Erasmus+ CIRCULAR Drives Circular Economy Awareness at USM
Penang, 23 May 2025
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) continued to show strong leadership in sustainability by organising the CIRCULAR Awareness Day Program from 19 to 23 May 2025. The program is part of the Erasmus+ CIRCULAR project and focused on creating awareness about the circular economy and how we can reduce waste through smarter, more responsible practices.
The event began on 19 May with an online talk series through Webex, where local and international experts shared ideas and practical solutions for reducing waste, reusing materials, and building a more sustainable future. Students and staff who joined the session were actively involved in asking questions and discussing how these ideas can be applied in their own lives.
The main event was held on 22 May at the USM main campus and officiated by the Vice-Chancellor of USM. As part of the opening ceremony, a recycling bin was presented as a symbolic gesture of USM’s waste mitigation initiative. This highlighted the university’s commitment to sustainable practices, in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
From 21 to 23 May, USM joined the SUFIEX Carnival with a special CIRCULAR exhibition booth, where visitors were introduced to the concept of the circular economy. USM team members explained how simple actions like reusing materials and reducing waste can support a more sustainable future. The booth also featured student upcycling displays and puzzle games, which attracted attention from participants of all ages.
One of the hands-on highlights of the program was the CIRCULAR Workshop, where participants learned how to turn old and used clothes into reusable bags. This activity sparked creativity and offered a practical way to reduce textile waste while promoting a more sustainable lifestyle.
In total, 7,235 students responded to the event’s feedback survey, providing valuable insights into the impact of the program and helping the organisers strengthen future engagement activities.
Through this program, USM not only achieved its awareness goals under the Erasmus+ CIRCULAR project but also brought together the community in a meaningful effort to support a more circular and environmentally conscious future.