Vietnam’s tourism sector is one of the key industries, attracting more than 18 million international visitors and 85 million domestic tourists in 2019 (General Department of Tourism). However, the rapid growth of the sector also presents significant challenges for the environment. According to a recent study by the World Bank, popular tourist destinations often face substantial amounts of plastic waste, accounting for more than 30% of the total solid waste in many coastal areas.
Ms. Quach Thi Xuan, Country Director, Pacific Environment Vietnam, stated: “Vietnam’s tourism is dealing with a major environmental challenge as the amount of plastic waste from tourists increases significantly. Specifically, in 2019, the sector generated approximately 230,110 tons of plastic waste from tourists. Additionally, there are many tourist attractions that have problems with waste management, leading to a large amount of plastic leaking into the environment, exacerbating the issue of plastic pollution. Reducing plastic waste in the tourism sector must be a priority, especially as the world negotiates a legally binding global treaty to address plastic pollution (Global Plastic Treaty). It is evident that for sustainable tourism development, high-circularity solutions such as reuse and refill are not only an urgent requirement but also an inevitable choice.”
Photo 1: Ms. Quach Thi Xuan – Country Director – Pacific Environment Vietnam
These figures highlight how urgently we need to find solutions to reduce plastic waste, particularly through innovative practices such as Reuse and Refill models. These practices not only minimize single-use plastics but also present opportunities for circular economy development, reducing the burden on landfills in key tourism areas. Promotion strategies, reuse models, and success case-studies that have been practiced in Vietnam’s and international tourism industries were the key topics of the presentations during the two-day workshop.
Ms. Dang Nguyet Anh, Program Manager, NPAP, shared: “Through initiatives like a joint action plan for the tourism sector, we are collectively addressing single-use plastics and advancing the transition to a circular economy in Vietnam. NPAP is honoured to contribute to this effort and looks forward to the first REUSE HUB in Vietnam, which will connect partners in the shared goal to promote sustainable reuse practice in the tourism sector.”
Photo 2: Ms. Dang Nguyet Anh (White blazer) – Program Manager, NPAP
Representatives from businesses and community initiatives in Vietnam shared practical solutions for reducing plastic waste, including reuse programs in tourist areas, hotels, and other tourism services.
The field visit provided an overview of circular economy models in action and how community initiatives can help reduce plastic waste. Delegates discussed successes and challenges in applying these models in tourism and proposed recommendations and strategies to scale reuse practices to other tourism areas across the country.
Ms. Vu Thi My Hanh, Founder, REED Regenerative Solutions, Director of Refillables Đong Đầy and Green Youth Collective, shared: “In recent years, we have built a network of businesses offering waste reduction and circular solutions, working with partners at various tourist destinations to implement models and achieve promising results.
Photo 3: Ms. Vu Thi My Hanh (ao dai) – Founder, REED Regenerative Solutions
Refillables Đong Đầy, with refill stores in Hội An and Hanoi, has now developed nearly 300 products after six years. So far, over 110,000 refills into reusable packaging have been completed, and this number continues to rise every day. In Hội An alone, over 40 businesses have joined the Đong Đầy program.
Green Youth Collective, with its composting facilities and community gardens, is helping divert 500 kg of organic waste daily in the tourist city of Hội An. REED collaborates with destinations with a ‘No Waste’ theme, aiming to make each tourist community a source of inspiration and environmental education locally. We believe that in a circular economy, there are numerous opportunities for employment within community groups and small local businesses while also promoting environmental justice to ensure a good quality of life for vulnerable populations.”
Another key objective of the workshop was to establish the Reuse Hub in Vietnam, connecting initiatives, raising community awareness, and promoting effective reuse models. This network is expected to become a bridge for supporting policies and developing creative solutions, looking forward to zero plastic inVietnam.
The workshop concluded with a strong message about the necessity of collaboration and action, aiming for a plastic-free tourism sector and a circular economy in Vietnam.
Photos at workshop and fieldtrip
