Environmental laws at Vietnam
Vietnam has developed a comprehensive legal framework to address environmental protection, reflecting its commitment to sustainable development and compliance with international environmental standards.
Key Environmental Legislation:
Law on Environmental Protection 2020 (Law No. 72/2020/QH14): Enacted in November 2020, this law provides a robust framework for environmental protection activities in Vietnam. It outlines the rights, obligations, and responsibilities of various stakeholders, including government agencies, organizations, communities, households, and individuals. The law introduces significant reforms, such as enhanced environmental impact assessments, stricter pollution control measures, and the promotion of a circular economy.
Decree No. 08/2022/ND-CP: Issued in January 2022, this decree elaborates on several articles of the Law on Environmental Protection, providing detailed guidelines on environmental protection plans, environmental impact assessments, and the management of environmental protection funds.
Recent Developments:
Amendment of the Law on Water Resources: In November 2023, Vietnam repealed the previous Law on Water Resources No. 17/2012/QH13, replacing it with Law No. 28/2023/QH15. This new legislation regulates the management, protection, exploitation, and use of water resources, as well as measures to prevent and combat harmful effects caused by water.
Environmental Protection Tax Adjustments: In December 2024, Vietnam's National Assembly extended the environmental protection tax cuts on petrol, oil, and lubricants for the year 2025. This measure aims to support the economy's recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting the government's responsiveness to economic and environmental considerations.
Challenges and Ongoing Efforts:
Despite these legislative advancements, Vietnam faces several environmental challenges:
Plastic Waste Management: As the fourth-largest importer of plastic scrap, Vietnam struggles with recycling imported plastic waste due to improper sorting and an unregulated recycling sector. Approximately one-third of imported plastic is recycled properly, while the rest ends up in landfills or the environment.
Coral Reef Degradation: Vietnam's coral reefs, particularly near Nha Trang, are at risk of collapse due to climate change and local human activities. Rising ocean temperatures and acidity cause frequent bleaching events, while economic development, agricultural runoff, construction, and overfishing further weaken the reefs. Only 1% of Vietnam’s reefs remain healthy.
International Engagement:
Vietnam actively participates in international environmental agreements and initiatives, aligning its policies with global sustainability goals. The country has pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 and is working towards phasing out unabated coal power, reflecting its commitment to global climate efforts.
In summary, Vietnam's environmental laws and policies are evolving to address both domestic and global environmental challenges. While significant progress has been made in legislative reforms and international commitments, ongoing efforts are needed to tackle issues such as waste management, ecosystem preservation, and sustainable resource utilization.
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