Program Calls for Joint Efforts for Clean Air in Vietnam Hanoi
A program was initiated in Hanoi on June 3 to call for joint action and innovative solutions for clean air in Vietnam’s capital city, in response to the World Environment Day (June 5), local media reported.
The event was co-held by the municipal Department of Natural Resources and Environment, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Hanoi Women’s Union.
Addressing the program launching ceremony, Deputy Director of the Hanoi Department of Natural Resources and Environment Nguyen Minh Tan stressed the significance of promoting practical activities, such as cutting down on plastic bag use, classifying and recycling waste, using renewable energy, and raising public awareness of environmental protection.
UNDP Representative in Vietnam Ramla Khalidi noted that socio-economic losses due to air pollution in Vietnam top $13 billion per year, equal to 4% of the nation’s GDP. She added that UNDP is working to improve air quality in Vietnam in various sectors, including support for the country’s just energy transition and its carbon neutral commitment by 2050 as well as the development of green transportation and a circular economy.