Conference on national action plan for a circular economy net-zero emissions kicks off

The kick-off conference on the national action plan for the circular economy and net-zero emissions - from commitment to action

At the conference, national and international partners exchanged successful circular economy (CE) models from the region and globally, with the intention of identifying suitable models that can be applied in Vietnam. The forum provided an important opportunity for all parties to exchange ideas and prioritise mechanisms and policies to promote CE models.

It hopes to strengthen cooperation and the mobilisation of resources, especially from the private sector, for the development and implementation of the CE model in Vietnam, which is critical to achieving the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.

Beyond the plenary session, the conference included thematic sessions focusing on the following issues: (i) Promoting cooperation in CE through the establishment of a network of partners and knowledge sharing; (ii) Financing and green technologies; (iii) Practical applications of CE (iv) Promoting a CE approach to reduce the adverse effects of plastic pollution on health.

At the Forum, nearly 20 exhibition booths presented participants with a demonstration of CE concepts, approaches, and successful models.

At COP26, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh announced bold commitments to tackle climate change, emphasising that Vietnam will develop and implement strong emissions reduction measures to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

The country will rely on a combination of its own resources, along with the cooperation and support of the international community, to implement mechanisms under the Paris Agreement.

Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Tran Hong Ha stated, “Article 142 of the Law on Environmental Protection adopted by the National Assembly in November 2020 clearly states that ministries, ministerial-level agencies, and provincial People's Committees will incorporate the circular economy transition immediately once a development strategy and planning have been formulated."

"Every production business and service establishment will establish a management system and take measures to reduce the extraction of natural resources, cut waste, and increase recycling and reuse.”

Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Tran Hong Ha and Roongrote Rangsiyopash, president and CEO of SCG

Caitlin Wiesen, UNDP resident representative in Vietnam said, "The circular economy is an opportunity for Vietnam to invest in governance systems, develop strong institutions and policies, foster sustainable business, and bypass pollutive industries to help the nation to rebound with a greener economy of the future."

"We believe that joining our collective efforts and openly sharing data and knowledge will help to shift mindsets and frame a narrative around the circular economy that is tailored to the needs, history, and ambitions of the people of Vietnam. We are therefore delighted to launch the Vietnam Circular Economy Hub together with MONRE and our development partners."

Roongrote Rangsiyopash, president and CEO of SCG added, "A circular economy requires close collaboration between companies, customers, supply chains, and players along the value chains. The joint efforts and collaboration between MONRE and the Thailand Supply Chain Network in making this event a reality is a clear example. Thai businesses are working together with their Vietnamese counterparts to put a more circular economy into practice."

"Our goal is to grow together and work toward future sustainability. I believe that this will be an important part of greater sustainability and the achievement of the net-zero goals in the future,” concluded Rangsiyopash.