Giving Flowers a Second Life: A Blooming Sustainability Effort

Flower bouquet re-created

On 12 May, the Library hosted a vibrant exhibition opening that drew in art lovers. In a heartwarming show of support, friends of Dr Sze Chi Ching sent in 90 beautiful flower baskets, creating a stunning display outside the Library. While the flowers added charm to the event, the Library team saw an opportunity to extend their beauty and their purpose.

The flower baskets display outside the Library - view from the Library The flower baskets display outside the Library - view from the Atrium

Rather than letting the blooms go to waste, the Library reached out to the Sustainability/Net-Zero Office the next day with an idea: invite the campus community to take home the flowers and recycle the wooden frames. The Sustainability/Net-Zero Office enthusiastically supported the initiative and helped spread the word within 3 hours. The Campus Management Office also played a key role by sending the housekeeping team and cleaners to help tidy up the space, ensuring everything was neat and welcoming for the community.

People choosing flowers People choosing flowers Cleaning lady cleaned up the environment after flower picking Cleaning lady mopped the floor after flower picking

The response was overwhelming. Students, staff, and faculty came together to give the flowers a second life, brightening homes and offices across campus. It was a joyful moment of sharing, sustainability, and community spirit.

This simple yet impactful gesture not only reduced waste but also reminded everyone that small actions can make a big difference. The Library, Sustainability/Net-Zero Office, and Campus Management Office’s collaboration turned a celebration into a meaningful environmental initiative—proof that beauty and responsibility can go hand in hand.

Baskets without flowers Remains of the bouquets

 

P.S. I was amazed by the creativity of our campus community. Many used the flowers and ribbons from the baskets to craft lovely, personalized bouquets!
And thanks 碗的碗 for the kind words on XiaoHongShu!

Flowers bouquet made by the flowers and ribbons from the baskets

Joyce Yau
Senior Manager (Administration & Communications)
lbjoyce@ust.hk

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