Asia-Pacific Sustainability Action Awards-Sustainability Action Awards SDG03:Silver
National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University
Creating a Sustainable Life
The “Creating a Sustainable Life” project promotes sustainable development through circular economy practices, environmental health innovation, and international collaboration. Contributing to SDGs 3, 6, 11, 12, 13, and 17, it transforms agricultural rice straw into activated carbon filters that remove VOCs and PM2.5, reducing air pollution and emissions. It also develops antimicrobial filters from shellfish waste and advanced technologies to remove ozone and emerging contaminants from the environment. Through global partnerships, the project applies satellite remote sensing, big data, and epidemiological research to assess environmental health risks. Studies have linked wildfire-related PM2.5 exposure to increased health risks, while interventions in Ethiopia and Eswatini promote cleaner household energy and improved ventilation. By converting waste into valuable resources, improving environmental quality, and developing scalable solutions, the project enhances public health, community well-being, and sustainable development resilience.