Karino AyakoSDGs—the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals—is a hot topic influencing many countries and companies to incorporate the concept into their strategy. The entertainment industry is no exception—K-Pop boy group BTS performed at the United Nations in September last year, with a statement to the audience to follow the SDGs and be inspired to action. In Japan, video production company Chiyoda Raft announced last November that they have formed an idol group focused on the SDGs, with the mission to “spread the message of the SDGs in a bright, enjoyable and cute way” to the world.
The name CoCoLo ♡ RiPPLe is derived from the word “kokoro,” meaning “heart” in Japanese and “ripple,” alluding to the feeling of “spreading out” in English. The group consists of seven young women chosen from the approximately 300 who applied in auditions that took place from July 2021. The group aims to help raise awareness and promote the SDGs from Tokyo to the world, utilizing the power of pop and the cuteness of idol groups.
Chiyoda Raft came up with the idea when they realized that not many people were aware of the SDGs despite the many efforts being made in various areas of society. Surveys showed that more than 40% of individuals still had no interest or understanding of the SDGs. Since there are less than ten years left until 2030, the deadline in which the United Nations announced that every nation should try and solve the 17 goals and 169 targets set in the SDGs, Chiyoda Raft saw the need to take immediate action. They thought that by spreading awareness of the SDGs through their initiative, they would be able to provide a helping hand in achieving the SDGs’ goals.
The reason why they chose to form an idol group focused on the SDGs is that idols have the power to make people happy through singing, dancing, handshake events, and live streaming, typically for Generation Z—people born after the latter half of the 1990s. At first glance, SDGs may seem complex to some, but if idols that they become familiar with disseminate SDGs initiatives and information, there’s a good chance that they will become interested in the SDGs. Chiyoda Raft has the know-how of expanding the recognition of the idol group to a wider audience through their experience of video planning and production over the years.
Moreover, through crowdfunding started on January 7, they hope to gather supporters who are willing to support CoCoLo ♡ RiPPLe and the group’s growth. Chiyoda Raft plans to offer various original goods such as early-bird live tickets, photo books, T-shirts, and tote bags made of durable and eco-friendly sustainable materials to its supporters. The funds collected will be used to support the idol group’s activities to spread awareness of the SDGs, including live concerts and video production.
CoCoLo ♡ RiPPLe’s have already started their journey. The group recently released their debut single Home Party on January 7, and their first live concert will be held on February 20, 2022, at SHIDAX Culture Hall. Here is their music video on Youtube:
To find out more about CoCoLo ♡ RiPPLe, visit their official website or follow them on Twitter, Instagram and Tik Tok.
[Reference] Sustainable Development Goals
