Among the 13 award-winning institutions, NCKU stood out for its innovative use of space, technology, and education. The university developed a comprehensive recycling system by converting unused underground corridors and raft foundations into rainwater reservoirs. By July 2025, the system had saved over 8,100 tons of water—equal to three standard NCKU swimming pools—for irrigation, toilet flushing, and lake replenishment.

NCKU has also implemented intelligent water monitoring and data analysis systems, helping managers track usage across campus, assess conservation results, and more effectively plan future policies and resource allocation. These efforts align with UN SDG Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation and Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. NCKU’s award-winning model shows how innovation and space can be transformed into real solutions, reinforcing its role in sustainable leadership.