Viet Nam Embraces Low-Carbon Tourism with Green Initiatives

Viet Nam is making significant strides in promoting low-carbon tourism, with a focus on reducing the carbon footprint of the travel industry. As the global travel sector faces rising concerns about its environmental impact, Viet Nam’s tourism sector is actively working to encourage green travel through various innovative initiatives, aimed at minimizing carbon emissions and fostering sustainable tourism practices.

Green Itineraries and "Net Zero Passports"

Local travel agencies in Viet Nam are playing a pivotal role in championing sustainable travel. Many operators are introducing green itineraries designed to reduce carbon emissions, offering travelers eco-friendly alternatives without compromising the experience. One such initiative is the “Net Zero Passport,” launched in Ben Tre Province by C2T Media and Tourism in collaboration with the Institute for Applied Research and Enterprise Innovation (3AI). This program encourages tourists to document the carbon emissions associated with the products they use during their travels. Travelers are given notebooks and pencils to record the carbon footprint of their activities, creating a unique and informative way to raise awareness about sustainable travel.

Moreover, Vietravel Holdings, the largest tourism group in Viet Nam, has led the charge with its “Go Green” program since 2013. This initiative includes providing biodegradable bags to tourists and organizing group clean-ups at popular tourist sites. Additionally, the program offers specially arranged accommodations, transportation, and activities that are designed to minimize carbon emissions, allowing travelers to enjoy the beauty of Viet Nam while contributing to its environmental sustainability.

Transportation Innovations for Sustainable Travel

As transportation is responsible for over 70% of carbon emissions related to tourism, it has become a critical area of focus in Viet Nam's efforts to reduce its environmental impact. Vietnam Airlines has taken a pioneering step by successfully testing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) on a flight from Singapore to Hanoi. This test flight utilized a blend of SAF derived from biomass, making it the first Vietnamese airline to experiment with this eco-friendly alternative to traditional aviation fuel. By adopting SAF, the airline is helping to reduce the carbon emissions from air travel, setting a positive example for others in the region.

Beyond air travel, Viet Nam is also investing in rail travel as a greener alternative. The Ministry of Transport is exploring the electrification of the country’s rail network, aiming to use clean energy by 2050. A key part of the nation’s plans is the development of a high-speed railway line connecting the northern and southern parts of the country. Spanning 1,541 kilometers and featuring 23 stations, this ambitious project is expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions from travel within Viet Nam, offering a cleaner and more efficient way to explore the country.

Government Support for Sustainable Tourism

The Vietnamese government is actively supporting the transition towards sustainable tourism with an eye on carbon reduction. In addition to the electrification of the rail network, the government has been involved in promoting eco-friendly practices across the tourism sector. Policies to encourage sustainable infrastructure, the use of green technologies, and the protection of natural resources are expected to play a significant role in shaping the future of the industry.

According to a recent independent survey conducted among 1,000 individuals aged 18 and over, 96% of respondents believe that sustainable tourism is a crucial factor in their travel decisions. Additionally, 94% expressed a willingness to choose more sustainable travel options within the next 12 months. This growing trend reflects a global shift towards environmentally conscious travel, which is influencing both the demand for low-carbon tourism and the development of greener travel options in Viet Nam.

The Future of Green Tourism in Viet Nam

As Viet Nam continues to embrace low-carbon tourism, the country's innovative approaches to green travel are positioning it as a leader in sustainable tourism in the region. With a combination of eco-friendly itineraries, sustainable transportation options, and a growing awareness among travelers, Viet Nam is paving the way for a future where tourism contributes to the preservation of the environment rather than its depletion.

As the global demand for responsible travel continues to grow, Viet Nam's initiatives are setting a positive example for other nations in the Mekong region and beyond. With continued investment in sustainable practices, Viet Nam is not only protecting its natural beauty but is also ensuring that future generations of travelers can experience the wonders of the country in a way that respects and preserves the environment.

Source: Vietnam+, RMIT, The Investor