Unilever's journey: From small seeds to one million trees

From green seeds to action for a greener Vietnam

On this journey, Nature Regeneration & Restoration has remained a key pillar of Unilever's sustainable development strategy, reflecting its long-term commitment to ecosystem conservation, climate change mitigation, and the creation of healthier living environments for communities. This commitment is realized by concrete initiatives such as "Action for a Green Vietnam," where each tree planted not only greens the country but also sows seeds of hope and awareness of environmental responsibility for future generations.

Launched in 2021 by Unilever Vietnam and its brand OMO, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (formerly the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment), the "Action for a Green Vietnam" initiative aims to plant one million trees by 2025. The program focuses on critical areas such as protected forests, national parks, schools, and urban areas, where trees not only protect the environment but also enhance the quality of life for local residents. This is one of Unilever's key initiatives in support of the Government's project "Planting One Billion Trees in the 2021–2025 Period," launched by the Prime Minister.

On September 13, 2025, at the Binh Chau–Phuoc Buu Nature Reserve (Ho Chi Minh City), the program continued its journey of greening the nation with a meaningful tree-planting event. In just one morning, 900 Peltophorum pterocarpum trees were newly planted, greening 3 hectares of forest land. Each tree planted represents a practical action for a greener, more prosperous Vietnam, especially on the 80^th anniversary of Vietnam's National Day and 30 years of Unilever's presence in the S-shaped country.

"The joint efforts of businesses like Unilever and local communities not only help protect green forests but also spread awareness of environmental protection, creating sustainable value for society," affirmed Mr. Dinh Hai Duong at the Ho Chi Minh City Protection Forest Management Board (formerly part of Ba Ria–Vung Tau province).

Spreading the green living spirit from families to communities

The distinction of "Action for a Green Vietnam" lies not merely in the number of trees planted, but in the way the program spreads the spirit of green living to each individual and community. Against alarming figures of deforestation, Unilever and its brand OMO wish to inspire and encourage parents and children to plant trees at home, at school, and for Vietnam’s forests.

Ms. Nguyen Lan Khue, representative of OMO Vietnam, emphasized that the program's impact goes beyond simply planting more trees; it plants seeds of environmental protection awareness in the younger generation. "For OMO, this journey begins with families, where parents and children take small actions together; continues at schools, where children are educated about green living responsibilities; and expands to society, with the participation of communities, artists, organizations, and governments," Ms. Khue shared.

Over five years of implementing "Action for a Green Vietnam," OMO accompanied and coordinated with the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment to bring the program to families and schools, turning tree planting into an inspiring activity. Campaigns with the participation of celebrities have encouraged families, especially children, to take green actions right from their homes. From these small acts, the movement has spread widely, creating a powerful ripple effect across society.

Beyond its environmental value, the program also delivers practical economic and social benefits. In many protected forests and national forests, tree planting provides local residents with sustainable livelihoods while safeguarding natural resources. Expanding forest cover helps prevent soil erosion, protect water sources, and improve air quality while playing a critical role in absorbing CO₂ gas, thereby mitigating the impacts of climate change.

Looking back on its journey, from new green patches in the forests to the joyful smiles of children planting trees at school, the "Action for a Green Vietnam" program has demonstrated the power of collective action. When businesses, the Government, social organizations, and individuals join hands, a shared "green commitment" is forged, bringing long-term value to both present and future generations.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary, Unilever Vietnam continues to reaffirm its pledge of "Because Vietnam is Home." Through "Action for a Green Vietnam," this spirit is realized in greened forests, inspired families, and a young generation nurtured with a sense of environmental responsibility.