The whole country has less than 10 green tourism projects: Big alarm!

Vietnam's tourism industry has recorded less than 10 certified green buildings out of hundreds of buildings nationwide, showing an alarming gap in the sustainable development process.

According to international data, the tourism industry accounts for about 8-9% of total global greenhouse gas emissions. Meanwhile, transportation and hotel operations are the two largest sources of energy consumption. If sustainable solutions are applied synchronously, the industry can cut emissions by up to 40%.

The seminar "Clean energy in tourism development" on the afternoon of September 5 at the international tourism fair (HCMC) attracted special attention from managers, businesses and experts.

Independent research by Wifi Talents shows that hotels that apply smart energy management systems can save 25% of their consumption, while green buildings reduce operating costs by 20%. However, in Vietnam, less than 10 tourism buildings have achieved green certification out of a total of 630 green buildings nationwide, a number that is still too modest compared to the potential.

Another study found that 74% of young travelers under 30 prioritize sustainability when planning their trips; more than 80% of global travelers want to choose eco-friendly destinations; and 55-66% are willing to pay more for sustainable services.

"That proves that green tourism is no longer a trend but has become a mandatory requirement. Any business that goes first will have a clear competitive advantage," Ms. Nguyen Thi Thu Ha, Editor-in-Chief of Ho Chi Minh City Tourism Magazine emphasized at the seminar.

Representing the business sector, Mr. Dang Bao Trung, General Director of Focus Travel Group - a unit specializing in luxury cruise and river tourism, affirmed that green energy is becoming a fundamental solution for developing sustainable tourism products.

"Today, tourists, especially international tourists, are willing to pay more to experience environmentally responsible services, from using clean energy, reducing plastic waste, to nature conservation activities and supporting local communities," said Mr. Trung.

Mr. Bao Trung hopes to develop a tourist electric train to carry tourists, like green vehicles such as electric cars today.

However, by the end of 2024, Vietnam will record nearly 9 GW of solar power and 5 GW of wind power, with traditional power still accounting for a large proportion.

Lang Nho Tourist Area ( Khanh Hoa ), with a space of more than 160 hectares, chooses the green path by firmly operating the entire area with renewable energy.

PHOTO: LE NAM

In the context of Vietnam being the 5th country globally in terms of the level of impact of climate change, applying clean energy in tourism is no longer an option, but a vital requirement.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/ca-nuoc-chua-toi-10-cong-trinh-du-lich-xanh-bao-dong-lon-1852509051603116.htm