Hanoi (VNA) - No longer a matter of choice, the green transition in tourism has become a mandatory requirement for any path towards long-term, responsible, and sustainable development.
This was the shared consensus among policymakers, experts, and businesses at the forum “Developing green destinations to elevate Vietnamese tourism,” organized by the Vietnam Tourism Association, held on 11 April in Hanoi.
Enriching travelers’ experiences
Experts affirmed that tourism is not only a key composite economic sector that contributes to GDP growth, job creation, and cultural exchange, but also an essential pillar in a national sustainable development strategy.
Affirming the broader vision of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) that green destinations should go beyond community-based conservation in coastal and protected areas, Mr. Patrick Haverman, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Vietnam, noted: “We also recognize the vital role of green transport. Encouraging travelers to prioritize eco-friendly modes of transport not only enhances their experience but also directly contributes to cleaner air and supports Vietnam’s ambitious net-zero emissions goals.”
According to Mr. Haverman, a pilot project in Phu Yen province and Hue city - marked by the recent opening of “Check-in and share green transport” stations in Tuy Hoa and Hon Yen - is a tangible step in realizing this vision.
Typical examples of sustainable models
In recent years, many localities and businesses have realized that developing green, sustainable tourism is the strategic path to asserting brand value in the global travel market and enhancing national competitiveness.
Tra Que Vegetable Village in Hoi An, Quang Nam province, is a prime example. Thanks to local government initiatives to promote sustainable tourism - through green tour routes and a focus on harmonizing natural and socio-cultural values - this destination continues to attract large numbers of international visitors each year.
In line with the tourism sector’s green transformation, Lux Travel DMC, a member of LuxGroup, has pursued the path of sustainable development through a commitment to using eco-friendly transport, optimizing travel itineraries to reduce fuel consumption, and conducting net-zero emission audits.
The company also supports local communities by integrating tourism with culture, heritage, and livelihoods.
Notably, Lux Travel DMC has implemented carbon offset programs, contributing 1.5 USD per tourist to support forest reforestation, nature conservation, and the protection of local cultures in Vietnam.
A road not paved with roses
Despite initial success in the sustainable tourism journey, Pham Ha, Chairman and CEO of LuxGroup (the parent company of Lux Travel DMC), candidly admits that the green path is far from easy. The greatest challenge, he says, lies in the economic aspect - investing in energy-efficient equipment, waste treatment systems, and environmentally friendly materials all requires high upfront costs and long payback periods.
At LuxGroup, for example, they have replaced all single-use plastic bottles, switched to fabric bags, and equipped offices and cruise ships with energy-saving systems.
To overcome such barriers, Mr. Patrick Haverman emphasized four priority areas for Vietnam’s green transition in tourism: green planning; effective destination management; plastic-free and low-carbon tourism; and nature-based sustainable travel.
To further reduce carbon emissions, Professor Dr. Nguyen Van Dinh, President of the Institute for Tourism Economics, recommended using environmentally friendly transport (such as electric vehicles, bicycles, and public transit), encouraging nature-based tourism and reducing long-haul air travel; limiting the use of single-use plastics in hotels and restaurants; conserving water and electricity; and integrating renewable energy into accommodation facilities. He also stressed the importance of ecosystem protection and avoiding overexploitation of natural resources.
The journey to elevate Vietnamese tourism through the development of green destinations is not only a long-term aspiration but also a strategic necessity and opportunity.
“UNDP Vietnam is committed to working alongside the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Vietnam Tourism Association, and all partners on this transformational journey,” Mr. Haverman affirmed. “A green transition in tourism is not only a powerful driver of economic growth, but also a vital shield to protect Vietnam’s priceless natural heritage for future generations,” he noted.
