GCash, the country's go-to finance app, has been crowned the 2023 National Winner of the Energy Globe Award, thanks to its groundbreaking feature - GForest. In a world where sustainability is becoming increasingly crucial, every step towards a greener future is worth celebrating. And in the heart of the Philippines, a digital revolution is taking place, one tree at a time with GForest.
The Rise of GForest
Since its inception in 2019, GForest has been on a mission to turn digital transactions into real-life trees. Imagine this: over 2.7 million trees planted, covering an impressive 11,600 hectares, all with the help of 16.2 million eco-warriors. That's the power of GForest.
Celebrating Innovation in Sustainability
The Energy Globe Awards, hosted by the Austrian Embassy in collaboration with Advantage Austria, shine a spotlight on initiatives that champion sustainability. GForest's triumph in the "Earth" category is a testament to its tireless efforts in reforestation and environmental education.
Praise from the Experts
Christina Stieber, commercial counselor at Advantage Austria, couldn't contain her admiration for GForest, stating, "GForest has virtually planted 3.8 million trees and garnered support from over 16.2 million members. It's a true green revolution!"
GForest: Where Tech Meets Trees
GForest isn't just an app feature; it's a movement. Users earn green energy points with every digital transaction, which they can then use to plant virtual trees. But here's the kicker: these virtual trees are transformed into real ones through partnerships with environmental organizations. It's tech-savvy reforestation at its finest.
A Vision for a Greener Tomorrow
Winsley Bangit, the brains behind GForest, envisions a future where planting trees is as easy as sending a text. "GForest is our way of saying, 'Let's rebuild our forests, one tap at a time'," he remarks with a smile.
With only 6% of the Philippines covered in rainforest, urgent action was needed. GCash stepped up to the challenge with GForest, aligning its efforts with environmental, social, and governance goals. CJ Alegre, Sustainability head of GCash, explains, "GForest isn't just about planting trees; it's about nurturing communities and fostering a culture of environmental stewardship."
Planting Seeds of Change
GForest's impact extends beyond tree planting. By partnering with local organizations like the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc., Friends of HOPE Inc., and World Wildlife Fund for Nature Philippines, GCash ensures that every tree planted creates a ripple of positive change in communities across the Philippines.
