By Staff Reporters

The launch ceremony of a series of events to meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) was held at the University of Science and Technology Beijing (USTB) on July 2.

Over the years, the USTB has been at the forefront of tackling crucial global sustainable development challenges, and consistently promoting original innovation and technological breakthroughs.

Its national center for materials corrosion and protection science has established field stations in Southeast Asia and other regions. Its achievements include developing corrosion-resistant steel which is used in major projects such as the China-Malaysia Friendship Bridge. A sewerless sanitation system developed by the university's School of Energy and Environmental Engineering is used in countries like Mongolia, South Africa, and Burkina Faso.

Prof. Shahbaz Khan (middle), director of UNESCO Multisectoral Regional Office for East Asia, visits USTB's national center for materials corrosion and protection science. (PHOTO: USTB)

Its Carbon Neutrality Research Institute collaborates with international mining companies to promote efficient resource utilization. Multiple research teams from the university have participated in international scientific projects like the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor, contributing significantly to global scientific endeavors.

Yang Renshu, president of USTB, said the university participates in the Belt and Road Initiative, nurtures talents, and advances high-level sci-tech innovation, underscoring dedication to understanding the theoretical implications and practical requirements of sustainability. 

Prof. Shahbaz Khan, director of UNESCO Multisectoral Regional Office for East Asia, spoke about the pivotal role of youth organizations in sustainable development efforts. He highlighted the youthful vigor within UNESCO as a driving force for sustainable development and hoped that closer engagement with youth groups through similar events would nurture the essential forces for global sustainability.

The event featured exhibitions on UN SDG projects and energy-saving and emission reduction projects as well as posters by students, showcasing the university's exploration and practice of the SDGs.