Ha Noi, April 24–25, 2025 - In the face of increasingly severe air pollution, which directly affects public health and sustainable development, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the World Health Organization (WHO), is organizing the National Conference on Air Quality Control and Improvement in Viet Nam.

The conference brought together over 200 delegates, including leading scientists and experts from Tsinghua University, Peking University (China), the Asian Institute of Technology, as well as representatives from various ministries (Construction, Health, Industry and Trade), key localities such as Ha Noi, Hung Yen, Bac Ninh, Ho Chi Minh City, and major corporations, associations, enterprises, and international organizations.

According to a report from the Department of Environment under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, air pollution in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City has been on the rise recently. The so-called "pollution season" typically spans from October to April, during which the Air Quality Index (AQI) often reaches poor to moderate levels, raising concerns for public health. The rise in pollution correlates with urbanization, industrial development, and increased transportation and construction activities.

Speaking at the conference, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Mr. Le Cong Thanh emphasized: “Air has no administrative borders; protecting air quality is the responsibility of all society. We cannot afford delays—we must act scientifically, decisively, and effectively to safeguard public health and sustainable development.”

Ms. Ramla Khalidi, UNDP Representative in Viet Nam, highlighted: “Tackling air pollution requires a multi-stakeholder, cross-sectoral approach—with effective coordination between central and local governments, and the active participation of key sectors, businesses, academia, media, and community partners. Supporting the government’s leadership, UNDP and WHO are committed to working alongside central and local agencies across Vietnam to enhance governance and data-driven air quality management, address pollution sources, and promote public engagement.”

Dr. Angela Pratt, WHO Representative in Viet Nam, shared: “Viet Nam is in a moment of real opportunity. We have seen exceptionally strong commitment from Viet Nam’s leaders, at the highest levels, to tackle air pollution. Now the challenge is to turn that commitment into policies, regulations and enforcement strategies which will deliver cleaner air. We know that this will not be easy, but the possibility is immense for Viet Nam. Clean air will improve health, save lives and strengthen the economy. WHO could not be more proud or more committed to support this work, alongside UNDP and other partners.”

This conference is a vital forum not only for assessing the current situation and sharing international experiences but also for proposing innovative scientific solutions aligned with trends in digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and practical feasibility—all aimed at reducing pollution and achieving the goal of “Blue Skies – Clean Air”.

The conference focused on key issues related to air pollution control in Viet Nam. Delegates evaluated the current status and causes of pollution, identifying major emission sources such as traffic, construction, industry, and the burning of agricultural by-products. They also analyzed the impacts of weather and climate conditions. The event summarized efforts made by ministries and localities—especially in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City—under government mandates. Additionally, international experts from Tsinghua University, Peking University, and the Asian Institute of Technology shared lessons learned from Beijing's effective pollution control strategies. Finally, the conference identified ongoing challenges, including fragmented emissions data, limited monitoring infrastructure, and the high costs of green transition, and proposed policy, technical, and communication solutions to finalize the National Action Plan for the upcoming phase.

The scientific conference marks a joint effort by Viet Nam to address environmental pollution and fulfill global commitments—moving toward a future of clean air, livable cities, and a sustainable environment for future generations.

For further information, please contact:

UNDP Viet Nam: Ms. Phan Huong Giang, Media & Communications Analyst, Climate Change, Energy, and Environment, Phone: 0948466688. Email: phan.huong.giang@undp.org

WHO Viet Nam: Ms. Loan Tran, Phone: 0915413814, Email: wpvnmmedia@who.int

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Editor’s Notes:
Based on insights shared by delegates, experts, and scientists, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment calls on ministries, localities, businesses, and communities to join hands in implementing key solution groups under the draft National Action Plan on air pollution mitigation and air quality management for 2025–2030. Major activities include:

1.     Improving Policy and Regulatory Frameworks
- Enact environmental protection taxes/fees on emissions, provide import tax incentives for emission control technologies, and financial support for green transition.
- Develop a roadmap for clean fuel supply and fuel quality control by September 2025, aligned with vehicle emission standards.
- Finalize a decree on administrative penalties for air pollution violations with stricter sanctions.

2.    Controlling Emission Sources and Applying Technology
- Conduct emission inventories and build a national database; integrate automatic monitoring systems at major emission sources (thermal power, cement, steel).
- Apply AI, Big Data, and IoT for pollution analysis, forecasting, and alerts; pilot best available emission control technologies in key industries.
- Promote recycling of agricultural by-products and construction waste; strengthen open burning control via remote monitoring (satellites, cameras, iHanoi mobile app).

3.    Promoting Green Transport and Sustainable Construction
- Establish “low emission zones” in Hanoi and expand to Ho Chi Minh City, Hai Phong, Da Nang, and Can Tho; target 90% electric bus usage in Hanoi and HCMC by 2030.
- Pilot incentives for converting old motorbikes to electric ones; support students using public transport and expand charging infrastructure.
- Apply green building technologies, control dust on construction sites, and recycle construction waste; implement misting systems and routine street cleaning, especially during the “pollution season.”

4.    Enhancing Monitoring and Emergency Response
- Modernize automated monitoring systems to ensure continuous, transparent data; build short- and long-term air quality forecasting systems.
- Conduct emergency response drills when AQI exceeds 300 for three consecutive days, combined with mobile app and local television alerts.

5.    Public Communication and International Cooperation
- Develop community outreach campaigns; disclose AQI via digital boards, apps, and social media; encourage public oversight and reporting of violations.
- Strengthen cooperation with UNDP, WHO, and international partners including China and Thailand for technology transfer, staff training, and environmental funding.
- Mobilize diverse financial resources, including state budgets, ODA, green credit, green bonds, and community funds for air pollution control projects.