To promote the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Ming Chi University of Technology (MCUT) organized an event on November 23 in Hukou, Hsinchu, integrating environmental education with cultural exploration. The event emphasized net-zero green living and traditional cultural preservation through collaboration with DAWOKO and Hukou Old Street. Focusing on the themes of circular economy and cultural heritage, it advocated for the dual values of reusing discarded wood resources and preserving old street culture, injecting new vitality into local regeneration and innovation.

DAWOKO is dedicated to recycling roadside branch trimmings and utilizing carbon cycling, successfully diverting branches from incineration and reducing carbon emissions. By employing carbonization technology, these trimmings are transformed into charcoal, wood vinegar, and related products, creating a sustainable circular economy chain. These products not only enhance the artistic and functional value of charcoal but also reduce the risk of re-burning, achieving effective carbon sequestration and emission reduction. The event included DAWOKO's educational seminar on the carbon cycle economy and hands-on workshops where participants created eco-charcoal bottles and carbon dehumidifiers. These activities deepened participants' understanding of circular economy concepts through practical experience. The lunch featured sustainable meal boxes made from stainless steel containers and local farm ingredients, embodying the zero-waste dining concept while supporting local agriculture.

Hukou Old Street, a cultural landmark from the early 20th century, preserves traditional architectural techniques and historical memory through its cultural hub, Sanyuan Temple. During the event, participants explored the historical significance and century-old craftsmanship of Hukou Old Street through guided tours, gaining a deeper appreciation for the urgency and importance of cultural preservation.

This sustainability promotion initiative aligns with SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). It encouraged participants to reflect on their lifestyles and adopt eco-friendly practices, injecting momentum into local green development and cultural preservation. Looking ahead, MCUT plans to continue leveraging its university social responsibility (USR) initiatives to embed circular economy and cultural sustainability principles into local communities, driving the realization of regional sustainable development.