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A Critical Shift in the Tourism Sector
Tourism, while a major economic driver for Vietnam, has long been a significant contributor to plastic waste. From single-use bottles and food packaging to plastic straws and bags, the sector has played an undeniable role in escalating plastic pollution. However, the Vietnam Tourism Association (VITA) is leading the charge in addressing this issue. With a commitment from all its members to eliminate single-use plastics by 2030, the sector is positioning itself as a catalyst for change, actively working towards a plastic-free future.
VITA Chairman Vũ Thế Bình explained, "Tourism businesses' active participation in reducing plastic waste is the key to achieving sustainable development goals." This statement underscores the importance of collaboration between businesses, government bodies, and the public in creating a lasting environmental impact.
Groundbreaking Initiatives Already Yielding Results
Since 2018, VITA has been at the forefront of plastic waste reduction in tourism. The association launched campaigns such as "Vietnam Tourism Joins Hands to Reduce Plastic Waste" and "Plastic Waste Reduction in Tourism," encouraging tourism businesses to adopt sustainable practices. One of the most impactful measures introduced was the certification system for "plastic-free tourism businesses," which has already begun to yield impressive results.
In Hội An, for example, hotels reduced plastic waste by 64 percent within just three months of implementing these initiatives. This success story highlights the effectiveness of VITA’s campaigns and sets a model for other tourist destinations across the country to follow.
By 2025, VITA’s goal is for three-quarters of its members to enhance awareness of plastic waste issues, with all tourist sites, hotels, and restaurants eliminating non-biodegradable plastic bags and single-use plastics. Half of these businesses are expected to implement specific guidelines to further reduce plastic waste by the year’s end. The ultimate aim is for 100 percent of VITA members to completely phase out single-use plastics by 2030.
Ninh Bình: A Regional Success Story
In Ninh Bình, a province known for its stunning natural beauty and popular tourist sites like the Trang An landscape complex, the tourism sector has already seen significant progress in reducing plastic waste. The local tourism association reported a 23 percent decrease in plastic waste at hotels, a 14 percent reduction at restaurants, and a 20 percent decrease at tourist sites. These numbers demonstrate that even in the early stages of plastic waste reduction, tangible results can be achieved.
Dương Thị Thanh, Chairperson of the Ninh Bình Tourism Association, emphasized the positive shift within the region's tourism businesses: "Many tourism businesses have taken steps to combat plastic pollution, especially single-use plastics. This is a very positive sign of changing attitudes and actions within Ninh Bình's tourism community."
However, the journey is not without its challenges. Thanh pointed out that the high initial costs of replacing plastic items with eco-friendly alternatives and inconsistent implementation of waste reduction measures remain significant hurdles. Additionally, the persistence of visitors bringing plastic waste into tourism sites highlights the need for broader cultural and behavioral changes.
A Comprehensive Plan for the Future
To address these challenges, the tourism association in Ninh Bình has outlined a clear set of priorities. These include raising awareness among both the public and tourists, developing green tourism products, and mobilizing international resources to accelerate plastic waste reduction efforts. The introduction of a plastic waste management app further enhances these efforts, providing a tracking system for the collection and disposal of plastic waste. The app also plays a crucial role in certifying businesses as "plastic-free," encouraging more companies to adopt sustainable practices.
The app’s success highlights the importance of technology in supporting sustainable tourism. It serves as both a tool for monitoring progress and a platform for promoting eco-friendly businesses, which is crucial in driving systemic change.
International Cooperation and the Road to 2030
Vietnam's commitment to eliminating single-use plastics is not a solitary effort; it involves extensive international cooperation and knowledge-sharing. VITA plans to strengthen partnerships with global organizations and businesses to foster technology transfer and share best practices. By integrating international expertise and resources, Vietnam’s tourism sector can accelerate its transition to sustainability.
The commitment to a plastic-free tourism sector is not just about reducing waste; it’s about transforming the way tourism operates and engaging every stakeholder in the process. From local businesses to international travelers, everyone has a role to play in ensuring that Vietnam’s natural beauty is preserved for future generations.
Conclusion: A Vision for a Sustainable Future
Vietnam’s tourism sector is embarking on a transformative journey to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainability. By committing to the elimination of single-use plastics by 2030, the country is not only addressing a critical environmental issue but also positioning itself as a leader in sustainable tourism.
As Vietnam’s tourism industry embraces these changes, it is setting an example for other destinations around the world to follow. With continued commitment, international collaboration, and the active participation of both businesses and tourists, Vietnam is paving the way for a future where tourism and environmental conservation go hand in hand.
For travelers visiting Vietnam, this initiative offers the opportunity to experience the country’s natural wonders while supporting a sustainable tourism industry. It’s a win-win for the environment, the economy, and the future of tourism.
Web: https://mekongtourism.org/
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