Promoting effective implementation of plastic waste reduction policies in Vietnam: Opportunities and challenges

Abstract

    In Vietnam, plastic waste pollution, especially ocean plastic pollution, has become an alarming issue, leaving serious consequences for the environment. The project “Sources, Sinks, and Solutions for Impacts of Plastic Pollution on Coastal Communities in Vietnam” (3SIP2C) has contributed to a clearer understanding of the sources of marine plastic waste and its impacts on the socio-economic activities of coastal communities, environmental quality, and the health of both natural ecosystems and humans. Based on findings from five key components, the 3SIP2C project has proposed several policy recommendations to mitigate the impact of plastic waste on coastal communities in Vietnam, including: (i) Promulgated policies need to be reinforced by reliable data and supported by scientific research; (ii) Stakeholder engagement should be strengthened in both the policy development and implementation processes; (iii) Policies should be designed with flexibility, allowing for adjustments to suit specific local needs and conditions, thereby improving their feasibility and effectiveness.