Vietnam is ushering in a new era of environmental awareness within its educational institutions, marked by the recent launch of the ASEAN Eco-School Award 2025 in Hanoi. This significant seminar, themed "Plastic-Free Schools: Actions for a Green Generation," underscores a deep commitment to cultivating eco-friendly learning environments nationwide.
The initiative aligns with Vietnam's broader national strategy for sustainable development and its global environmental commitments, including the UN's call to "Beat Plastic Pollution." Professor Dang Thi Kim Chi, a prominent figure in Vietnam's environmental science sector, highlighted the evolution from the earlier "Green-Clean-Beautiful Schools" concept to a more comprehensive "Eco-School" model. This updated approach integrates principles of sustainable consumption and the circular economy, directly addressing critical challenges like climate change and plastic pollution.
Practical implementation is being led by educators such as Ms. Nguyen Thi Linh Chi, Deputy Principal of Thong Nhat Secondary School in Hue. Her school, which has experienced significant impacts from natural disasters, is prioritizing education on plastic waste reduction. Through engaging extracurricular activities, creative recycling projects, and dedicated green clubs, students are actively becoming environmental advocates, extending their awareness and influence to the wider community.
UNICEF, a key partner in this transformation, emphasizes that fostering sustainable student behaviors is intrinsically linked to the commitment and actions of educators and administrators. Ms. Le Anh Lan from UNICEF noted the organization's collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Training to develop climate-adaptive school models and platforms that empower student-led environmental initiatives.
Architect Hoang Thuc Hao, recognized for his innovative, nature-integrated designs, stresses the importance of architectural planning in nurturing an ecological spirit within schools. His work often blends natural elements with functional spaces to create environments that embody sustainability. Discussions at the seminar also addressed practical challenges, including managing plastic waste with limited resources and modifying ingrained student habits regarding single-use plastics, particularly in rural areas. Experts offered concrete solutions to assist schools in navigating these challenges effectively.
The prevailing sentiment from the seminar is that the Eco-School concept must transition from an idea to a tangible, operational model, deeply embedded in the daily fabric of teaching, learning, and community engagement. This nationwide push for eco-schools represents a significant stride in cultivating sustainable educational practices for Vietnam's future generations, aligning with the nation's goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Vietnam's participation in the ASEAN Eco-Schools program further demonstrates its commitment to environmental education, aiming to create a regional network of green schools that recognize outstanding environmental achievements and foster a culture of sustainability among students and educators.
This national endeavor is supported by initiatives like the "For Green Future" Foundation of Vingroup JSC, which has been instrumental in recognizing and promoting eco-school models. The broader national strategy, including the National Program of Action on Climate Change to 2050, underscores the vital role of education, community capacity-building, and awareness-raising in addressing climate change. Vietnam's proactive stance in environmental education is also reflected in its alignment with global efforts, such as the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, and its drive to build a green education system where every student and teacher acts as an ambassador for a sustainable environment.