In Ho Chi Minh City, interactive educational lighting systems in parks and playgrounds can be a solution that combines education, technology, and sustainability.

Amid the climate crisis, creative solutions continue to play a crucial role in ensuring a sustainable future.

Imagine taking a stroll in a park at night with screens showing information about solar power and sustainability practices.

This initiative will help improve public awareness of green thinking and enhance community involvement in renewable energy solutions by turning public places into learning and interaction spaces.

Features of an interactive educational lighting system

This design will use solar panels to ensure eco-friendly lighting and cost-effectiveness. The main features include:

1. Solar-powered lights

Solar panels turn sunlight into electricity in the daytime and supply power to the lighting systems at night. Considered the foundation of this project, they help reduce carbon emissions and are an abundant source of renewable energy.

2. Interactive screens

Educational screens will be designed to be included in the showcased lighting systems and equipped with motion sensors. When visitors approach, the screens will light up and display interesting content about how solar power works, the importance of environmentally friendly technology, and tips for a sustainable lifestyle.

3. Games and quizzes

To entertain young users, lighting systems will feature simple games and quizzes related to energy saving and renewable energy.

For example, children can answer questions to change the colors and patterns of lights, encouraging their active participation and furthering their knowledge.

4. Storytelling lights

A designated series of lights will illustrate the journey of a photon from the sun to solar panels, ultimately illuminating parks. The vivid storytelling method helps clarify complicated scientific concepts, making them easily accessible and appealing.

5. Public involvement 

Local schools and communities will be invited to attend seminars on how to create content on the interactive screens, ensuring the display is accurate for the local community.

6. Sustainable design

This design will be set up for the long term and require minimal maintenance. Durable and environmentally friendly materials will be used to minimize impact on the environment.

Benefits of the project

There are many benefits of this project which range from educational to improving safety within green spaces. Their full scope includes:

1. Education

The lighting system integrates learning into daily activities, and the project will improve public awareness of renewable energy and sustainability. Visitors to parks and playgrounds will gain practical energy-saving tips that can easily be incorporated into their everyday lives.

2. Community participation

The interactivity of lighting systems will boost community participation. People from different age groups will go to the parks, eager to learn and interact with the screens there. Increasing pedestrian traffic also creates a bustling public space for connection and sharing knowledge.

3. Safety

The lighting design will improve the safety of individuals walking in the park at night and help parents feel confident while their children play in the evening.

4. Boosting renewable energy

The project is tangible proof of the untapped potential of renewable energy within Ho Chi Minh City. By introducing these initiatives hopefully, residents will feel inspired to consider renewable energy solutions in their homes and businesses.

5. Economic

Unlike traditional lighting systems that depend on power grids, these lights will create energy themselves, reducing power and maintenance costs.

6. Community development

After successful implementation, the project will develop community relations and demonstrate the city's commitment to sustainability. The organization of events and seminars on the installation and use of these systems will encourage public participation and ownership, and the project’s creativity may attract media and increase tourism.

This flagship idea is the perfect combination of solar lights, interactive screens, educational games, and public participation. It is a breakthrough solution that responds to various aspects of sustainability, education, and community participation.

The execution of the project in Ho Chi Minh City will contribute to creating a greener and more sustainable future for all.

* This is an entry by Le Gia Thang, Ngo Tran Xuan Nghi, Tran Mai Anh, Nguyen Quang Huy, and Le Ngoc Khanh Nhu to Tuoi Tre's ‘Illuminating Route to Net Zero’ contest. To join the contest, readers can register at tuoitre.vn/net-zero.html or send their entries to netzero@tuoitre.com.vn from now until October 25, 2024.

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