ASEZ WAO (Young Adult Worker Volunteer Group of the World Mission Society Church of God) has been at the forefront of environmental improvement projects for a sustainable global future. Both individually and with local members, ASEZ WAO members consistently carry out diverse activities—such as energy-saving efforts and environmental campaigns—to reduce carbon emissions in their workplaces and daily lives. Every year, they hold large-scale volunteer services twice, in the first and second halves of the year, conducting timely projects across various countries.

From June 16 to July 7, 2024, about 6,200 ASEZ WAO members in 16 countries—including South Korea, the United States, the United Kingdom, India, Malaysia, Mongolia, and Cambodia—participated in environmental protection projects.

Green Earth, Mother’s Forest: From Protecting to Restoring Terrestrial Ecosystems

To reduce waste that harms soil and water quality and destroys habitats of various species, members carried out the “Green Earth” project. They conducted cleanup activities in areas such as Sinjang-dong, Pyeongtaek City (South Korea); Mount Huaytapallana in Huancayo, Peru; and Ogi-machi Park in Osaka, Japan. During this period, the total amount of waste collected reached approximately 19 tons.

In addition, through the “Mother’s Forest” project, members worked to restore terrestrial ecosystems by planting trees. Members from the 2nd Arequipa, Peru, planted 100 trees in the Cayma area in collaboration with local authorities. In Argentina, members cleaned the roadside near Vicente López Coastal Walk and planted 150 trees. Municipality officials from Vicente López visited the site to encourage the volunteers.

Shin Seon-hyo, a member from Gyeongju, South Korea, said, “It’s fulfilling to spend my day off helping save the Earth with fellow members. I hope more people will realize the importance of protecting the environment and join in our efforts.”

Taebaek City Councilor Shim Chang-bo also remarked, “True volunteering comes from the heart, not because someone tells you to do it. Despite the hot weather, ASEZ WAO gathered to serve sincerely. They are a true volunteer group.”

Blue Ocean, No More GPGP: A Step Toward a Healthy Marine Ecosystem

The “Blue Ocean” project, aimed at cleaning rivers and seas to protect marine ecosystems, was also a major focus. At Bi-eung Port in Gunsan City, South Korea, members from nearby regions—including Iksan, Wanju, Jeongeup, and Gochang—joined forces to collect about 400 kilograms of waste. Members from the Busan Southwest Church Region also set up exhibition panels introducing the project to raise public environmental awareness. In Mexico, members from Puebla and Córdoba cleaned 1.7 tons of waste—filling 50 sacks—from San Antonio River Linear Park in Córdoba, relieving local residents who had suffered from bad odors. Officials from the Honorable City Council of Córdoba who participated in the event expressed their gratitude.

Many members also joined the “No More GPGP” project, which involves picking up plastic waste along coastlines. “GPGP” refers to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, a massive accumulation of plastic debris formed by ocean currents. Collecting plastic waste along coasts helps prevent its expansion. Through the first-half regular volunteer service, ASEZ WAO members removed over 2.8 tons of plastic waste from rivers and shores.

Matt Winiata, Chairperson of the Manurewa Local Board in New Zealand who participated in the cleanup, said, “I hope you continue the incredible work you’ve done today. Be encouraged by knowing you are doing what’s right for humanity and future generations.” Juan Linares, Mayor of Cayma District in Peru, also praised the volunteers, saying, “ASEZ WAO’s activities strengthen community awareness and responsibility for environmental protection.”