| Overall Rating | Bronze |
|---|---|
| Overall Score | 41.18 |
| Liaison | Mira Dzhakshylykova |
| Submission Date | July 19, 2024 |
American University of Central Asia
EN-3: Student Life
| Status | Score | Responsible Party |
|---|---|---|
|
2.00 / 2.00 |
Mira
Dzhakshylykova Sustainability Coordinator Center for Civic Engagement |
"---"
indicates that no data was submitted for this field
Student groups
Yes
Name and a brief description of the active student groups focused on sustainability:
The Green Club at the American University of Central Asia (AUCA) is a dynamic and passionate community of students and faculty dedicated to promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility. This vibrant club serves as a hub for eco-conscious individuals who share a common vision: to create a greener, more sustainable campus and community.
Through a range of engaging activities, educational events, and hands-on projects, the Green Club raises awareness about environmental issues, fosters sustainable practices, and actively contributes to AUCA's commitment to eco-friendly initiatives. From tree-planting campaigns to recycling drives, the Green Club embodies AUCA's dedication to making a positive impact on the environment.
By providing a platform for collaboration and action, the Green Club empowers its members to become environmental advocates, change-makers, and leaders. Together, they work towards a more sustainable future, not only within the university but also in the broader Central Asian region. Join the Green Club at AUCA and be a part of the movement towards a greener, more sustainable world.
https://auca.kg/en/p6000893444/
Through a range of engaging activities, educational events, and hands-on projects, the Green Club raises awareness about environmental issues, fosters sustainable practices, and actively contributes to AUCA's commitment to eco-friendly initiatives. From tree-planting campaigns to recycling drives, the Green Club embodies AUCA's dedication to making a positive impact on the environment.
By providing a platform for collaboration and action, the Green Club empowers its members to become environmental advocates, change-makers, and leaders. Together, they work towards a more sustainable future, not only within the university but also in the broader Central Asian region. Join the Green Club at AUCA and be a part of the movement towards a greener, more sustainable world.
https://auca.kg/en/p6000893444/
Gardens and farms
Yes
A brief description of the gardens, farms, community supported agriculture (CSA) or fishery programs, and/or urban agriculture projects:
The “Eco Park” is a joint project between the American University of Central Asia,the Town Hall of Bishkek and the French-Kyrgyz Ecotourism Association (Association Franco-Kirghize d’Ecotourisme AFKE) aimed at the rehabilitation of 41,1 hectares of the Elm Grove of Bishkek. The Elm Grove of Bishkek is unique and is the biggest and oldest urban forest in Central Asia.In 2015 this initiative received a certification COP21 from the French Ministry of the Environment for its interest in the fight against climate change and the civic engagement induced by this project. To date, about 10,000 trees have been protected. Numerous activities and courses for the students in our program are organized there. Several students also conduct research in connection with the EcoPark for their
undergraduate thesis.
https://www.auca.kg/en/emsd_ecopark/
undergraduate thesis.
https://www.auca.kg/en/emsd_ecopark/
Student-run enterprises
Yes
A brief description of the student-run enterprises:
Enactus Auca Mission: A team of the country's future leaders creates opportunities for beneficiaries. WE work to improve people's lives by creating socially sustainable projects and teaching people entrepreneurial skills and promotion of sustainable environment.
Sustainable investment and finance
No
A brief description of the sustainable investment funds, green revolving funds or sustainable microfinance initiatives:
---
Events
Yes
A brief description of the conferences, speaker series, symposia, or similar events focused on sustainability:
1) EcoMovieDay: Tackling Environmental Issues Through Entertainment:
On November 4, EcoMovieDay, a part of the "Green AUCA" program within the Center for Civic Engagement, combined serious discussions on waste management, eco-habits, and awareness with entertaining activities. The event featured games, a quiz, an eco-quest, a photo exhibition, and videos created by AUCA students. Over 200 participants, including schoolchildren and students from various institutions, engaged in the event, emphasising the importance of eco-awareness.
2) EcoTEDx-3: An International Perspective on Environmental Challenges:
The 3rd EcoTEDx, organised within the Center for Civic Engagement "Green AUCA" program on November 11, reached international proportions with speakers from Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Morocco. Professor Ali N. Akhtar from Morocco shared insights into his country's successful abandonment of plastic bags in 2016, shedding light on the challenges faced and the positive impact on the environment. The event, supported by WasteNet.kg, sparked lively discussions, especially among young attendees, highlighting the global importance of addressing climate change, waste management, and sustainable practices.
3) Regional Conference on Climate Change: Aligned with the Worldwide Climate and Justice Education Week and leading up to COP-28, the Regional Conference on Climate Change was held on November 9th and fostered discussions and actions related to climate change and justice. The event involved diverse perspectives, from youth to scientists and civil society, in the fight against climate change. It aspired to inspire a collective commitment to climate education, action, and justice. Dr Eban Goodstein has presented online about the importance of Worldwide Climate and Justice Education Week. Additionally, participants engaged in bookcrossing, bringing one book to exchange for another. Key objectives included promoting climate education, encouraging multidisciplinary collaboration, highlighting the International Day of Climate Action, and preparing for the Teach-In event by uniting stakeholders to share resources and insights.
