Green energy transition drives sustainable urban development

On November 7, the Viet Nam Agriculture and Nature News (VAN News), in collaboration with the Department of Environment and the Department of Climate Change (Ministry of Agriculture and Environment), hosted the forum "Green Energy - Clean City." 

The inevitable direction of the era

Opening the forum, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Le Cong Thanh emphasized that as the globe faces climate change, environmental pollution, and resource depletion, choosing a path of green development and shifting to clean energy is not merely an inevitable trend but a shared responsibility for every nation. The Deputy Minister highlighted Viet Nam's strong commitment to climate change response and energy transition through key policies, such as the 2020 Law on Environmental Protection and the National Strategy on Climate Change, which aims for net-zero emissions by 2050. This framework provides a solid foundation for Viet Nam to develop a green, circular, and low-carbon economy, aiming for a "Green, Clean, and Livable Viet Nam."

Deputy Minister Le Cong Thanh affirmed that developing green energy not only helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and ensure energy security, but also opens a sustainable path for major urban centers, including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hai Phong. The forum's theme, "Green Energy - Clean City," is particularly important as Viet Nam accelerates its energy transition efforts. Experts agree this is not just a technical issue but a strategic orientation linked to the nation's sustainable development model.

Green energy development is crucial for Viet Nam to achieve its Net Zero goal, ensure energy security, and improve the quality of life for urban residents. Utilizing clean energy and environmentally friendly fuels, along with developing green transportation and green buildings, is becoming an essential trend. To realize the "clean city" objective in major urban areas, three critical pillars are: controlling transportation emissions, developing renewable energy infrastructure, and integrating environmental standards into urban planning.

Spreading the spirit of action for a green future

VAN News Editor-in-Chief, Nguyen Ngoc Thach, stated that the forum was organized to create a space for exchange, sharing, and connection among all stakeholders, from management agencies and scientists to businesses and the community, to join forces in building green, clean, and smart cities that are better adapted to the challenges of climate change.

Mr. Nguyen Ngoc Thach added that when every city, business, and citizen supports green energy, the "Clean City" concept will move beyond a slogan and become a tangible reality. He stressed that the forum's message is a call to action, ensuring that every step, policy, and investment targets the common goal of creating a green future for Viet Nam.

During the forum, delegates held discussions on several practical topics, including developing a clean energy ecosystem focused on solar, wind, biomass, and waste-to-energy; encouraging the use of standard fuels while gradually reducing fossil fuels; applying green technology in transportation, construction, and urban management; and proposing mechanisms and policies to promote the green energy transition and support business investment in technological innovation.

Experts also emphasized the vital connection among the State, businesses, scientists, and the media, identifying them as the four pillars of the green energy transition. Furthermore, the public must be encouraged to participate through models of sustainable consumption, energy saving, and reducing daily emissions.

The "Green Energy - Clean City" Forum marks the launch of a series of concrete actions to achieve sustainable development, green growth, and net-zero emissions by 2050. Delegates collectively committed to specific actions. The State will focus on finalizing policies, emission standards, and clean energy investment incentives. Businesses will enhance technological innovation, energy efficiency, and emission reduction in production. Organizations and associations will bridge policy, businesses, and the community by boosting communication and raising social awareness to inspire action for a green future.