Amid growing global environmental challenges, ecological conservation and sustainable development have become central concerns for the international community. In active response to Tongji University’s “AI-Driven Discipline Innovation and Development Action Plan,” and to broaden students’ international perspectives and interdisciplinary competencies, the university successfully organized a summer camp in Macao from October 21 to 24, 2025, focused on “AI and Environmental Sustainability.”

Centered around the theme of “AI and Environmental Sustainability,” the camp highlighted the application of artificial intelligence technologies in areas such as environmental protection, ecological restoration, and green technology innovation. A delegation of seven outstanding students from the College of Environmental Science and Engineering, the School of Economics and Management, and the College of Architecture and Urban Planning participated in a four-day immersive learning and exchange program in Macao, led by faculty members. Through a combination of expert lectures, academic seminars, and field investigations, the students delved into cutting-edge applications of AI in water resource management, climate modeling, and urban sustainable development, further strengthening their systemic understanding and interdisciplinary innovation capabilities in the field of environmental sustainability.

During their stay in Macao, the delegation took part in an AI Literacy Bootcamp organized by the United Nations University Institute in Macau (UNU Macau), engaging with young representatives from universities around the world to explore new pathways for leveraging AI to advance sustainable development. This experience significantly enhanced their cross-cultural communication and international collaboration skills. As active members of the delegation, they participated in multiple academic exchanges and thematic events, demonstrating the global vision and sense of responsibility characteristic of university students in the new era.

Beyond academic learning, the delegation also conducted several field visits to gain firsthand insight into urban environmental governance in Macao. The group visited the Macao Cross-Border Industrial Zone Wastewater Treatment Plant, where they learned about the application of intelligent monitoring systems in urban wastewater purification, energy efficiency improvement, and resource recycling. They also toured the Macao Maritime Museum to study the city’s innovative approaches to marine ecological conservation, cultural heritage preservation, and low-carbon urban development. Through on-site observation and dialogue, the students gained a practical understanding of the pivotal role that technological innovation plays in driving sustainable development.

Beyond academic learning, the delegation also conducted several field visits to gain firsthand insight into urban environmental governance in Macao. The group visited the Macao Cross-Border Industrial Zone Wastewater Treatment Plant, where they learned about the application of intelligent monitoring systems in urban wastewater purification, energy efficiency improvement, and resource recycling. They also toured the Macao Maritime Museum to study the city’s innovative approaches to marine ecological conservation, cultural heritage preservation, and low-carbon urban development. Through on-site observation and dialogue, the students gained a practical understanding of the pivotal role that technological innovation plays in driving sustainable development.