Underscoring Environmental Protection in Economic Development

Before the quick pace of industrialisation and modernisation with the presence of new industrial and urban zones like Tra Noc 1, Tra Noc 2, Hung Phu 1, Hung Phu 2 or handicraft complexes like Cai Son Hang Bang and Thot Not, the city has adopted measures to develop its economy while protecting natural resources and environment. All industrial parks must show their waste treatment plans and build central wastewater treatment facilities to eliminate pollution from the initial stages. Especially, the city encourages industrial parks to apply advanced technologies to minimise environmental pollution, follow greener production models and apply ISO 14000 standards. Industrial and handicraft production units have been told to move away from residential zones.

 

In the list of greener production valuations completed in 2002 (names of enterprises applying green production were supplied by consultants), Can Tho had three enterprises applying greener production. With support from the Can Tho University and the Vietnam Green Production Centre, the project started in 2001 and concluded in 2002.

Despite being a centrally governed city, agriculture is still playing a very important role in its economy. However, farmers have pursued profits while ignoring environmental protection solutions. To pursue sustainable development and protect the surroundings, the city’s Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is guiding farmers to adopt GAP and SQF agricultural practices.

 

To develop its modern environment-friendly industry, Can Tho City has issued the Plan 30 on greener production in industrial and handicraft production units in the period from 2007to 2010. At present, two companies are following this plan, namely An Khang Seafood Company and Phuong Dong Seafood Company. Besides, other companies also proactively adopt greener production models like Can Tho Shoes Company, Can Tho Pesticides Company and Ha Tien 2 Cement Joint Stock Company.

 

At present, Can Tho has not central waste treatment facilities; thus, it is very difficult for open dumping sites to effectively process 800 tonnes of rubbish a day. Only two out of five industrial parks in the city have central waste treatment facilities. Therefore, the city is calling investors to build waste treatment systems in industrial parks.