Policymakers and industry insiders convened at a forum within the VIETNAM INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL MART (VITM) 2024, titled "Vietnam Tourism – Green Transition for Sustainable Development," to explore strategies for fostering eco-friendly practices in the tourism sector. Held in Hanoi on April 12, the event aimed to catalyze a shift towards sustainability and encourage collaboration among stakeholders to nurture a green and circular economy in tourism.

Vice Director of the VIETNAM NATIONAL AUTHORITY OF TOURISM (VNAT), Ha Van Sieu, emphasized the growing demand for green, high-quality, and wellness tourism among travelers. He urged industry players to embrace sustainability from mindset to action, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship and developing eco-friendly destinations, products, and services.

Chairman of the Vietnam Tourism Association, Vu The Binh, highlighted the urgency of addressing climate change and environmental protection, noting the government's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. He emphasized the economic benefits of green transition, projecting tourism to contribute significantly to the country's GDP while preserving biodiversity and enhancing livelihoods.

Experts underscored the importance of green planning, effective destination management, and initiatives to promote plastic-free and low-carbon travel. Partnerships between organizations like the UNDP and the VIETNAM TOURISM ASSOCIATION have spearheaded projects to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainable tourism practices nationwide.

The forum concluded with a call for technological innovation, energy efficiency, and responsible tourism practices to drive the green transition forward, ensuring a harmonious balance between economic development, environmental conservation, and social responsibility.