Around 200 attend conference on eco-IPs

The Eco-IP Intervention is funded by Switzerland's State Secretariat for Economic Affairs and implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) and the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI).

The main objective of the conference was to raise awareness about policy and action plans on green growth strategies and the circular economy, and discuss their principles and benefits. The event also facilitated policy dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders to develop and implement supportive regulations and practices. In addition, it also promoted knowledge sharing, capacity building, and innovation to support the transition towards sustainable and resilient industrial development in Vietnam.

"The transition from a linear economic model to a circular one offers a practical solution to address the complex relationship between the economy and the environment. This shift fosters long-term resilience, creates new economic opportunities, and delivers environmental and social benefits," said Le Thanh Quan, director general of the Department of Economic Zones Management under the MPI.

"By integrating the principles of circular economy, such as designing products for longevity, reusing materials, and implementing efficient waste management systems, Vietnam aims to mitigate environmental damage while enhancing economic productivity and social benefits. By adopting initiatives like the Eco-IP approach, where industries collaborate to share resources and minimise waste, Vietnam can reduce its environmental footprint and create new opportunities for innovation and green growth," Quan added.

Le Thanh Quan, director general of the Department of Economic Zones Management under the MPI

At the first session, participants focused on the significance of eco-IPs as catalysts for promoting circular economy principles, shedding light on the pivotal role these parks play in driving sustainable development. Experts also spoke about how eco-IPs serve as dynamic hubs, where industries converge to optimise resource use, minimise waste, foster innovation, and implement eco-approaches. They also showed examples and case studies from Vietnam and other countries.

At the parallel session, the speakers highlighted the pivotal role of the private sector in advancing circular economy initiatives through transformative changes in businesses to drive sustainability. Experts presented circular economy initiatives realised by the private sector that followed mainstream circular economy principles across several industries.

In addition, IP developers shared their experiences and highlighted the approaches, strategies, and importance of policy coherence to overcome the barriers to fully realising the potential of circular economy practices.

At the plenary session, participants elaborated on the testing mechanisms for the circular economy in various industry sectors. Drawing on examples from megacities like Ho Chi Minh City and Haiphong, the speakers provided valuable insights into the development trends of green growth and circular economy strategies to underscore the importance of city policies that prioritise circular economy. The session also demonstrated how proactive measures can spur economic development while safeguarding the environment, driving Vietnam towards a more prosperous and environmentally sustainable future.

Nilgun Tas, an international expert said, "The circular economy is now at the forefront of the competitiveness agenda for various industrial sectors, such as textiles, electronics, plastics, packaging, vehicles, metals, cement and food. Circular economy practices are not just environmentally beneficial but also economically viable, and as a result, improve the competitiveness of IPs."

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