I. Introduction.
“Classical music is for everyone, and so is tree planting – anyone can plant a tree.” This is the message behind the name “Gieo” in the "Forest Harmony" project, a charity concert combined with an environmental protection initiative, which took place at the Ho Chi Minh City Conservatory of Music on April 21, 2024.
This is the second time this meaningful event has been held, and also the second time Gloton has been honored to participate and take charge of the event decoration.
With a profound mission: Bringing the timeless beauty of classical music into charitable projects that contribute to the restoration and conservation of forests threatened by encroachment.
Additionally, the initiative provides opportunities for ethnic minority children to access environmental books, textbooks, and children's comics.
"Forest Harmony" is truly a project that harmonizes music and heartfelt devotion.
(Reference article: Forest Harmony - Project Introduction.)
II. Project overview.
Gloton, with its mission: "Providing a diverse ecosystem of aesthetically pleasing, eco-friendly products and services with practical applications in event decoration," has fully utilized cardboard – a perfect blend of creativity and environmental protection – to embellish the "Forest Harmony" event, staying true to our mission.
Let’s revisit the entire process of executing this project using cardboard – a green material.
1. Project consultation & survey.
For any humanitarian or large-scale project, Gloton’s team first conducts consultations and surveys to determine the most suitable and cost-effective approach for our clients while gathering all expectations and needs from relevant stakeholders.
Gloton's team provided design and execution consultation for "Forest Harmony No.2 - Gieo."2. Design phase.
After defining the client’s requirements and objectives, Gloton’s design team creates a summary or detailed graphic illustration to ensure seamless execution and a clear visualization for the client.
Design of the main photo backdrop for the event.
Key elements of the event.3. Production logistics.
Gloton's team prepared materials for production, closely monitored resources and processes to ensure smooth and efficient execution while aligning with the humanitarian essence of the event.
Cardboard design allows Gloton to tackle all challenges, as it is an environmentally friendly material that is lightweight, customizable, and highly durable.
4. On-site installation.
The installation process was efficient due to the lightweight, flat-packed, and easily transportable materials. The setup was quick, with no disturbing machine noise, no unpleasant odors, and ensured complete safety.
5. Event execution & Impact.
The making of "Forest Harmony" and its impactful statistics:
- 382 attendees, with all tickets sold out.
- 20 honeycomb cardboard sheets (20mm thick), 12 honeycomb cardboard sheets (10mm thick) (size: 2m x 1.2m), covered in artwork were used.
- 32 hours of collaboration with 12 participating partners.
- 28 hours dedicated to design demo and revisions.
- 6 direct construction personnel.
- 12 hours to complete the entire setup.
- After the event, we recorded total electricity consumption of 700 kWh throughout the preparation and performance phases.
- Assuming the electricity was generated from thermal power – the most CO2-intensive energy source – each kWh emits up to 2.5 kg CO2, leading to an estimated 1,750 kg CO2 emissions from electricity consumption.
- Additionally, we estimated nearly 400 attendees, 70 artists, and nearly 100 event personnel participating.
- Assuming each person used a motorbike and traveled an average of 30 km within the city, with a fuel consumption rate of 3 liters per 100 km and each liter producing 2.3 kg CO2, the estimated CO2 emissions from transportation were 1,242 kg CO2.
- The total estimated CO2 emissions from electricity usage and transportation amounted to 2,992 kg CO2.
- With each young tree capable of absorbing 5-10 kg CO2 per year, and increasing to 22 kg per year in maturity, the number of trees required to offset this carbon footprint was 600 trees.
However, considering the relative nature of calculations, we decided to plant 1,000 trees to compensate for any overlooked activities and calculation gaps.
All trees will be planted in Bidoup Nui Ba National Park, the source of the Dong Nai River, which sustains life in Saigon and surrounding regions.
This initiative not only offsets CO2 emissions from the event but also helps protect Saigon's critical water resources.
6. Audience satisfaction.
The second edition of the "Forest Harmony" charity concert, combined with environmental protection efforts, concluded successfully, leaving a deep emotional impact on the audience.
Whether attendees joined for their love of music or nature, their presence contributed to a sustainable community.
III. Conclusion.
Driven by the desire to "sow" positivity, kindness, and values that resonate within the community, Gloton hopes to contribute its modest efforts to environmental preservation.
"Forest Harmony" is a meaningful and necessary project in today’s context. By encouraging people to plant trees and protect forests, the project not only aids environmental conservation but also fosters a green and sustainable community.
"Seeing how much waste events create, Gloton started exploring the use of cardboard for decorations in 2022. Our goal is to cut carbon emissions by using recycled, eco-friendly materials.Every project tells a story of our creativity, our dedication to protecting the planet, and our drive to keep innovating."
