Earlier this year,  we applied for Global environment solutions challenge and we received one of the most exciting emails of our lives—an official invitation to the 2025 Global Environment Solutions Challenge (GESC), hosted by Tongji University in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The invitation came as a recognition of our innovative project on developing bioplastic using invasive plant species, which aimed to tackle two urgent environmental challenges—plastic pollution and the ecological threat posed by invasive species. Our theme was centered around Climate Action, aligned with sustainable solutions to combat climate change and plastic waste.
This prestigious event brought together 621 students from 166 teams across 71 countries and regions, all passionate about creating a more sustainable future. The challenge was not just a competition—it was a platform for young minds to propose real-world environmental solutions under themes like Zero-Waste Cities, Climate Action, Automotive Plastic Recycling.
After months of preparation, we arrived in Shanghai, China on the cusp of summer. The energy of the city instantly drew us in—modern yet deeply rooted in tradition, bustling yet balanced. Tongji University welcomed us warmly, and the organizing institutions—including UNEP-Tongji Institute of Environment for Sustainable Development (IESD) and the Yangtze River Delta Institute for Sustainable Development—ensured the event was intellectually enriching and culturally immersive.
The Competition: An Eye-Opening Experience
During the GESC from 5th to 7th June, we had the opportunity to present our project in front of expert panels and fellow participants from all over the world. It was inspiring to witness a global convergence of ideas and creativity focused on one shared goal: protecting our planet. The feedback and questions we received were thought-provoking, and the entire experience refined our understanding of sustainable practices, environmental science, and collaborative innovation.
What made our experience even more special was the deep cultural immersion we experienced in Shanghai. From strolling along The Bund, marveling at the mix of European colonial architecture and futuristic skyscrapers, to exploring serene temples tucked between urban streets, the city left an unforgettable impression on us. We tasted authentic Chinese cuisine, interacted with local students and volunteers, and learned a great deal about Chinese history, sustainability practices, and traditional values.
The hospitality and warmth of everyone at Tongji made us feel at home, and the friendships we made with other international participants are ones we’ll carry with us forever.
The Second Invitation: ISCES & Global Environment Conference
The highlight of our journey was being invited to attend a second event—the 2025 International Student Conference on Environment and Sustainability (ISCES) and the Global Conference on Environment and Sustainable Development, held on 7th June as part of the World Environment Day celebrations.
Organized by a powerful consortium including:
* UNEP
* Tongji University
* The Executive Committee of the Demonstration Zone of Green and Integrated Ecological Development of the Yangtze River Delta
This conference was a larger platform where researchers, practitioners, and youth gathered to share impactful work on environmental and sustainability issues. Being part of this event was a humbling experience—we were no longer just students presenting an idea, but part of a global movement advocating for sustainable transformation.
We attended keynote speeches, engaged in panel discussions, and networked with passionate individuals from various fields. The event emphasized the importance of youth participation, systems thinking, and global collaboration to achieve the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
A Journey That Changed Us
Looking back, our time in China was much more than a competition trip—it was a life-changing experience that gave us:
* A deeper understanding of environmental problems and their global implications
* Confidence in our ability to innovate and contribute to solutions
* Lifelong friendships with like-minded changemakers
* An appreciation for the culture, architecture, and sustainability leadership of Shanghai
As we returned home, we brought back not just a certificate or a memory, but a sense of responsibility—to keep working towards a greener, more sustainable world.
We will always remember Shanghai not just as the place where we presented our idea, but where we grew—intellectually, emotionally, and globally.

Earlier this year,  we applied for Global environment solutions challenge and we received one of the most exciting emails of our lives—an official invitation to the 2025 Global Environment Solutions Challenge (GESC), hosted by Tongji University in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The invitation came as a recognition of our innovative project on developing bioplastic using invasive plant species, which aimed to tackle two urgent environmental challenges—plastic pollution and the ecological threat posed by invasive species. Our theme was centered around Climate Action, aligned with sustainable solutions to combat climate change and plastic waste.
This prestigious event brought together 621 students from 166 teams across 71 countries and regions, all passionate about creating a more sustainable future. The challenge was not just a competition—it was a platform for young minds to propose real-world environmental solutions under themes like Zero-Waste Cities, Climate Action, Automotive Plastic Recycling.
After months of preparation, we arrived in Shanghai, China on the cusp of summer. The energy of the city instantly drew us in—modern yet deeply rooted in tradition, bustling yet balanced. Tongji University welcomed us warmly, and the organizing institutions—including UNEP-Tongji Institute of Environment for Sustainable Development (IESD) and the Yangtze River Delta Institute for Sustainable Development—ensured the event was intellectually enriching and culturally immersive.
The Competition: An Eye-Opening Experience
During the GESC from 5th to 7th June, we had the opportunity to present our project in front of expert panels and fellow participants from all over the world. It was inspiring to witness a global convergence of ideas and creativity focused on one shared goal: protecting our planet. The feedback and questions we received were thought-provoking, and the entire experience refined our understanding of sustainable practices, environmental science, and collaborative innovation.
What made our experience even more special was the deep cultural immersion we experienced in Shanghai. From strolling along The Bund, marveling at the mix of European colonial architecture and futuristic skyscrapers, to exploring serene temples tucked between urban streets, the city left an unforgettable impression on us. We tasted authentic Chinese cuisine, interacted with local students and volunteers, and learned a great deal about Chinese history, sustainability practices, and traditional values.
The hospitality and warmth of everyone at Tongji made us feel at home, and the friendships we made with other international participants are ones we’ll carry with us forever.
The Second Invitation: ISCES & Global Environment Conference
The highlight of our journey was being invited to attend a second event—the 2025 International Student Conference on Environment and Sustainability (ISCES) and the Global Conference on Environment and Sustainable Development, held on 7th June as part of the World Environment Day celebrations.
Organized by a powerful consortium including:
* UNEP
* Tongji University
* The Executive Committee of the Demonstration Zone of Green and Integrated Ecological Development of the Yangtze River Delta
This conference was a larger platform where researchers, practitioners, and youth gathered to share impactful work on environmental and sustainability issues. Being part of this event was a humbling experience—we were no longer just students presenting an idea, but part of a global movement advocating for sustainable transformation.
We attended keynote speeches, engaged in panel discussions, and networked with passionate individuals from various fields. The event emphasized the importance of youth participation, systems thinking, and global collaboration to achieve the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
A Journey That Changed Us
Looking back, our time in China was much more than a competition trip—it was a life-changing experience that gave us:
* A deeper understanding of environmental problems and their global implications
* Confidence in our ability to innovate and contribute to solutions
* Lifelong friendships with like-minded changemakers
* An appreciation for the culture, architecture, and sustainability leadership of Shanghai
As we returned home, we brought back not just a certificate or a memory, but a sense of responsibility—to keep working towards a greener, more sustainable world.
We will always remember Shanghai not just as the place where we presented our idea, but where we grew—intellectually, emotionally, and globally.