At the beginning of the activity, instructors from Wetlands Taiwan introduced participants to the wetland landscape and ecosystem, sharing insights gained through years of local conservation efforts. They emphasized that environmental protection is not only about safeguarding nature, but also about engaging communities and fostering collaboration among people to protect wetlands together. Partnering with Wetlands Taiwan, Ennostar stepped into the Qingkunshen Salt Pan Wetland for a half-day volunteer experience that enabled participants not only to “see” the wetland, but also to truly immerse themselves in its vibrant ecosystem.
Wetland Café Opens: Learning Ecology Through Play
Soon after, the“Wetland Café” session began. Through interactive games and thought-provoking questions, instructors guided participants in understanding the importance of wetlands and identifying wetland species. By connecting ecological concepts to everyday life, they made environmental education both engaging and accessible.
Transforming Oyster Shells into New Marine Homes
Next, participants visited an oyster shell storage area. The pale gray shells, worn smooth by time, felt rough yet solid in hand. Together, volunteers filled biodegradable mesh bags with discarded oyster shells, learning how to stack and secure them while assessing water levels. These recycled materials would later be used to create habitats that support aquatic biodiversity and ecological restoration.
Walking Along the Salt Pans: Birdwatching and Beach Cleanup
Meanwhile, another group set off along the edge of the salt pans. After receiving instructions on how to use binoculars, participants observed birds while exploring the wetland. Along the way, adults and children worked together to collect litter, while small hermit crabs scurried across the ground nearby, encouraging everyone to slow down and appreciate the beauty of the habitat.
Protecting the environment while discovering the wetland ecosystem.
The Highlight of the Day: Building a Heart-Shaped Stone Weir
The most memorable moment came when participants placed the completed artificial stone Weir structures into the abandoned salt pan. Standing along the shoreline, volunteers carefully considered water levels, currents, and placement locations. Guided by Wetlands Taiwan and working together as a team, they arranged the reef structures into a heart-shaped stone Weir, symbolizing their shared commitment to environmental conservation.
Bringing Generations Together Through Environmental Action
Several highlights made this activity particularly meaningful. For the first time, colleagues from Hsinchu Science Park joined the volunteer program, strengthening cross-regional connections within the Group. Participants ranged in age from 2 to 82 years old, demonstrating how environmental stewardship can bring generations together. The growing number of volunteers also reflects Ennostar’s continued commitment to expanding its sustainability efforts across regions and age groups, transforming volunteer service into a truly inclusive and long-term sustainability action.
