Narrowing the policy-practice gap in clean technology development.

The project aims to promote the commercialization of clean technologies, increase connectivity within the innovation ecosystem, and support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in participating in a low-carbon circular economy.

Technological innovation geared towards a low-carbon economy .

On the afternoon of December 17th, the project "Promoting a Low-Carbon Circular Economy through Clean Technology Innovation Towards Sustainable Development in Vietnam" was officially launched, marking the first implementation step after a preparation phase, with the participation of management agencies, international organizations, experts, and the business community.

The launch event for the project "Promoting a low-carbon circular economy through clean technology innovation towards sustainable development in Vietnam" was held on the afternoon of December 17th. Photo: Linh Linh.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Nguyen Dinh Tho, Deputy Director of the Institute for Agricultural and Environmental Policy and Strategy (ISPAE, Ministry of Agriculture and Environment ), said that Vietnam is entering a crucial transitional phase, as the need for economic development linked to environmental protection, emission reduction, and efficient resource use is becoming increasingly urgent. Vietnam's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, made at COP26, places specific demands on innovation, the application of clean technologies, the transformation of production models towards a circular economy, and the enhancement of business capacity, especially small and medium-sized enterprises and startups.

According to Mr. Tho, in recent years, the State has issued many important guidelines and policies to promote innovation, energy transition, and circular economy development. However, from practical research and policy consultations, the gap between the orientation and the implementation and application of clean technology solutions in practice remains quite large. Many businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises and startups, still face difficulties in accessing technology, resources, experts, and appropriate support models.

Stemming from this context, the project "Promoting a Low-Carbon Circular Economy through Clean Technology Innovation Towards Sustainable Development in Vietnam" was developed with the support of the Global Environment Fund (GEF) in the form of non-refundable ODA, through the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment is the managing agency, and the Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Strategy and Policy is the implementing agency.

Mr. Nguyen Dinh Tho, Deputy Director of the Institute for Agricultural and Environmental Strategy and Policy (ISPAE, Ministry of Agriculture and Environment). Photo: Dieu Linh.

The project will be implemented over 48 months, from 2025 to 2028, with a nationwide scope; some key activities are expected to be carried out in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang.

Focus on policy development and business support.

Introducing the project overview, Ms. Hoang Hong Hanh, representative of the Institute for Agricultural and Environmental Strategy and Policy, stated that the overall objective of the project is to promote the development of innovative clean technology solutions serving the circular and low-carbon economy, towards sustainable and inclusive development, while integrating content on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and waste management.

Based on that, the project focuses on three specific target groups. Firstly, strengthening the policy framework and connectivity within the clean technology innovation ecosystem at the national level. Secondly, supporting startups and small and medium-sized enterprises by promoting the commercialization of clean technology innovation solutions. Thirdly, enhancing management, knowledge sharing, and experience exchange within the clean technology innovation ecosystem.

The project is structured into components aligned with these objectives. Component 1 focuses on strengthening policies and connecting the clean technology innovation ecosystem, including policy recommendations, promoting linkages among stakeholders in the innovation and startup ecosystem; and integrating the promotion of gender equality, enhancing the role and status of women in the clean technology innovation ecosystem in Vietnam.

Ms. Le Thi Thanh Thao, representative of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) office. Photo: Dieu Linh.

Component 2 focuses on supporting businesses by promoting the commercialization of clean technology solutions, targeting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups. This sector accounts for approximately 98% of all businesses, contributes about 45% of GDP, and creates jobs for about 60% of the workforce, yet faces many barriers in accessing technology, capital, and markets.

Component 3 focuses on knowledge management and strengthening connections, including activities such as sharing and disseminating lessons learned; connecting stakeholders; monitoring, supervising, and evaluating the project, ensuring that the results achieved in Vietnam are consistent with similar programs being implemented within UNIDO's global network.

Ms. Le Thi Thanh Thao, UNIDO's representative in Vietnam, affirmed that supporting member countries in developing inclusive and sustainable industries is a consistent mission of the organization. According to UNIDO's approach, industry not only generates growth but also contributes to job creation, enhances the capacity and competitiveness of domestic businesses, reduces emissions, uses resources efficiently, and ensures that no one is left behind.

According to Ms. Thao, the project in Vietnam is part of UNIDO's global program on clean technology innovation, aimed at supporting startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in developing innovative solutions to mitigate the impacts of climate change through business acceleration, investment networking, and ecosystem capacity building. Priority areas of the project include energy, waste, materials, and agriculture, with a focus on supporting women, youth, and marginalized groups.

Source: https://nongnghiepmoitruong.vn/thu-hep-khoang-cach-chinh-sach--thuc-tien-trong-phat-trien-cong-nghe-sach-d789960.html