UNICEF Viet Nam: Listen to children and act for clean air

Speaking at the launch ceremony marking World Meteorological Day, World Water Day, Earth Hour 2026, and the kickoff of the program “Children and Youth in Action for Clean Air and a Sustainable Future” on the morning of March 21, Silvia Danailov, UNICEF Representative in Viet Nam, emphasized that all environmental protection efforts ultimately serve children and their future.

According to Danailov, issues related to water, climate, and the environment are not only concerns of the present but also responsibilities toward future generations. She stressed that protecting the environment means safeguarding the future of every child.

Amid the joint commemoration of World Water Day, World Meteorological Day, and Earth Hour, the UNICEF Representative in Viet Nam noted that this is not only a time to reflect on figures and challenges, but more importantly, a moment to commit to action.

Today’s event marks a significant milestone: the launch of the program “Children and Youth in Action for Clean Air and a Sustainable Future.” Clean air, safe water, and a healthy environment are essential for every child’s health, learning, and development.

However, in Viet Nam, children are increasingly exposed to air pollution and climate-related hazards. According to UNICEF’s Children’s Climate Risk Index, 99.5% of children, approximately 26.2 million, are affected by multiple climate and environmental shocks. These risks are already affecting their health, education, and daily lives.

Danailov stressed that listening to children is necessary, but acting on their concerns is essential.

“That is why we need to act now,” she urged.

She emphasized that children and young people are not merely beneficiaries but also agents of change.

In practice, many young people in Viet Nam have proactively raised community awareness, proposed solutions, and participated in environmental protection activities. The newly launched program will provide space for them to share ideas and contribute to initiatives within their schools and communities.

“UNICEF is proud to partner with the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment to launch the program ‘Children and Youth in Action for Clean Air and a Sustainable Future,’ where children can confidently share ideas and contribute solutions in their schools and communities,” Ms Danailov reiterated.

However, children and young people cannot and should not stand alone in this effort. It is a shared responsibility, particularly for policymakers, to listen to children’s voices and translate them into stronger policies on clean air, environmental management, and climate-resilient services such as education, water, and sanitation.

“If we act together, with clear commitment and shared responsibility, we can restore clean air and build a green, sustainable future for every child in Viet Nam,” Danailov said.

However, children and young people cannot and should not stand alone in this effort. It is a shared responsibility, particularly for policymakers, to listen to children’s voices and translate them into stronger policies on clean air, environmental management, and climate-resilient services such as education, water, and sanitation.

“If we act together, with clear commitment and shared responsibility, we can restore clean air and build a green, sustainable future for every child in Viet Nam,” Danailov said. 

The "Children and Youth in Action for Clean Air and a Sustainable Future" initiative, co-organized by UNICEF Viet Nam and the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, aims to empower young people to tackle air pollution and climate change through education, advocacy, and local projects. These programs train youth ambassadors to monitor air quality, promote green technology, and advocate for policy changes, reaching thousands to protect environmental rights.