play in preparing future generations to address global environmental challenges through innovation and international cooperation. Representing UI GreenMetric, Chairperson Dr. Vishnu Juwono S.E. M I.A. reminded delegates that sustainability begins with individual accountability. Adapting a classic call to action—"Don't ask what the Earth can do for you; ask what you can do for the Earth"—he encouraged participants to recognize themselves as active changemakers whose daily choices drive meaningful environmental impact. The opening ceremony concluded with a commemorative gift exchange between leadership and a group photograph, symbolizing a shared commitment to advancing sustainable higher education.
The academic sessions opened with a keynote address by Dr. Abellia Anggi Wardani S.Hum. M.A., Vice-Chairperson of UI GreenMetric, on "The Role of Students in Sustainability." She underscored that students are no longer mere participants in campus initiatives, but key drivers of institutional policy and social transformation. The session included the UI GreenMetric Sustainability Quiz, where high-scoring delegates received official merchandise. Additional keynotes broadened the scope of discussion across policy, technology, and advocacy: Dr. Hung-Jeng Tsai from National Sun Yat-sen University discussed sustainable development pathways; Ms. Cheer Chen, Co-founder and CEO of Azure Alliance, showcased technological innovations to mitigate marine plastic debris in the Indo-Pacific; and Mr. Chih-Wei Wu, Director General of the Energy Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs of Taiwan, presented Taiwan’s policy roadmap toward achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Translating insights into practical strategies, delegates participated in seven Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) aligned with the core UI GreenMetric criteria: Setting and Infrastructure, Energy and Climate Change, Waste, Water, Transportation, Education and Research, and Governance and Digitalization. Guided by international mentors, participants examined campus challenges, exchanged best practices, and delivered group presentations outlining recommendations to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within higher education.
Beyond the conference hall, delegates experienced hands-on sustainability through experiential learning activities across NPUST's campus. At the Wildlife Animal Rescue Center, participants observed university-led biodiversity conservation and animal rehabilitation efforts. A workshop on pineapple fiber paper demonstrated circular economy principles by converting agricultural waste into sustainable materials, while visits to the Agricultural Machinery Training Center and an autonomous shuttle demonstration showcased smart technologies for food security and modern campus mobility.
The 4th ISLMS 2026 concluded with a closing ceremony that featured the presentation of an International Youth Declaration, in which student representatives reaffirmed their collective commitment to climate action by signing said declaration. After the signing, the best Outstanding Active Participants are announced, those are:
- Jann Pers Estanero Lagman (Philippines)
- Syehri Ally Reza (Indonesia)
- Maria Paz Colan Araujo (Peru)
By fostering cross-border collaboration and empowering student leadership, UI GreenMetric and NPUST continue to nurture a global network dedicated to building greener, more resilient university campuses worldwide.
Written by Muhammmad Dito Rizki Suprapto - Media Relations Intern of UI GreenMetric
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