Digital transformation needs to be viewed from the perspective of innovation.

On September 30th, the forum "Digital Transformation and Green Transformation for Sustainable Development" took place within the framework of the Techconnect and Innovation Vietnam 2023 event. The program was jointly organized by the Ministry of Science and Technology (MST) and the People's Committee of Quang Ninh province.

The event was held against the backdrop of Vietnam's economy rapidly shifting towards a green economy, knowledge-based economy, low-carbon circular economy, etc., with the digital economy as the focus.

The transition from information technology (computerization) to digital technology and Vietnam's race to compete with other countries in digital transformation presents many challenges as well as great opportunities. These include establishing databases, analyzing and utilizing data, ensuring security and safety, as well as the need for high-quality human resources, transformation support systems, and, more importantly, the suitability of solutions for each type of business.

Digital transformation and green transformation are inevitable trends in the world.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Bui The Duy assessed that digital transformation and green transformation are inevitable trends in the world. This trend is not only an opportunity but also a major challenge for the Vietnamese business community.

The Party and State of Vietnam consider the development of science and technology and innovation as a top national priority. In particular, the Government has issued Decision No. 569/QD-TTg dated May 11, 2022, of the Prime Minister promulgating the Strategy for the Development of Science and Technology and Innovation until 2030.

Deputy Minister Bui The Duy stated that digital transformation should be viewed from the perspective of innovation. Accordingly, digital transformation in businesses is not merely about applying information technology, but the prerequisite is to change internal processes and work procedures, aiming to improve efficiency and create new products and services.

Similarly, green transformation is not just about developing and applying environmentally friendly technologies, but also about changing production and business processes to improve operational efficiency, reduce emissions, and move towards a green and circular economy.

"In reality, we can see many businesses that are at the height of success, but if they don't innovate, they could be eliminated. Therefore, businesses need to change their processes and products, not just buy software and technology," Deputy Minister Bui The Duy said.

Propose that relevant authorities develop policies.

According to Professor Nguyen Van Phuoc, Chairman of the Union of Science and Technology Associations of Ho Chi Minh City, digital transformation and green transformation are an optimal combination because the world is facing many environmental and climate change issues.

"Green transition is a millennium goal for the whole world, focusing on how to minimize environmental impact," Professor Nguyen Van Phuoc affirmed.

Accordingly, green transformation activities include: energy transition, green industrial transformation, sustainable agriculture, and circular economy.

Regarding energy transition, according to Professor Nguyen Van Phuoc, Vietnam needs three stages. First, increasing energy efficiency; second, utilizing renewable energy; and third, bioenergy. Currently, the proportion of electricity production from renewable energy in Vietnam has increased over the years 2019-2023, but this is not stable.

Regarding green industrial transformation, according to the plan, Vietnam has approximately 563 industrial parks in 61 provinces and cities. To date, 397 industrial parks have been established, of which only about 7 are eco-industrial parks. However, these 7 parks are not operating effectively, have not attracted foreign investment, and are experiencing slow growth...

Meanwhile, the green industrial transformation can help the industry plan in a synchronized and modern direction, attract FDI; participate in global production value chains, create jobs, develop urban areas; promote inter-industry and inter-regional linkages; expand diplomatic relations, etc.

The process of developing green industrial transformation includes: pollution control, cleaner production, ecological efficiency, lifecycle thinking, closed-loop production, and eco-industry. Regarding sustainable agriculture, Vietnam is showing significant improvement but still faces many risks and a lack of sustainability due to market fluctuations, instability in product quality, and the inability to control pesticide use.

Professor Nguyen Van Phuoc also noted that the circular economy has been implemented by many businesses. These businesses have developed various production strategies, utilizing everything from natural energy sources to reusing waste. "Businesses are the pioneering group in the energy transition process, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and playing a key role in successfully implementing the commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2050," said Professor Nguyen Van Phuoc.

At the same time, it is proposed that relevant authorities develop policies and support mechanisms to encourage businesses in each sector to accelerate the transformation process and achieve the nation's overall goals.

At the event, domestic and international delegates shared lessons learned in green transformation towards sustainable development. Representatives from innovative businesses such as Rang Dong, VNPT, 1Office, Base, SIEMENS Vietnam, etc., also shared comprehensive digital transformation solutions for businesses.

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