The event, themed “Resilience and Regeneration: Building a Sustainable Future,” brought together over 20 experts from diverse industries.
Throughout the week-long event, the Saigon South campus buzzed with students, faculty, and guests sharing their knowledge through interactive discussions, workshops, and exhibits designed to inspire the adoption of sustainable practices.
The initiative clearly showcased the school’s comprehensive approach to sustainability, going beyond theoretical discourse to encourage the community to take tangible action.
Julia Gaimster, RMIT Vietnam’s Senior Director of Academic, Research, and Student Life, shared, “Sustainability Week provided an opportunity for our community and beyond to delve into our 7R culture, explore sustainability through an interdisciplinary lens, and connect with organizations making a real difference in Vietnam.”
During the event, attendees and the RMIT community gained insights into sustainability through four interconnected themes.
EMPOWERING THE GREEN WORKFORCE
Cao Le Thanh Loan, Director of Operations and HR Advisor at Manpower Group Vietnam, presented data showing that 70% of global employers plan to hire green talent. She analyzed the National Green Growth Strategy for 2021-2030 and how it drives economic restructuring and enhances competitiveness.
Several business leaders, including Keith Donald Schulz Jr. (Sustainability Director at Motul Asia Pacific), Nguyen Thao My (Strategy Expert at Rice Studios), and Christopher Jordan (Factory Director at Highlands Coffee), also discussed career opportunities in sustainability.
CONSCIOUS CHOICES
Pham Chi Uy, Senior Manager of Fast-Moving Consumer Goods at NielsenIQ Vietnam, analyzed trends and barriers in sustainable consumption.
Meanwhile, Pham Cong Danh, Co-founder and Creative Director of Project Pluto, discussed how media and brand strategies influence consumer behavior and impact the environment.
CIRCULAR ECONOMY IN PRACTICE
Associate Professor Nguyen Quang Trung, Head of the Management Discipline and Co-Manager of the Smart and Sustainable City Center at RMIT Vietnam, along with Associate Professor Nguyen Hong Quan, Director of the Institute for Circular Economy Development at the University of Ho Chi Minh City, presented on the foundations for implementing a circular economy.
The discussion, moderated by Nguyen Huu Hoang, Sustainability Development Manager at Heineken Vietnam, also featured insights from Truong Anh Hai (Vice President of Health, Safety, Environment, and Community Affairs at NS BlueScope Vietnam) and Mai Ha Thanh Uyen (Senior Manager for Corporate Sustainability Development, Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand at Dow Chemical). The panel delved into the integration of digital technology, infrastructure development, and multi-stakeholder collaboration in circular economy initiatives.
SUSTAINABLE FOOD CHOICES
Gricha Safarian, Founder and CEO of Puratos Grand-Place Vietnam, discussed sustainable practices in cocoa farming, exploring how this crop can positively impact the environment and society through responsible sourcing and eco-friendly production methods, while also supporting farming communities.
Throughout the week, RMIT Vietnam faculty, students, and guests also engaged in activities that brought sustainability concepts and practices to life.
The event featured an open exhibition area showcasing the school’s sustainable initiatives. Participants could play interactive games illustrating environmental principles, visit exhibits displaying locally sourced materials and products, observe depictions of sustainability in daily life, and learn about the school’s ongoing environmental projects.
Sustainability Week concluded with a recap of the achievements and important lessons learned from the activities, further solidifying the school’s commitment to sustainability.
“By engaging participants in our activities and workshops, we aim to instill a mindset and awareness of sustainability within the RMIT community and beyond, encouraging everyone to take action towards a more sustainable future,” said Trinh Thi Anh Phuong, RMIT Vietnam’s Sustainability Manager.
The Future of Aviation: Embracing SAF for a Sustainable Tomorrow
“The world is in a climate crisis spin” – this is an alarming ongoing reality. Following through on its commitment at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), Vietnam has officially approved its National Green Growth Strategy, with a bold NetZero 2050 vision.
“Empowering the Sustainable Evolution of the Textile and Footwear Industries”
The Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Industry and Trade and IDH on supporting the sustainable development of Vietnam’s textile and footwear industries will enhance the competitiveness of domestic textile and footwear enterprises. It will also contribute to Vietnam’s international commitments on sustainable development and climate change in the coming years.
The Art of the Dual Transformation: Insights from the Business Arena
The synergy between digital and green transformation is undeniable, and when these two forces combine, they create a powerful momentum for change. The dual transformation journey presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for businesses, even those at the forefront. These challenges are not mere obstacles but catalysts for growth and development. While the cost of this dual transition is significant, the price of falling behind is far greater.
Viettel IDC: Leading the Way in Sustainable Digital Infrastructure in Vietnam
Viettel IDC, Vietnam’s leading large-scale and green Data Center and Cloud Computing services provider, has been recognized for its excellence by winning the prestigious ‘Sustainable Infrastructure Awards’ category at the ESG Business Awards 2024.
Unlocking Product Performance: How Schneider Electric Earned the “Innovative Brand” Accolade
Looking towards a sustainable future, Schneider Electric offers innovative solutions to businesses worldwide with its groundbreaking medium-voltage switchgear, SM AirSeT. This product is not just an award-winning sensation internationally but also a market conqueror domestically.
