Ha Noi, April 24–25, 2025 - In the face of increasingly severe air pollution, which directly affects public health and sustainable development, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the World Health Organization (WHO), is organizing the National Conference on Air Quality Control and Improvement in Viet Nam.
The conference brought together over 200 delegates, including leading scientists and experts from Tsinghua University, Peking University (China), the Asian Institute of Technology, as well as representatives from various ministries (Construction, Health, Industry and Trade), key localities such as Ha Noi, Hung Yen, Bac Ninh, Ho Chi Minh City, and major corporations, associations, enterprises, and international organizations.
According to a report from the Department of Environment under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, air pollution in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City has been on the rise recently. The so-called "pollution season" typically spans from October to April, during which the Air Quality Index (AQI) often reaches poor to moderate levels, raising concerns for public health. The rise in pollution correlates with urbanization, industrial development, and increased transportation and construction activities.
Speaking at the conference, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Mr. Le Cong Thanh emphasized: “Air has no administrative borders; protecting air quality is the responsibility of all society. We cannot afford delays—we must act scientifically, decisively, and effectively to safeguard public health and sustainable development.”
Ms. Ramla Khalidi, UNDP Representative in Viet Nam, highlighted: “Tackling air pollution requires a multi-stakeholder, cross-sectoral approach—with effective coordination between central and local governments, and the active participation of key sectors, businesses, academia, media, and community partners. Supporting the government’s leadership, UNDP and WHO are committed to working alongside central and local agencies across Vietnam to enhance governance and data-driven air quality management, address pollution sources, and promote public engagement.”
Dr. Angela Pratt, WHO Representative in Viet Nam, shared: “Viet Nam is in a moment of real opportunity. We have seen exceptionally strong commitment from Viet Nam’s leaders, at the highest levels, to tackle air pollution. Now the challenge is to turn that commitment into policies, regulations and enforcement strategies which will deliver cleaner air. We know that this will not be easy, but the possibility is immense for Viet Nam. Clean air will improve health, save lives and strengthen the economy. WHO could not be more proud or more committed to support this work, alongside UNDP and other partners.”
This conference is a vital forum not only for assessing the current situation and sharing international experiences but also for proposing innovative scientific solutions aligned with trends in digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and practical feasibility—all aimed at reducing pollution and achieving the goal of “Blue Skies – Clean Air”.
The conference focused on key issues related to air pollution control in Viet Nam. Delegates evaluated the current status and causes of pollution, identifying major emission sources such as traffic, construction, industry, and the burning of agricultural by-products. They also analyzed the impacts of weather and climate conditions. The event summarized efforts made by ministries and localities—especially in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City—under government mandates. Additionally, international experts from Tsinghua University, Peking University, and the Asian Institute of Technology shared lessons learned from Beijing's effective pollution control strategies. Finally, the conference identified ongoing challenges, including fragmented emissions data, limited monitoring infrastructure, and the high costs of green transition, and proposed policy, technical, and communication solutions to finalize the National Action Plan for the upcoming phase.
The scientific conference marks a joint effort by Viet Nam to address environmental pollution and fulfill global commitments—moving toward a future of clean air, livable cities, and a sustainable environment for future generations.
For further information, please contact:
UNDP Viet Nam: Ms. Phan Huong Giang, Media & Communications Analyst, Climate Change, Energy, and Environment, Phone: 0948466688. Email: phan.huong.giang@undp.org
WHO Viet Nam: Ms. Loan Tran, Phone: 0915413814, Email: wpvnmmedia@who.int