Greenship Project

Campus Cleanup at National Taichung University of Science and Technology, Taiwan

The Greenship Project is a key initiative of ASEZ, the World Mission Society Church of God University Student Volunteer Group. It connects individuals, communities, and nations to fulfill their environmental responsibilities as global citizens. Since environmental issues cannot be solved by a single individual, organization, or country alone, the project fosters global cooperation to promote environmental protection. A significant aspect of the Greenship Project is its focus on university students—future leaders who take the initiative in addressing social and environmental challenges. By acting as a driving force, students raise awareness and encourage participation across various sectors of society. As of November 2021, ASEZ has partnered with 168 government institutions, 226 international organizations and civic groups, and 56,168 individuals worldwide to further its mission.

ASEZ
Major Projects and Activities • SDGs Implementation Activities • Reduce Crime Activities • Climate Change Response Activities • Community Service Special Lecture • Jerome Glenn, Futurist • Duberlí Apolinar Rodríguez Tineo, Peruvian Supreme Court Justice • Sylvio Mário Puga Ferreira, Rector of the Federal University of Amazonas, Brazil, and Others • Bianca Dager Jervis, Ecuador’s Vice Minister of the Environment Global Cooperation • Forums/Conferences Global Forums for the Implementation of the SDGs UN Civil Society Conference Global ASEZ Summit • Supporting Signatures Campaign (Join) • Signing of MOUs / Advisory Committee Members Appointment Achievements ASEZ is an international volunteer organization consisting of university student members of the Church of God, active in 175 countries with more than 7,500 members worldwide.

Purpose

Korean members who went to Kathmandu, Nepal, conducted the Mother’s Street Project around the Kathmandu City Hall.

Extreme weather events are causing widespread destruction. Europe has suffered from heatwaves exceeding 40°C, while Asia and Oceania have faced severe flooding. In the United States and other regions, major wildfires, fueled by prolonged droughts, have devastated vast forests. The Republic of Korea (South Korea) has also experienced large-scale winter wildfires, droughts, and intense summer rainfall, all linked to climate change. These climate disasters, driven by global warming, are no longer distant concerns—they are a shared reality affecting people worldwide.

As part of the Mother’s Street Project, ASEZ members in Cape Town, South Africa, carry out a cleanup campaign around Bellville Station.

To combat climate change, governments worldwide have pledged to achieve carbon neutrality, implementing policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Carbon neutrality refers to minimizing emissions as much as possible and offsetting the remainder through absorption or removal, ultimately achieving net-zero emissions. While greenhouse gases help regulate Earth’s temperature by trapping heat from the Sun, human activities—especially since the Industrial Revolution—have significantly increased carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels, accelerating global warming and extreme weather patterns.
According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO)’s 2021 Global Climate Status Report (published in June 2022), Earth’s average temperature has risen by 1.1°C compared with pre-industrial levels. The Paris Agreement (adopted at the 2015 UN Climate Change Conference) aimed to limit global warming to below 2°C, ideally keeping it within 1.5°C of pre-industrial levels. However, only 0.4°C remains before this threshold is reached. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)’s Sixth Assessment Report (August 2021) predicts that global temperatures will rise by 1.5°C by 2040. If the increase reaches 2°C, the frequency and intensity of extreme heat events will more than double.

To prevent further temperature rises, reducing greenhouse gas emissions is crucial. Achieving meaningful carbon reductions requires collective action from governments, institutions, businesses, and civil society. ASEZ is actively working to raise awareness and empower individuals to address environmental challenges. Through the Greenship Project, ASEZ connects people, communities, and nations to combat the climate crisis and promote sustainable development.

Introduction to the Greenship Project

The Greenship Project derives its name from the fusion of “Green” (symbolizing environmental protection) and “Citizenship” (representing civic responsibility). Together, “Greenship” stands for environmental citizenship, emphasizing both the rights and responsibilities of global citizens in preserving the environment. Expanding on this concept, the Greenship Network fosters multilateral cooperation, linking individuals, societies, and nations in a collective effort to protect the planet.

Activity Status

Building Partnerships

ASEZ members in Korea and Argentina meet with the Acting Governor of the Córdoba State Council for a discussion on environmental initiatives.

ASEZ continues to expand its Greenship Network worldwide through Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs), meetings, and signature campaigns, engaging diverse sectors in environmental cooperation. As of November 2021, ASEZ has collaborated with:

• 168 government ministries and local governments
• 226 international organizations and civic groups
• 56,168 individuals, including members and citizens worldwide

Several global experts such as the futurist Jerome Glenn, university presidents, professors, and local government officials serve as advisors for ASEZ. Notable global figures who have expressed support for ASEZ include:

• Ban Ki-moon, former UN Secretary-General
• Robert Huber, Nobel Laureate in Chemistry
• Frank Rijsberman, Director-General of the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI)

In June 2021, six ASEZ university clubs in South Korea—Kwangwoon University, Korea University, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Seoul Women’s University, and Induk University—signed an agreement with KORAIL (Korea Railroad Corporation) Kwangwoon University Station to promote the “Safe and Clean Kwangwoon University Station” campaign. ASEZ members had already been conducting regular cleanups in the area and committed to continuing their efforts while encouraging the use of eco-friendly transportation, such as railways, which have lower energy consumption and CO₂ emissions than cars and airplanes.

