Leaf Your Grade Behind – Plant Adoption Party: A Breath of Fresh Air Before Exams
A Moment to Pause and Rejuvenate
As the semester nears its end and the stress of exams and deadlines builds, HKUST Sustainability/Net-Zero Office hosted a refreshing event to help students and staff reconnect with nature and relieve stress. On April 16, 2025, the “Leaf Your Grade Behind – Plant Adoption Party” took place at the HKUST Atrium, inviting the campus community to take a pause, play some games, and get green gifts.
Recognizing the mental and physical toll that academic pressures can bring, this event was designed to encourage participants to engage with nature as a means of stress relief and well-being. Scientific studies show that spending just five minutes in nature can significantly reduce stress and improve mood. This is a simple yet powerful reminder for all of us to take breaks and care for our mental health.
Engaging Activities with Meaning
Participants enjoyed two main activities that combined fun with mindfulness. The Ping Pong Park Trivia challenged attendees’ knowledge of the HKUST campus green spaces, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment around them. Meanwhile, the Stress Relief Pledge invited everyone to commit to spending more time outdoors, symbolically breaking a board to leave their stress behind. Each activity was thoughtfully designed to promote awareness of the benefits of nature and encourage sustainable habits.
A Green Takeaway
As a reward, participants adopted plants grown by local permaculture farms, choosing from varieties such as mint, mountain marigold, rosemary, beefsteak, Chinese money plant, and golden pothos. These plants were presented in eco-friendly newspaper pots, emphasizing sustainability and the beauty of nurturing life. Taking a plant home not only enhances personal spaces but also serves as a growing reminder to stay connected with nature.
Impact on the HKUST Community
The event successfully fostered a sense of community and well-being on campus, offering a much-needed break from academic stress. By promoting the mental health benefits of nature and encouraging sustainable practices, “Leaf Your Grade Behind” strengthened HKUST’s commitment to creating a healthier, greener campus environment. It inspired participants to integrate moments of nature into their daily lives, contributing to a culture of mindfulness and environmental stewardship.
As our office continues to nurture our rich biodiversity and sustainability initiatives, events like this remind us all that sometimes, the best way to move forward is to pause, breathe, and leaf our stress behind.
