Bridging Educational Gaps 

During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, the sudden transition to remote learning exposed a stark digital divide. Many students from underprivileged families faced significant barriers due to a lack of internet access and devices, jeopardizing their education. In response, Tzu Chi partnered with the online learning platform PaGamO to provide free educational content. 

This initiative offered more than academic knowledge—it integrated environmental and disaster prevention education, ensuring that students could continue learning while becoming more aware of sustainability issues. Judges praised the program’s use of gamification to align with national curricula and foster environmental understanding, awarding it the gold under “SDG4-Best ESG Campaign or Case Study to Improve Education or Access to Education.” 

The gold-winning "PaGamO" was praised by for providing free online educational content, including environmental disaster prevention knowledge, ensuring continuous learning. It won the gold award. | Photo courtesy of Tzu Chi Foundation

Promoting Responsible Consumption 

The rise of food delivery services has led to a sharp increase in single-use plastic waste. Tzu Chi addressed this issue in 2021 by launching an eco-friendly vegetarian food delivery platform called VO2 in Hualien , Taiwan. The initiative emphasizes zero-waste delivery by eliminating single-use utensils, while promoting plant-based diets for better health and environmental impact. 

This project earned the silver award in “SDG12-Best ESG Campaign or Case Study to Improve and Encourage Responsible Consumption and Production.” Judges commended its clear objectives and scalability potential for tackling waste and promoting sustainable living. 

The silver-winning "Order VO2 to Reduce CO2" was noted by judges for addressing a clear consumer issue with a well-executed solution that shows potential for impactful scalability over time. | Photo courtesy of Tzu Chi Foundation

Sustained Efforts in Sustainability 

Beyond the award-winning initiatives, Tzu Chi’s efforts extend into broader sustainability and health-related programs. For example, the Foundation refurbishes discarded assistive devices, making them available for free to individuals in need. This initiative, which was recognized under “SDG3-Best ESG Campaign or Case Study to Improve Health and Well-Being,” demonstrates an impressive Social Return on Investment (SROI) of 81.18, providing essential resources for vulnerable families. 

Additionally, under “SDG13-Best ESG Campaign or Case Study to Promote and Encourage Climate Action,” Tzu Chi highlighted its decades-long environmental movement. Involving 110,000 participants across 21 countries, this program focuses on waste reduction, recycling, and the circular economy. While not awarded, it showcased the global scale and long-term impact of Tzu Chi’s environmental efforts. 

On November 8 at midnight Taiwan time, Deputy CEO George Chang represented Tzu Chi Foundation at the ESG & Sustainability Awards 2024 via online video. | Photo courtesy of Tzu Chi Foundation 

Inspiring a Global Mission 

The ESG & Sustainability Awards, organized by PRmoment in the UK, are a significant recognition in the field of environmental, social, and governance excellence. The accolades earned by Tzu Chi reflect not only the innovative and impactful nature of its projects but also its unwavering commitment to addressing urgent global issues. 

By promoting education, sustainability, and responsible consumption, Tzu Chi continues to inspire action and resilience, paving the way for a more sustainable and compassionate world. 

Watch the awards ceremony video here.