Joining hands for environmental protection
There is growing concern about environmental pollution in Vietnam, especially now, when Hanoi is sprucing itself up to celebrate its millennial anniversary.
The General Department for Environment, in coordination with the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung (RLS) and the Vietnam Union of Science and Technology Associations (VUSTA), held an international conference in Hanoi on June 24-25 with the theme “Environment and Hanoi people”.
Delegates shared information and practical experience in mobilising communities and building volunteer networks for environmental protection. They touched upon pollution in Hanoi and worked out measures to deal with it.
VUSTA’s Chairman, Doctor Vu Hoan, said environmental pollution in Hanoi has become more and more serious, particularly solid waste, waste water, and air pollution. Hanoi is implementing a series of measures to prevent further pollution and improve the environment.
Representatives from the Hanoi Women’s Union, the Hanoi Farmer’s Association, and several universities highlighted the important role of social organizations and clubs in protecting the environment.
The RLS Director in Vietnam, Dorit Lahrak, said that like Vietnam, other Asian countries such as China and Malaysia are facing environmental issues. Hanoi has many beautiful lakes and parks, but the city is facing challenges in protecting them, just as Germany did 30 years ago, she observed.
The Germany delegates stressed the need to encourage social organisations and individuals to join hands in dealing with environmental issues.
On the sidelines of the conference, students and members of environmental protection clubs and voluntary groups organised an exhibition on the environment.
