Plastic waste is becoming a pressing issue, seriously threatening the environment and the sustainable development of Vietnam’s tourism industry. How can tourism develop while still protecting its inherent natural beauty? The answer lies in promoting “Zero Waste Travel Experiences,” a trend that is increasingly gaining attention and response.
Vietnam Tourism Facing the Plastic Waste Challenge
Vietnam’s tourism industry is experiencing strong growth, attracting millions of domestic and international visitors each year. However, this growth is accompanied by a massive amount of plastic waste, causing environmental pollution and affecting landscapes and public health. Beaches filled with plastic waste not only detract from natural beauty but also negatively impact Vietnam’s tourism image in the eyes of international visitors.
Plastic waste on Vietnamese beaches negatively impacts tourism.
Joining Hands for a Green Future
Recognizing the importance of reducing plastic waste, the Vietnam Tourism Association (VITA) has launched an action plan to minimize plastic waste in the tourism industry. This is a significant step, creating a foundation for implementing plastic waste reduction activities in a systematic and effective manner.
In fact, many countries around the world have implemented regulations on reducing plastic waste. In Vietnam, regulations on the roadmap for plastic waste reduction in general and in the tourism sector in particular have been institutionalized in the 2020 Law on Environmental Protection and Decree 08/2022/ND-CP. Accordingly, from 2025, 100% of tourist areas, accommodation establishments, and hotels will not use non-biodegradable plastic bags and single-use plastic products.
However, experts assess that the legal framework for plastic waste management is still incomplete. Specifically, tourism industry policies do not clearly and specifically address plastic waste management; there is no action plan for the tourism industry on plastic waste reduction; and there is no regulation on coordination between the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism on environmental protection in general and plastic waste management in particular.
Specific Actions to Reduce Plastic Waste in Tourism
To realize the goal of “Zero Waste Travel Experiences,” specific actions are needed from management levels, tourism businesses, and tourists:
1. Raising Awareness and Changing Behaviors
Organize communication campaigns to raise awareness about the harmful effects of plastic waste and encourage tourists and local people to change their behavior, giving up the habit of using single-use plastic items. Tourism businesses need to take the lead in reducing the use of plastic, replacing them with environmentally friendly products.
2. Building and Implementing Effective Policies
Complete the legal framework for plastic waste management in tourism, clearly defining the responsibilities of stakeholders. Develop criteria for assessing and certifying “Green Tourism Establishments,” encouraging businesses to adopt plastic waste reduction solutions.
3. Developing Green Tourism Products and Services
Encourage tourism businesses to develop environmentally friendly tourism products and services, such as eco-tours, community-based tourism, using public transport, and renewable energy. Support businesses that produce and supply plastic alternative products, such as bamboo straws, cloth bags, and reusable water bottles.
Tourists participating in a beach cleanup activity in Ha Long Bay.
4. Promoting Public-Private Partnerships
Strengthen cooperation between state agencies, tourism businesses, social organizations, and local communities in addressing the plastic waste problem. Encourage initiatives and effective plastic waste reduction models that can be replicated.
5. Education and Training
Integrate content on environmental protection and plastic waste reduction into the training programs of tourism schools, enhancing knowledge and skills for the tourism workforce. Organize training courses for local people on waste management and environmental protection.
Towards a Green Vietnam – A Sustainable Tourism Destination
“Zero Waste Travel Experiences” is not just a trend but also an essential requirement to ensure the sustainable development of Vietnam’s tourism industry. With practical actions and the joint efforts of the whole community, we can transform Vietnam into a green, clean, beautiful, and attractive tourism destination for domestic and international visitors.
Preserving a clean and green environment at tourist destinations is everyone's responsibility.
Let’s act together today to protect the environment and build a sustainable tourism future for Vietnam!