Kwangwoon University Station Manager Kim Jin-guk expressed his gratitude, stating, “In these difficult times, I truly appreciate the university students taking action for their community. I hope Kwangwoon University Station will continue to be filled with youthful energy and students’ smiles through these activities.”

During school breaks, ASEZ members from South Korea travel abroad to collaborate with local members, governments, and organizations on environmental projects.

• In January 2019, ASEZ members in Argentina held meetings with government officials from Córdoba and La Rioja, securing support signatures for their initiatives. One member shared, “Seeing governors and ministers take an interest in ASEZ and share their perspectives made me realize that ASEZ is truly recognized as an organization needed worldwide. I hope our activities bring new life to all regions of Argentina.”
• In India, ASEZ members met with mayors, deputy mayors, and city council members from South Delhi, Raipur, Chandigarh, and Pune to exchange ideas and receive signatures in support of environmental collaboration. The Mayor of Chandigarh, impressed by ASEZ’s global cleanup efforts, awarded the group a mayoral citation in recognition of its contributions.

Forums and Seminars

The members listen to a lecture by Duberli Rodriguez Tineo, Peruvian Supreme Court Justice at the Climate Action Talk Concert.

Jerome Glenn, CEO of the Millennium Project, and ASEZ members, have a meeting at the New Jerusalem Pangyo Temple in May 2019.

ASEZ actively organizes forums, seminars, guest lectures, and talk concerts to raise awareness about environmental issues and encourage practical action through the Greenship Project.

• Climate Change Response Talk Concert (November 2018)

At the New Jerusalem Pangyo Temple in South Korea, ASEZ hosted a talk concert on “Climate Change Response and the Role of Universities,” attended by over 600 members from various countries, including the United States, South Africa, Philippines, and Peru. Keynote speaker Duberli Rodriguez Tineo, Peruvian Supreme Court Justice, stated, “The activities carried out by university students to save the Earth from A (beginning) to Z (end) are incredibly significant. I deeply respect these young students volunteering to protect the planet from different parts of the world.”

• Discussions with Jerome Glenn, CEO of the Millennium Project (May and June 2019)

ASEZ held two discussion sessions with Futurist Jerome Glenn, CEO of the Millennium Project.

First session: 20 ASEZ members discussed effective strategies for achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Second session: Under the theme “Exploring the Role of University Students for a Sustainable Future,” 530 members participated in presentations and panel discussions.

Glenn praised ASEZ’s commitment, stating, “People usually just think about these issues, but ASEZ actually takes action. I admire that. I hope you never stop your efforts.”

During the talk concert, members asked insightful questions about “utilizing collective intelligence” and “collaborating with cities to drive change,” leading to meaningful discussions and Glenn signing in support of ASEZ’s initiatives.

• Special Lecture with Ecuador’s Vice Minister of Environment (May 2022, South Korea)

At the New Jerusalem Pangyo Temple, Bianca Dager, Ecuador’s Vice Minister of Environment, delivered a special lecture to over 700 ASEZ members, emphasizing the need for proactive leadership in environmental efforts. She stated, “We need leaders who don’t just point out environmental problems but actually plan and act. I hope you achieve the transformation you aim for.”

Inspired by her speech, ASEZ members reaffirmed their commitment to environmental action. One participant shared, “I realized that taking personal action is crucial. I will make an effort to reduce carbon emissions by using public transportation and making eco-friendly choices in my daily life.”

Campaigns

ASEZ actively conducts diverse campaigns to raise public awareness about environmental issues and encourage eco-friendly practices in daily life. By November 2021, ASEZ had organized 386 environmental awareness campaigns, engaging 39,503 participants across 174 universities worldwide.

“The Cost” campaign: Addressing the Environmental Impact of Clothing Consumption

In 2021, ASEZ launched “The Cost” campaign, highlighting the environmental impact of clothing consumption. The initiative aligned with World Water Day (March 22) and World Environment Day (June 5), using informative videos and card news to promote sustainable fashion habits. Participants were encouraged to avoid purchasing new clothes, reuse and share clothing, and repair and upcycle garments

Impact of the Campaign:

• World Water Day Campaign (March 22–April 22, 2021):

8,341 clothes and 2,396 pairs of shoes were not purchased or were reused.

41 million liters of water were saved.

• World Environment Day Campaign (June 1–June 30, 2021):

2,793 clothes were reused or recycled.

Washing machine and dryer usage was reduced by 1,637 times.

The campaign cut CO₂ emissions by 68,958 kg, equivalent to planting 10,448 trees.

Environmental Cleanup Initiatives

Cleanup at Allard Drive, Manchester, NH, U.S.

