ESG News

For over 10 consecutive years, Novatek Foundation has collaborated with Yunlin Storyhouse to organize a Summer Story Camp, providing disadvantaged students with diverse learning opportunities during summer vacation. This year’s theme was “Future Home Fantasy Story Camp”. On the first day, students listened to captivating stories related to housing and architecture. Storytellers incorporated concepts of sustainability and environmental protection, guiding the students to imagine scenarios for their future homes. In the afternoon, Professor Liu from National Yunlin University of Science and Technology’s Department of Architecture and Interior Design introduced the concept of “green buildings” and their significance for environmental protection. He also shared examples of green buildings from around the world. Students showed great interest in the intricately designed green buildings and eagerly asked Professor Liu questions. Undoubtedly, the students benefited greatly from this session! Next, Professor Liu led students on a tour of the Yunlin Palm Puppets Museum and the old Government Complex Building, where they could observe the ingenious designs of old Japanese-style buildings. In light of today’s increasingly severe environmental changes, it is hoped that students will cultivate civic literacy and a sense of responsibility. Starting from small actions like reducing plastic usage and using eco-friendly tableware, they can actively practice environmental sustainability.

On the second day, students visited the Gaia Base Sanheyuan (three-section compound). Waste and carbon reduction construction approaches, as well as locally sourced materials, were adopted in the restoration of the Wang Family Ancestral Home in Lenei, Yunlin, creating a cultural space with distinct local characteristics. The students had the opportunity to witness the splendor of the Sanheyuan’s traditional houses and the bamboo buildings constructed without a single iron nail. The Sanheyuan’s leisure space also maintained ecological balance, with various insects coexisting harmoniously, allowing everyone to truly experience the natural pulse of the land. The next stop was a visit to the “Clean and Green Sustainable Future House” at National Yunlin University of Science and Technology; this house was built entirely by Professor Wan and his research team. The entire house was powered by environmentally friendly renewable energy to drive its facilities, making it a sustainable building that integrated technology as well as energy-saving and carbon reduction concepts. One of the highlights was the “Solar Hydrogen Fuel Cell Car” developed by the research team, which operated by generating electricity through solar panels and using electrolysis to convert water into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen gas was then used as fuel to power the car, which fascinated the students. Recognizing the importance of R&D on renewable and environmentally friendly energy sources amid environmental changes, the event urged the students to uphold the idea of “Love for the Earth” in the future and implement household electricity and energy conservation practices.

On the final day of the camp, Mr. Lee led the students to explore the marvelous “homes” found in nature, such as cup and platform shaped bird nests, as well as the hexagonal honeycomb chambers built by bees. Students learned about the architectural mastery of creatures in the biological world and how they construct their own dwellings. Next, Mr. Lee demonstrated construction methods using materials found on-site, such as branches, bamboo sticks, and flowers, and taught students how to weave, tie knots, and build structures to create their ideal little houses. The students showcased incredible imagination and creativity, and within just two hours they had constructed tents, animal nests, and other imaginative structures. To top it off, they adorned their creations with flowers, truly impressing everyone with their skills.

At the end of the event, students drew their ideal homes based on what they had observed and experienced during the past three days. They shared their imaginations, with some children expressing the desire for their homes to use solar panels for electricity generation, while others drew wind turbines and rainwater collectors. Some even depicted rooftop gardens to help reduce indoor temperatures. Students applied their knowledge of green architecture acquired during the three-day camp to their visions of ideal homes. Next, they explored various types of houses through their friends’ drawings, discussing what architectural features and infrastructure might be needed in a community. Finally, they worked together to create a thriving and vibrant neighborhood.