An Giang boasts numerous historical and cultural relics, making it an attractive destination for pilgrims, tourists, explorers, beachgoers, and photographers. According to the Department of Tourism , in the first six months of 2026, the province is estimated to have welcomed 16,646,278 visitors, an increase of 17.1% compared to the same period in 2025, reaching 66.6% of the annual plan; of which, an estimated 1,340,450 international visitors are expected, an increase of 47.5% compared to the same period, reaching 63.2% of the annual plan. Total tourism revenue is estimated at 39,283 billion VND, an increase of 34.4% compared to the same period, reaching 56.1% of the annual plan. The target for 2026 is to welcome an estimated 27,905,388 visitors, with total tourism revenue estimated at 73,983 billion VND.
However, some tourists still lack environmental awareness and carelessly litter after visiting. Common types of trash such as tissues, candy wrappers, plastic bottles and cups, nylon bags, food containers, beer and soft drink cans... are scattered under trees, on benches, on the roads, and on the beaches... causing environmental pollution and affecting the tourist landscape. Mr. Nguyen Van Duoc, a resident of Kien Hai Special Economic Zone, shared: "Many tourists bring food and drinks to the tourist spot but leave trash everywhere when they leave. If everyone carelessly litters, it won't be long before this place becomes a garbage dump."
Young volunteers clean up trash at tourist spots. Photo: Lang Thang An Giang Fanpage. Photo: THANH THANH
Along the hiking trails leading up the peaks of Thien Cam Son mountain in Nui Cam commune, straws, plastic bags, and even used face masks are tied by tourists to tree branches, blades of grass, fences, and ropes strung along the path. This is how some pilgrims "leave behind illnesses" and bad luck on the mountain. Therefore, residents living around these areas must regularly clean up to protect the trees, the landscape, and most importantly, the environment.
It's worth noting that many tourist areas and attractions have numerous trash cans and signs saying "No littering," "Say no to littering," and "Do not litter in public places," but these have no effect. Trash cans are readily available, but many people ignore them. Empty water bottles are left lying around, and trash remains next to trees, under benches, or near trash cans. It's clear that the increasing number of tourists will generate a growing amount of plastic waste, while the long decomposition time puts immense pressure on the environment and exceeds its self-regeneration capacity. Furthermore, if each tourist lacks environmental awareness, this poses a significant threat to attractive tourist destinations in the province. Ms. Le Thi Minh Nguyet, a tourist from Ho Chi Minh City, shared: "If tourists litter indiscriminately while having fun, later visitors will probably be taking pictures with trash instead of beautiful scenery. I hope every tourist will be mindful of environmental protection while traveling."
Besides some tourists who lack environmental awareness, many tourists dispose of trash properly at tourist spots or take it with them if there are no trash cans nearby. Ms. Lam Thi My Tien, a resident of Chau Doc ward, shared: “Every tourist should bring extra bags when traveling to dispose of trash after use or after eating at tourist spots, contributing to environmental protection.” Mr. Nguyen Thanh Hoang, a resident of Rach Gia ward, shared: “For waste generated during sightseeing, tourists should clean it up and put it in the designated places to make collection and processing easier.” There are also enthusiastic groups of young people who organize trips to collect trash in order to contribute to protecting a green, clean, and beautiful tourist environment. Nguyen Nhat Linh, a resident of Long Xuyen ward, shared: “On each trip, we plan to combine fun activities with trash collection. Each member brings tools such as bags and gloves to collect trash. I hope our small efforts will help spread awareness to tourists not to litter indiscriminately.”
Protecting the environment is everyone's responsibility. Besides pollution control measures, the collective effort of every local resident and tourist is essential. Everyone needs to raise their awareness of protecting the landscape and maintaining public hygiene through small, practical actions such as not littering and disposing of waste in designated areas.
THANH THANH
Source: https://baoangiang.com.vn/giu-diem-den-xanh-tu-y-thuc-du-khach-a491250.html
