Can Tho (VNA) – The Mekong Delta is becoming a “hotspot” for single-use plastic waste, which accounts for up to 72% of total plastic waste in the region, according to a recent study.
In Can Tho, the density of plastic litter in rivers and canals running through urban areas is nearly three times higher than in rural zones, heard a workshop themed "Connecting, training, sharing experience of ASEAN eco-schools – Plastic-waste-free schools," held on October 8 in Can Tho by the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.
Citing a 2022 World Bank survey, Nguyen Van Khoi, Vice Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee, said that the Mekong Delta faces a serious challenge from single-use plastics. He stressed that the “plastic-waste-free school model” plays a vital role in addressing this problem by integrating environmental education into the curriculum and fostering green habits among students.
"I believe that through small actions, such as reducing plastic bottles, sorting waste at the source or recycling school supplies, students will become environmental ambassadors, spreading positive messages to their families and communities,” said Khoi.
Can Tho has been a leading locality in developing eco-school initiatives, with many schools winning national and ASEAN awards. However, Khoi noted that plastic pollution in rivers and canals remains a major challenge for both the city and the wider Mekong Delta. He urged the education sector to carry forward its core role in expanding green school models, while local authorities and social organisations strengthen support and resource mobilisation for environmental initiatives.
Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Le Cong Thanh, who also heads the organising committee of the ASEAN Eco-School Awards in Vietnam 2025, emphasised that environmental education is not only the responsibility of schools but also the foundation for building environmentally conscious communities that act to protect the planet.
The official expressed his hope that the event will raise environmental protection awareness, encourage innovative initiatives in teaching and learning, contribute to building a 'bright–green–clean–beautiful' school community and support the sustainable development goals of the nation as well as the region./.
