## Vietnam’s Tourism Sector Embraces Sustainability: Towards Net Zero Emissions by 2050
Vietnam’s tourism industry is making strides towards a greener future, actively working to minimize its carbon footprint and achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050. This commitment to sustainability extends across the sector, from individual businesses to government initiatives, reflecting a broader national goal of achieving carbon neutrality by the same year.
Tracking Carbon Footprints to Lower Emissions
Leading tourism companies are taking the lead in reducing their environmental impact. Oxalis Travel, renowned for its Son Doong cave tours, has become a pioneer in measuring its greenhouse gas emissions. Recognizing the significant role tourism plays in contributing to CO2 emissions, even within a seemingly ‘smokeless’ industry, Oxalis has implemented a three-pronged strategy to minimize its footprint:
1.
Evaluating Emissions:
Conducting thorough assessments of emissions generated by the company and its products.2.
Internal Actions:
Taking steps to reduce emissions within the company, such as optimizing operations and adopting energy-saving practices.3.
Collaboration and Carbon Offsetting:
Partnering with suppliers and external partners to further reduce emissions and investing in carbon credits to offset any remaining emissions.This proactive approach is not limited to high-end travel. Oxalis acknowledges that both luxury and budget travelers are increasingly seeking eco-friendly experiences that prioritize environmental responsibility. The company aims to achieve Net Zero emissions within its operations (Scope 2) by 2026 and extend this goal to suppliers and partners (Scope 3) by 2030.
Vietravel’s Go Green Initiative
Vietravel Holdings, another prominent tourism company, has launched the ‘Go Green’ initiative in collaboration with the National Tourism Authority. This initiative focuses on promoting eco-friendly travel practices, reducing waste, and minimizing emissions. Vietravel has been active in implementing the Go Green campaign since 2013, reaching various provinces through initiatives such as providing tourists with biodegradable bags, organizing clean-up activities at tourist sites, and encouraging sustainable practices. The company also meticulously tracks the carbon footprint of each tourist, evaluating emissions from transportation, accommodation, dining, and entertainment, enabling them to implement effective solutions for reducing emissions.
Ben Tre’s Net Zero Passports: A Pioneering Initiative
Ben Tre province has taken a significant step forward in sustainable tourism by introducing Vietnam’s first ‘Net Zero Passports’. These passports are given to tourists participating in the ‘Net Zero Tours Ben Tre’, a pioneering initiative developed by C2T Communications and Tourism Company, in partnership with the Institute for Applied Research and Business Innovation (3AI). The Net Zero Passport allows tourists to document their choices throughout the tour, tracking their carbon footprint through a simple notebook and pencil. Tourists are encouraged to select low-emission options, opting for products and experiences that minimize their environmental impact. They also participate in engaging activities that highlight the differences in carbon emissions associated with various choices, such as comparing the environmental impact of consuming different fruits.
The Future of Sustainable Tourism in Vietnam
The tourism sector in Vietnam has already embraced ‘green tours’ across various destinations, from cave exploration tours in Phong Nha-Ke Bang to island-hopping in the ‘Tứ Bình’ region. These tours prioritize sustainable practices, incorporating elements like beach cleaning, agricultural tours, and forest-bathing experiences. The Vietnam National Tourism Administration is actively promoting ‘Net Zero tours’, meticulously calculating emissions and offsetting them through initiatives such as tree planting, renewable energy adoption, and emission reduction projects, to achieve carbon neutrality.
The ongoing efforts to promote sustainable tourism in Vietnam demonstrate a commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility. By embracing initiatives like carbon footprint tracking, eco-friendly practices, and carbon offsetting programs, Vietnam is paving the way for a greener future for tourism, ensuring that its breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures can be enjoyed by generations to come.