On Friday, April 24, 2026, the heart of Koror came alive as the community gathered for the annual Earth Day Green Fair hosted by the Palau Visitors Authority. Guided by the theme “Our Power, Our Planet: Ng Ultuil Ra Klisiched, Leng Beluad El Rokir,” the event transformed the fairgrounds into a vibrant space for education, cultural exchange, and environmental action.
The fair welcomed a strong turnout of elementary and high school students, local residents, and visitors. The participation of Palau’s youth highlighted a growing commitment to protecting the nation’s natural environment and taking ownership of its future.
A key highlight of the event was the Plant Contest, which celebrated biodiversity and cultural heritage through two categories. The Medicinal category (Btaches) recognized traditional healing plants and their importance in Palauan culture, while the Ornamental category (Kilkuld) showcased the beauty and diversity of local flora. In the Ornamental category, Filly Carabit placed first, followed by Ayles Sukrad in second and Julie Jiro in third. In the Medicinal category, Filly Carabit also secured first place, with Ayles Sukrad in second and Medalina Skang in third.
The event also featured interactive and educational activities designed to engage participants of all ages. Students took part in environmental Q&A sessions, while the Embassy of Japan in Palau presented a live Ikebana demonstration, blending traditional Japanese artistry with the natural world. Raffle drawings were held throughout the day, adding to the lively atmosphere.
To support attendees throughout the event, the Palau Red Cross Society provided water stations, ensuring everyone stayed hydrated in the island heat.
Through the support of local partners and government agencies, attendees left the fair equipped with practical tools and resources to begin or strengthen their own sustainability efforts. Western Caroline Trading Company, West Ace Hardware, Mason's Hardware Do-It Best, and Palau True Value Hardware contributed gardening tools to support home-based growing initiatives. The Technical Mission of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in Palau further supported local food security with donations of fresh fruit baskets and eggs. The Bureau of Agriculture distributed plant seedlings, while the KSG Solid Waste Management Office provided compost soil to encourage organic gardening practices.
The Earth Day Committee was present throughout the event, offering guidance and support. Their involvement reinforced the message behind this year’s theme, emphasizing that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility.
The 2026 Earth Day Green Fair not only celebrated Palau’s natural beauty and cultural traditions but also empowered the community with the knowledge and resources needed to build a more sustainable future.