Environmental Responsibility Statement (2024)

One Table Two Chairs Charitable Foundation

The world is at a pivotal moment in addressing the environmental crises that are reshaping our ecosystems and societies. According to the latest scientific reports, the window to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius is rapidly closing, with urgent and transformative action needed across all sectors. We are already witnessing the devastating consequences of climate change, including extreme weather events, biodiversity loss, air and water pollution, and the increasing threat to vulnerable communities worldwide. These challenges require a collective response—and the performing arts, as a cultural and influential force, have a responsibility to lead by example.

At One Table Two Chairs Charitable Foundation, we are deeply committed to preserving the art of Cantonese opera while recognizing that the survival of our cultural heritage is intertwined with the health of our planet. Cantonese opera is not only a legacy of our past but also a tool to inspire, educate, and connect future generations. However, like many cultural institutions, we are not immune to the environmental impacts of our operations, including travel, set production, and energy use. It is our duty to ensure that our artistic mission aligns with the urgent need for environmental sustainability.

Our Environmental Commitment

In 2024, we reaffirm and expand our commitment to environmental responsibility, recognizing that the performing arts can be both a source of environmental impact and a catalyst for meaningful change. As a charitable foundation, we aim to reduce our carbon footprint, embrace sustainable practices, and promote climate action within our community.

Key Commitments and Goals:

1. Carbon Emissions Reduction:

   • We are committed to reducing our CO₂ emissions by 50% by 2030, using 2019 as a baseline, in alignment with initiatives like the Gallery Climate Coalition.

   • Conducting annual carbon footprint assessments to measure our progress and identify new reduction opportunities.

2. Sustainable Travel and Transport:

   • By 2025, we aim to reduce travel-related emissions by 50%, and by 2030, achieve a 75% reduction through the following:

     • Prioritizing local artists and materials to minimize international tours and shipping.

     • Exploring lower-carbon travel options, such as trains and shared transportation.

3. Sustainable Set Construction:

   • Transitioning to sustainable set design practices, ensuring 100% of sets are reusable or recyclable by 2026.

   • Partnering with local artisans and suppliers to reduce the environmental impact of materials.

4. Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy:

   • Reducing energy consumption in our performance venues by 30% by 2030 through energy audits and efficiency upgrades.

   • Investing in renewable energy installations, such as solar panels, where feasible.

5. Zero-Waste Productions:

   • Implementing a zero-waste policy for all productions by 2030, focusing on waste reduction, recycling, and composting strategies.

Actions to Achieve Our Goals

To meet these ambitious targets, we are implementing the following initiatives in 2024 and beyond:

• Green Team Leadership:

  • A dedicated internal team overseeing sustainability efforts, tracking progress, and engaging stakeholders to ensure accountability.

• Collaborative Partnerships:

  • Working with local and international organizations to share best practices, develop innovative solutions, and align with global sustainability standards.

• Supplier Engagement:

  • Actively collaborating with suppliers and partners to prioritize eco-friendly materials and services, with sustainability as a key criterion in procurement decisions.

• Energy Optimization:

  • Conducting energy audits of our venues and implementing energy-saving technologies, such as LED lighting, motion sensors, and efficient HVAC systems.

• Community Engagement:

  • Hosting workshops, talks, and performances that promote environmental awareness and inspire action within our audience and artistic community.

• Sustainability Fund:

  • Allocating a portion of our annual budget to accelerate emission reduction measures, support climate justice initiatives, and invest in sustainable innovations beyond carbon offsetting.

Climate Justice and Inclusion

Our environmental responsibility extends beyond reducing emissions—it is grounded in the principles of climate justice. We recognize that climate change disproportionately affects marginalized communities, many of whom are also the stewards of invaluable cultural and environmental knowledge. Our actions aim to amplify these voices, mitigate inequities, and ensure that our sustainability efforts contribute to a fairer and more inclusive future.

Progress and Accountability

As we move forward, we are committed to transparency and accountability in our environmental journey. We will:

• Actively seek feedback from artists, audiences, and collaborators to refine our practices.

• Continuously evaluate and adapt our strategies based on the latest science and best practices.

Looking Ahead

One Table Two Chairs Charitable Foundation envisions a future where the performing arts are a model for sustainability, inspiring global audiences to take action for our planet. We understand that this is an ongoing process, requiring dedication, collaboration, and innovation. Together, with our partners and community, we can ensure that Cantonese opera—along with the natural world that sustains us—thrives for generations to come.

We invite everyone who shares our commitment to environmental responsibility to join us in this critical endeavor.