Hanoi determined to create a sustainable green capital

The capital is vigorously implementing comprehensive environmental protection solutions, from strategic policies to breakthrough technology projects, towards the goal of becoming a green, clean, modern and sustainable city. This not only improves the quality of life but also affirms Hanoi's pioneering position in the region and the world.

Prioritize strategy and long-term vision for the environment

Environmental protection and pollution treatment is one of the five key areas identified by the Hanoi Party Committee for the 2025-2030 term. This orientation is clearly shown in the Draft Political Report of the 17th City Party Committee Executive Committee submitted to the 18th Congress of the Hanoi Party Committee.

Specifically, the City will research and develop a Program or Project for overall environmental protection and green development strategy with a vision of at least 15-20 years, while reviewing and perfecting the legal framework and related mechanisms and policies.

Hanoi is synchronously implementing many plans to improve the environment of To Lich River. (Photo: TL)

According to Mr. Nguyen Minh Tan, Deputy Director of the Hanoi Department of Agriculture and Environment, this is an urgent orientation, reflecting the city's long-term vision. Hanoi is currently facing many challenges such as air pollution, solid waste overload, declining water resources and rapid urbanization pressure.

A 15-20 year long-term strategy will help Hanoi orient its development towards a green economic model, a circular economy, in line with global trends and national commitments to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

According to Ms. Le Thanh Thuy, Deputy Head of the Environmental Management Department (Hanoi Department of Agriculture and Environment), the City Party Committee's determination of the environment as a strategic priority is a correct and timely policy, demonstrating a clear shift in management thinking, from "solving issues" to "proactive prevention and long-term investment".

Breakthroughs in environmental protection and challenges ahead

To realize the strategic goal, Hanoi has been synchronously implementing many important activities. Notably, modern waste-to-energy projects. The Soc Son Waste-to-Energy Plant, the largest in Southeast Asia, processes 4,000–5,000 tons of waste per day and generates 90MW of electricity. The Seraphin Waste-to-Energy Plant in Xuan Son, with a capacity to process 2,250 tons of waste per day, is expected to officially operate in October 2024.

“This project not only helps reduce pollution from landfills but also provides clean energy, contributing to the sustainable development strategy,” emphasized a representative of Seraphin Company. These projects not only reduce pollution but also promote a circular economic model by utilizing ash as a construction material.

Workers dredge mud to clean To Lich River. (Photo: TL)

Along with that, the waste sorting program implemented in localities such as Hoan Kiem has created significant changes. Ms. Nguyen Thi Lan, a resident of Hang Bong ward, shared: “It was a bit difficult at first, but thanks to detailed instructions, my family got used to sorting waste. I find this a practical way to protect the environment.” Waste sorting helps increase recycling efficiency and reduce treatment costs at waste-to-energy plants.

Hanoi also promotes urban greening through a program to plant millions of trees, improve air quality and reduce temperatures. The city has also issued a roadmap to limit fossil fuel vehicles, gradually replacing them with green vehicles and modern public transport, while promoting a policy of exchanging old motorbikes for electric vehicles, exempting fees and supporting the installation of electric charging stations.

However, Hanoi still faces many challenges such as air pollution, especially PM2.5 fine dust, polluted inner-city rivers and large amounts of untreated wastewater. To solve this problem, the city aims to completely treat inner-city air pollution by 2035, form low-emission zones and revive the inner-city river and lake system.

According to Mr. Le Trung Hieu, Deputy Director of Hanoi Department of Finance, the city is implementing the model of “standing side by side, accompanying” businesses, simplifying administrative procedures, publicizing investment information and encouraging environmental businesses to access policy advantages in a fair and transparent manner. With political determination, social consensus and strategic vision, Hanoi is gradually affirming its pioneering position, moving towards a Green - Clean - Smart Capital for the future.

Source: https://thoidai.com.vn/ha-noi-quyet-tam-kien-tao-thu-do-xanh-ben-vung-215968.html