Vietnam needs decisive action to achieve net zero goal

Vietnam is working towards the net zero emission goal by 2050.

A major goal like net zero requires the participation of the entire society. It is a fact that despite the significant benefits net zero brings, in some places and among certain segments of the population, the understanding of net zero and how to implement it remains rather vague.

Awareness of sustainable business practices and emissions reduction is becoming increasingly widespread, but the transition has not yet been truly embraced or widely applied by many small and medium enterprises, production households, and business households — forces that constitute the majority at provincial and city levels.

Additionally, many people are still reluctant to fully learn about the net zero goal, methods of measuring and controlling emissions, as well as related financial mechanisms such as the carbon credit market. Some places still view this merely as a simple environmental issue, rather than recognising it as a comprehensive challenge related to economics, industry, transport, energy, and finance.

Many citizens have not fully recognised that everyday activities such as using coal stoves, burning rubbish, wasteful electricity consumption, and using private vehicles all contribute to the nation’s emissions. This is not because people are indifferent to the environment, but because they have not had adequate access to information and do not clearly see their responsibilities nor the benefits of reducing emissions.

Experts share that synchronised action is needed from the central government down to local governments and citizens, so that net zero is not just a slogan. To achieve this, localities need strong determination to establish a robust mechanism with sufficient professional capacity to implement emission reduction programmes effectively.

The task of public education and raising awareness about net zero must continue to be prioritised. People cannot change if they do not clearly understand what net zero is and why they need to participate.

Relevant agencies need to develop creative, practical communication programmes to help citizens, businesses and local government systems understand climate change and their role in the emission reduction process.

Currently, emissions accountability in Vietnam mainly focuses on several major sectors, while there is no rigorous measurement system at the local level. Developing an emissions map would help each locality implement appropriate reduction solutions and coordination.

Each locality has different socio-economic characteristics, so a common model should not be applied. Each locality should develop an emissions reduction roadmap suitable for its conditions, while monitoring and evaluating effectiveness at each stage.

Vietnam has only 25 years left to achieve the net zero goal. The country must begin now to succeed in the global green race.