The event brought together nearly 80 delegates, including representatives of state management agencies, experts, scientists, and organizations from Vietnam, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, as well as many Southeast Asian and European countries, and international organizations (UNEP, UNDP, WTO, ...) to discuss the current state of pollution and propose solutions to strengthen environmental protection in the region.

Delegates attending the Forum. Photo by VACNE

In recent years, environmental pollution has been identified as one of the main causes of many diseases, seriously affecting ecosystems, public health, and causing significant economic losses globally. In Vietnam, with the commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, agencies, organizations, and communities are actively implementing various solutions to respond to climate change and control pollution.

Amid the ongoing pressure on the environment from production and development activities, the RPF Forum is organized as an open dialogue space to enhance coordination, share knowledge and practical experience among countries to address pollution, protect health, and promote sustainable development.

At the forum, experts analyzed environmental challenges through pilot projects, clarifying sources of emissions, exposure pathways, and impacts on human health. Based on this, stakeholders proposed priority measures to control air pollution, chemicals, plastic waste, and promote smart waste management.

A key topic presented was the “Environmental Pollution Program in Vietnam (EPP-VN),” reflecting practical lessons from localities. The collaborative approach between scientists and farmers – from small-scale experimental models to wide-scale application – has contributed to forming sustainable farming solutions, providing benefits for health, the environment, and the economy.

The EPP-VN Program and the RPF Forum are funded by UK International Development through the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

Dr. Nguyễn Ngọc Sinh, Chairman of VACNE, delivered the welcoming speech at the forum.
Photo: VACNE

Speaking at the forum, Dr. Nguyễn Ngọc Sinh, Chairman of VACNE, emphasized: Environmental pollution is a global and cross-border issue, requiring the cooperation of many stakeholders. The forum is an opportunity for parties to exchange ideas, clarify the current situation, and determine the roles and responsibilities of each concerned party. Since its establishment in 1988, VACNE has always committed to accompanying domestic and international partners, promoting dialogue that connects science with policy and practical action, contributing to the common efforts of the community in the field of nature and environmental protection.

The activities within the framework of EPP-VN implemented by VACNE and GAHP in recent times have contributed to raising awareness, technology transfer, and building a foundation for subsequent projects towards sustainable agriculture, emission reduction, and climate change adaptation. This model not only proves effective in Vietnam but also spreads to Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, the Philippines, Nepal, and Tanzania.

Ms. Maria Paola Lia, CEO of GAHP, shared: "Pollution is the main cause but preventable, causing many diseases throughout Southeast Asia. The RPF forum focuses on practical, evidence-based solutions that bring clear health benefits, including results proven through programs implemented in Vietnam."

She also emphasized the exemplary project "Assessing the Current Status and Proposing Solutions to Mitigate the Impact of Open Burning and the Use of Pesticides in Agriculture on Climate Change, Human Health, and Biodiversity in Vietnam," thereby supporting farmers in the South, Central Highlands, and North to apply integrated pest management (IPM), utilize agricultural by-products to grow straw mushrooms, raise earthworms, produce organic fertilizer, and animal feed, contributing to increased income and reduced emissions.

According to Ms. Toks Akinseye, Defra's representative, the UK Government prioritizes cooperative projects that propose sustainable solutions actively implemented by the local community. The RPF forum in Ho Chi Minh City is an important part of Defra's environmental pollution program, promoting a multilateral approach for the common benefit of countries and communities.

The results from the RPF Forum are expected to become an important information platform, guiding the regional cooperation roadmap in pollution control, contributing to protecting people's health and promoting sustainable development in Southeast Asia.

 The forum has multiple discussion sessions on different topics. Photo VACNE