Sustainable Tourism in Vietnam: Balancing Growth with Environmental Conservation

Strategic Insights -

Vietnam's tourism industry is set to become a driving force in the country's economy by 2030, with a focus on developing its coastal and island resorts, marine sports, and leisure activities. With its stunning beaches and diverse marine ecosystems, Vietnam has become a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers. However, rapid growth has put a strain on the environment, with plastic waste, coral degradation, and biodiversity loss emerging as major concerns. The Institute for Tourism Development Research predicts that plastic waste generated by tourists could triple by 2030, reaching over 336,000 tonnes annually. To address this crisis, various initiatives are underway, including coral reef restoration projects, marine conservation programs, and community-led clean-up campaigns. The Government is also introducing policies to manage plastic waste in the tourism sector, aiming for all tourist sites and accommodations to eliminate single-use plastics and non-biodegradable bags by the end of this year.

Key Takeaways:

  • Vietnam's marine tourism contributes between 60 to 70 per cent of overall tourism revenue.
  • Plastic waste generated by tourists could triple by 2030, reaching over 336,000 tonnes annually, according to the Institute for Tourism Development Research.
  • A coral reef restoration project in Nha Trang Bay has successfully revived over 15 hectares of damaged reefs since 2015.
  • The marine conservation program in the Cham Islands has helped protect over 16,000 hectares of sea area, restoring natural reefs and limiting overfishing.
  • Community efforts, such as the 'Joining hands for a blue sea' campaign, led by GreenHub, mobilize thousands of volunteers each year to clean beaches and raise environmental awareness.
  • The Government has introduced policies to manage plastic waste in the tourism sector, aiming for all tourist sites and accommodations to eliminate single-use plastics and non-biodegradable bags by the end of this year.
  • Experts argue that sustainable coastal tourism must be a shared responsibility involving authorities, businesses, and communities.
  • Eco-tourism development, green technology for waste management, and public awareness campaigns are seen as crucial steps towards sustainable tourism.
  • Chairman of the Vietnam Tourism Association, VA(c) Thao Binh, emphasizes that sustainable tourism is not solely the responsibility of the Government, but requires active participation from every citizen and visitor.

Statistics:

  • 3,260km of coastline in Vietnam, running from north to south
  • 60-70 per cent of tourism revenue comes from marine tourism
  • Over 336,000 tonnes of plastic waste generated by tourists annually by 2030
  • 15 hectares of damaged reefs restored in Nha Trang Bay since 2015
  • 16,000 hectares of sea area protected in the Cham Islands through marine conservation program
  • 200,000 visitors annually to the Cham Islands, generating around US$30 million
  • 10,000 people participated in the 'Act for a blue ocean' campaign on June 8, collecting 72 tonnes of waste and cleaning over 17 hectares of coastline and estuaries

Sources:

  • Institute for Tourism Development Research
  • Professor Dr Nguya ...n Tha SSy La PSi University
  • GreenHub
  • For a Green Future Foundation
  • Vietnam Tourism Association
  • The Government of Vietnam, Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism