How Truong Cong Giai students embrace green living

Truong Cong Giai Junior Secondary School (Cau Giay Ward, Hanoi) is one of five junior secondary schools awarded Third Prize at the ASEAN Eco-School Award Vietnam 2025.

On the sidelines of the Award Ceremony held on the morning of January 31 in Hanoi, Ms. Duong Thi Minh Tham, Vice Principal of Truong Cong Giai Junior Secondary School, shared insights into the positive changes, innovative models, and messages for schools on their journey toward greener campuses.

'What has been the most noticeable change the school has observed among students after implementing eco-friendly activities?'

In my view, the most noticeable change is the shift in awareness and habits among students, as well as staff and teachers, in reducing waste and protecting environmental cleanliness and the overall campus landscape.

As eco-models are implemented, students no longer see these activities as mere campaigns. Instead, they gradually develop an environmental protection mindset as an integral part of school life. From small actions such as limiting the use of single-use plastics and disposing of waste properly, to proactively participating in green activities, students have shown very positive changes.

'For junior secondary school students, how does the school encourage them to take initiative in environmental protection rather than simply following instructions?'

I believe the most important thing for this age group is to give students a sense of ownership.

At our school, students participate in the Green Club, where they can propose ideas, directly carry them out, and evaluate the results themselves. When students are empowered in this way, they clearly recognize the impact, effectiveness, and benefits that these activities bring.

The hands-on experiences help students gradually internalize environmental thinking, naturally forming a sustainable awareness of protecting the environment.

'During the process of building a “green school,” what has been the biggest challenge for the school, and how did you overcome it?'

In my view, the biggest challenge has been changing the initial mindset of teachers, students, and even parents regarding plastic waste.

Plastic is a very common material in daily life, so getting all educational stakeholders to agree on reducing plastic waste is not easy.

The first solution the school implemented was to strengthen communication and awareness-raising. We organized numerous media and outreach activities, inviting plastic experts to give talks so that everyone clearly understands the serious impact of plastic waste on the environment and human health.

For students, they gradually learn through club activities while environmental education is integrated into lessons, thematic assemblies, and year-round school campaigns. When awareness changes, behavior follows.

'Could you share some of the school’s unique or exemplary models and what makes them stand out among many initiatives from other schools and localities?'

I think two main factors create the distinction. First is practicality and the coordinated participation of the entire school: from the school board and teachers setting an example, to students as the central actors, with parents joining in.

Second is the integration of digital technology into environmental education. We incorporate hands-on activities on waste reduction into lessons and use a digital Green Notebook so that all educational stakeholders can access it and contribute to reducing plastic waste.

As for exemplary models, two notable initiatives are: using cornstarch and gelatin to produce biodegradable plastics, and applying 3D printing with GLA bioplastic to create educational tools and 3D simulations of eco-schools. Additionally, the “Exchange Plastic Waste for Green Plants” program excites students while engaging them in reducing waste.

'Drawing from her school’s practical experience and as one of five junior secondary schools honored with a Third Prize at the ASEAN Eco-School Award Vietnam 2025, what message would she like to share with schools that are just beginning their journey to reduce plastic waste?'

The message we would like to send to schools is this: start with small, everyday actions, but carry them out with persistence and long-term commitment.

Many people think that reducing plastic waste is a very big and difficult task. However, through our school’s journey, I firmly believe it is entirely achievable if each school begins with small steps and sustains them over time. Persistence will certainly lead to success.

Thank you very much.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment has assigned VAN News, in coordination with the International Cooperation Department and the Green Future Fund, to organize the ASEAN Eco-School Award Vietnam 2025 - Plastic Waste Free Schools.

For more information about the Award, readers can visit the online newspaper nongnghiepmoitruong.vn and the Award’s website ecschool.vn.