Vietnam/ Promoting alternatives to single-use plastic

Pollution caused by plastic waste is becoming a growing concern, posing a serious threat to the human environment.

In Vietnam, data from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment reveal that around 1.8 million tonnes of plastic waste are dumped into the environment every year. On average, each household consumes around 1 kg of nylon bags per month.

However, the treatment and recycling of plastic waste remains limited. Currently, around 90% is disposed of by landfilling, filling or burning, and only 10% is recycled. In recent years, the volume of plastic waste from household products and nylon bags has tended to increase.

As part of the "Reducing plastic waste in Vietnam's oceans" project, implemented by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Dr Nguyên Trung Thang and a research team from theInstitute for Strategy and Policy on Natural Resources and the Environment have put forward several recommendations aimed at reducing the use of nylon bags, foam boxes and plastic straws. Their proposals focus on three areas: policy development, market promotion and behavioral awareness.

Dr Nguyên Trung Thang believes that the key lies in implementing the right policies. It is essential to put in place regulations setting standards for recognizing and certifying alternatives, in order to encourage their adoption. These policies must include incentives for environmental protection, as well as support for communication and marketing.

To limit the production, import and consumption of disposable plastic products and non-degradable nylon bags, a roadmap must be drawn up to increase environmental protection taxes and processing fees. At the same time, tax measures should be applied to companies involved in the production, import and sale of these items. This tax incentive would encourage companies to adopt environmentally-friendly alternatives.

Dr Nguyên Trung Thang also stressed the importance of promoting start-ups developing sustainable products and solutions. Dedicated funding and cooperation opportunities should be put in place to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship in the fight against plastic pollution.

Credits and tax incentives should also be made available to companies that adopt environmentally-friendly production methods, invest in sustainable materials or become involved in the manufacture and sale of alternative products.

In addition, the research team recommended encouraging companies to stop distributing disposable plastic products and non-degradable nylon bags free of charge.

Innovation in the design, production and marketing of these products is essential if eco-friendly alternatives are to gain market acceptance.

Finally, improving consumer awareness and behavior is a long-term solution. Educational programs need to be developed to inform people about the harmful effects of single-use plastics on human health and the environment.

Source: lecourrier.vn/