Imperatives for Vietnam to Achieve Net Zero Emissions By 2050

4:14:16 PM | 12/13/2023

As Vietnam targets net zero emissions by 2050, crucial endeavors beyond the power generation sector demand meticulous attention. While Power Plan 8 approved by the government delineates a specific roadmap for emissions reduction in the electricity industry, other sectors need concerted efforts for meaningful progress. Globally, energy, transportation, production and construction, agriculture, food retailing, fashion, and technology emerge as the seven sectors with the highest emissions.

Mr. Le Ngoc Anh Minh, Executive President of Pacific Group and Chairman of Vietnam ASEAN Hydrogen Club, formalizes a cooperation agreement with Idro Group, Italy, September 2023

In the realm of road transport, Vietnam grapples with approximately 60 million motorbikes and 4.5 million cars. The continuous surge in newly registered automobiles and motorbikes in major cities like Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi underscores the escalating emissions in urban areas. Despite the notably high emission levels in waterway, maritime, and aviation transport sectors, Vietnam currently lacks a specific mechanism for emissions reduction, even following the issuance of Notice No. 49 by the Ministry of Transport during discussions on fulfilling Vietnam's commitments at COP26 and the Action Program on Green Energy Conversion.

Industries with substantial emissions, such as agriculture, manufacturing, and construction, face formidable challenges in transitioning to emission reduction due to significant investments required for green technology and expensive carbon storage technology. Air pollution levels in major cities persistently remain high, indicating an increase rather than a decrease in emissions.

While ministries and sectors have been developing emission reduction roadmaps for their respective industries, the question of implementation remains. Numerous forums on emission reduction and the green economy were held in 2023, but the execution of the discussed strategies is yet to be seen. It’s important to note that an increase in GDP often corresponds to an increase in emissions, not a decrease.

Mr. Le Ngoc Anh Minh engages in a discussion on sustainable development with representatives from the Italian Embassy, the Italian Chamber of Commerce, and Eurocham

Emission reduction should not be limited to the agriculture, energy, construction, and transportation sectors. The education sector can also play a significant role. Given Vietnam’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, it is imperative for the Ministry of Education and Training to integrate this goal into curricula at all levels. Every student, citizen, and business must be fully aware of the Net Zero 2050 objective. Businesses that understand this goal will be more likely to take prompt action to reduce emissions.

If there is confusion about Net Zero 2050 among people and businesses, the roadmap may not be feasible, especially considering the time constraints. Countries like China and Indonesia have set their net-zero roadmaps to 2060 and have relatively systematic action plans. Vietnam, however, has set its goal a decade earlier, which requires clear awareness and collective action from all people and businesses.

The National Assembly could consider passing a law on Net Zero 2050, and the Government could establish a subcommittee to oversee its implementation. This would ensure that the country stays on track to meet its ambitious environmental goals.

Net zero roadmap of Indonesia