ASEZ continues to broaden its environmental protection initiatives by collaborating with local governments and communities. Through the Green Campus Cleanup campaign, university students actively take ownership of their surroundings. From 2018 to November 2021, over 6,000 university students from 81 countries participated in campus cleanup activities.

Pretoria, South Africa:

• 60 ASEZ members conducted a cleanup near Tshwane University of Technology on Aubrey Matlakala Street.
• Volunteers split into two groups: one cleaned around the university fence, while the other removed illegally dumped waste along the roadside.
• 150 bags of trash were collected.

South Korea:

• ASEZ members held cleanup activities at multiple universities, including: Hanyang University, Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, Dankook University, Dongguk University, Myongji University, Kyonggi University, Kyungpook National University, Pusan National University, Sungshin Women’s University, Suwon University, and more.

Global Cleanup Statistics (as of November 2021):

• 928 community cleanups conducted worldwide.
• Over 40,050 participants engaged in environmental protection efforts.

Key Cleanup Activities:

Osongje Ecological Park, Jeonju (May 2022)

• 20 ASEZ members cleaned a 2 km-long area of this urban ecological park, a popular site surrounded by alder tree forests and a scenic reservoir walkway.
• As visitor numbers increased following eased COVID-19 restrictions, so did waste accumulation.
• Volunteers collected 12 bags (50L each) of trash, including disposable masks, plastic waste, aluminum cans, and cigarette butts.

Leaf Removal Initiative, New Jersey, U.S. (November 2021)

• ASEZ members participated in a resident assistance program supported by Elmwood Park Borough, City Council, and the Local Police Department.
• 35 volunteers removed large piles of leaves in front of 12 homes belonging to elderly and disabled residents.
• This cleanup helped prevent slip accidents, fire hazards, and drainage blockages caused by fallen leaves.

Continued Service in Elmwood Park, New Jersey:

• ASEZ members regularly volunteered in the community, including an Earth Day Cleanup (April 2021).
• Their consistent dedication to local service led to ASEZ receiving a plaque of appreciation from the Mayor and City Council in September 2021.

Stream Cleanup Near Old Naledi Market, Botswana (October 2021)

• ASEZ members in Botswana began cleaning up streams near Old Naledi Market, a bustling area where children often play barefoot and vendors sell vegetables.
• Waste accumulation in the river posed serious health and safety risks to the community.
• Oarabile Motlaleng, an honorary city councilor, joined the cleanup and expressed appreciation: “I will encourage the community to take more responsibility in maintaining a clean and healthy environment.”

Evaluation and Awards

ASEZ wins the 2020 Green World Gold Award for the “Greenship Network” project.

ASEZ’s Greenship Project has been internationally recognized for its impact, scalability, and effectiveness in promoting environmental awareness and sustainable action. Experts worldwide have acknowledged its potential, including Victor Cadavid, Director of the Forestry Department at Panama’s Ministry of Environment, who stated, “I believe the future depends on your cooperative activities and the ability to inspire even more participation.”

The Green Organization, a U.K.-based international non-profit environmental organization, honored ASEZ with The Green Apple Gold Award (2018) and The Green World Gold Award (2020). These prestigious European environmental awards—officially recognized by the European Commission and the U.K. Environment Agency—have been presented annually since 1994 to recognize outstanding environmental practices worldwide. As a result of its achievements, ASEZ was appointed as Green World Ambassadors for 2020–2021, further solidifying its role as a global leader in environmental action.

The President’s Volunteer Service Gold Award (ASEZ, Florida) from the U.S.
ASEZ has received The President’s Volunteer Service Award ten times from each state in the United States.

Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, ASEZ continued to spread its environmental message through music. ASEZ won the UNCCD Executive Secretary’s Award, the highest honor in the worldwide virtual choir competition co-hosted by the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and the Korea Forest Service.

ASEZ performed “Born from the Land,” the theme song of UNCCD, and “Let’s Save the Forests,” a song of their choice. The video, uploaded on ASEZ’s official YouTube channel, garnered over 250,000 views and about 25,000 likes. Following the highly favorable reception, ASEZ was selected as the final award recipient, marking another milestone in its global recognition.

In South Korea, ASEZ’s Greenship Project has received numerous certificates of recognition for its environmental efforts, including the Certificate of Recognitions from the Head of Dong District, Daejeon Metropolitan City, from the Chairperson of Gimhae City Council, and from the Head of Dong District, Daegu Metropolitan City. In the U.S., ASEZ received numerous awards, including the Certificate of Recognitions from a member of the New York State Assembly, and from the Councilmember for the 13th District, Los Angeles.

These recognitions reflect ASEZ’s growing influence in the environmental sector and its commitment to fostering a sustainable future through education, awareness, and hands-on initiatives.

See also

• ASEZ (The Church of God University Student Volunteer Group)

Related videos

• ASEZ Talk Concert with Jerome C. Glenn

• ASEZ Global Campus Cleanup Campaign

• Into the Forest