4) Carbon Neutrality Research Conference: On October 20, a significant research conference on "Prospects and Opportunities for Achieving Carbon Neutrality of the Kyrgyz Republic until 2050" took place. Organized by UNDP in the Kyrgyz Republic, the Green Alliance of Kyrgyzstan, Green4, the Alliance of Universities for a Green Economy and Sustainable Development (AVZUR), and AUCA, the conference brought together 13 scientists and researchers from various institutions. A unique aspect of the event was the practical focus, with all speakers sharing applicable experiences and conducting research on pertinent environmental issues in Kyrgyzstan. The results and recommendations presented during the conference are not only theoretical but are already making a tangible impact on environmental practices in the country.
https://publicate.it/p/HjA4y4ajVT5i389363
On November 4, EcoMovieDay, a part of the "Green AUCA" program within the Center for Civic Engagement, combined serious discussions on waste management, eco-habits, and awareness with entertaining activities. The event featured games, a quiz, an eco-quest, a photo exhibition, and videos created by AUCA students. Over 200 participants, including schoolchildren and students from various institutions, engaged in the event, emphasising the importance of eco-awareness.
2) EcoTEDx-3: An International Perspective on Environmental Challenges:
The 3rd EcoTEDx, organised within the Center for Civic Engagement "Green AUCA" program on November 11, reached international proportions with speakers from Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Morocco. Professor Ali N. Akhtar from Morocco shared insights into his country's successful abandonment of plastic bags in 2016, shedding light on the challenges faced and the positive impact on the environment. The event, supported by WasteNet.kg, sparked lively discussions, especially among young attendees, highlighting the global importance of addressing climate change, waste management, and sustainable practices.
3) Regional Conference on Climate Change: Aligned with the Worldwide Climate and Justice Education Week and leading up to COP-28, the Regional Conference on Climate Change was held on November 9th and fostered discussions and actions related to climate change and justice. The event involved diverse perspectives, from youth to scientists and civil society, in the fight against climate change. It aspired to inspire a collective commitment to climate education, action, and justice. Dr Eban Goodstein has presented online about the importance of Worldwide Climate and Justice Education Week. Additionally, participants engaged in bookcrossing, bringing one book to exchange for another. Key objectives included promoting climate education, encouraging multidisciplinary collaboration, highlighting the International Day of Climate Action, and preparing for the Teach-In event by uniting stakeholders to share resources and insights.
4) Carbon Neutrality Research Conference: On October 20, a significant research conference on "Prospects and Opportunities for Achieving Carbon Neutrality of the Kyrgyz Republic until 2050" took place. Organized by UNDP in the Kyrgyz Republic, the Green Alliance of Kyrgyzstan, Green4, the Alliance of Universities for a Green Economy and Sustainable Development (AVZUR), and AUCA, the conference brought together 13 scientists and researchers from various institutions. A unique aspect of the event was the practical focus, with all speakers sharing applicable experiences and conducting research on pertinent environmental issues in Kyrgyzstan. The results and recommendations presented during the conference are not only theoretical but are already making a tangible impact on environmental practices in the country.
https://publicate.it/p/HjA4y4ajVT5i389363
Cultural arts
Yes
A brief description of the cultural arts events, installations, or performances focused on sustainability:
Trash Art Installation "Full Basket" by Steven Siegel:
Green October 2023 kicked off at AUCA with the unveiling the art installation "Full Basket" at the campus entrance, created by renowned artist Steven Siegel from the USA. The installation, dedicated to the urgent issue of textile waste in Kyrgyzstan, aimed to raise awareness about the environmental impact of sewing waste, often disposed of in landfills or burned, releasing harmful chemicals into the air.
https://publicate.it/p/HjA4y4ajVT5i389363
Green October 2023 kicked off at AUCA with the unveiling the art installation "Full Basket" at the campus entrance, created by renowned artist Steven Siegel from the USA. The installation, dedicated to the urgent issue of textile waste in Kyrgyzstan, aimed to raise awareness about the environmental impact of sewing waste, often disposed of in landfills or burned, releasing harmful chemicals into the air.
https://publicate.it/p/HjA4y4ajVT5i389363
Wilderness and outdoors programs
Yes
A brief description of the wilderness or outdoors programs that follow Leave No Trace principles:
Wildlife Conservation Class Expedition to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve: Based on the DDCR management plan, AUCA students were directly involved in the monitoring of 6 “major site value” species; Arabian Oryx, Sand Gazelle, Arabian Gazelle, Lappet Faced Vulture, Pharaoh Eagle Owl, and Macqueen’s Bustard. This course follows Leave No Trace principles such as: minimizing campfire impacts, leave what you find, respect wildlife and plan ahead and prepare.
Sustainability-focused themes
Yes
A brief description of the sustainability-focused themes chosen for themed semesters, years, or first-year experiences:
Green Nudges Challenge is informing, inspiring and mobilizing staff and students of the AUCA around climate action, sustainability, waste management, and responsible consumption. This powerful and diverse call to action features 6 months of environmentally–themed activities to touch lives, shift mindsets, and equip staff and students with knowledge, resources, and mentorship to lead change on campus and in community.
Sustainable life skills
Yes
A brief description of the programs through which students can learn sustainable life skills:
A special Sustainable Eco Trends and Practices Workshop is held by Sustainability Coordinator for the whole AUCA community, where participants learn about sustainable life skills and apply in daily routine.
Student employment opportunities
Yes
A brief description of the sustainability-focused student employment opportunities offered by the institution:
The Green Job Fairs are conducted annually, where different eco companies are invited and students have opportunity to get employed. Additionally, there are internship announcement sent out for students within different memorandums.
Graduation pledge
No
A brief description of the graduation pledge(s):
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Optional Fields
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Additional documentation to support the submission:
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Data source(s) and notes about the submission:
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