Tourism businesses say ‘No’ to plastic waste

The event was organized by the Hanoi Department of Tourism in coordination with the Hanoi UNESCO Travel Club to implement the National Action Program on Sustainable Consumption and Production for the 2021-2030 period, as well as the Hanoi Department of Tourism’s Plan 96/KH-SDL dated July 31, 2024 for the development of the capital’s tourism sector in 2025.

This event was a meaningful activity marking the 15th anniversary of the Hanoi UNESCO Travel Club, which brings together travel agencies, tourism service providers, transportation companies, and accommodation businesses from all three regions of Vietnam.

The event attracted 200 participants, including representatives from the Hanoi Department of Tourism, the Hanoi UNESCO Association, the People’s Committee of Duong Lam Commune, the Management Board of Duong Lam Ancient Village, sponsors, domestic and international tourism businesses, and members of the Hanoi UNESCO Travel Club.

The event aimed to support travel service businesses in surveying and connecting with tourist destinations in Son Tay Town to develop new tours and itineraries. It also provided opportunities for Hanoi travel agencies and tourism service providers in Son Tay to meet, exchange experience, and collaborate on developing tourism products. Additionally, the program contributed to transforming Duong Lam Ancient Village into a ‘green’ and attractive destination in the capital, promoting environmental protection, preserving the landscape, and maintaining cultural heritage for future generations and visitors.

During the event, participants engaged in various exciting activities, including a survey of Va Temple and Mia Pagoda, exploring the ancient village with its 200- to 300-year-old houses, temples, pagodas, and shrines; and learning about traditional customs and handicrafts. Participants also had the opportunity to enjoy famous local food specialties, such as roasted pork, Mia chicken, Mong Phu soy sauce, Che Lam sweet cake, and Keo Doi peanut candy.

A key highlight of the event was the launching ceremony and the unveiling of a promotional sign with the message: “Tourism businesses stay united to protect the environment: Say ‘No’ to plastic waste” at Duong Lam Ancient Village.

Truong Minh Tien, Chairman of the Hanoi UNESCO Association and member of the Hanoi UNESCO Travel Club

At the event, Truong Minh Tien, Chairman of the Hanoi UNESCO Association and member of the Hanoi UNESCO Travel Club, said that this initiative is a practical step toward promoting a ‘green’ lifestyle and raising environmental awareness among tourism businesses, travelers, local communities, and residents. It also contributes to expanding ‘green’ destinations across Hanoi while supporting the sustainable development of Vietnam’s tourism sector.

“Currently, waste in general, and plastic waste in particular, is a global and national problem. Tourism activities are one of the major sources of plastic waste. Through this event, we hope to create a ripple effect in raising awareness of environmental protection and saying ‘No’ to plastic waste in tourism activities,” Truong Minh Tien stated.

He also expressed hope that local residents, tourists, and travel companies will embrace this spirit, strengthen environmental awareness campaigns, and actively refuse plastic waste in tourism activities.