Report on the Growth of Green Products and Sustainable Development Initiatives in Vietnam

Introduction

According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the period from 2021 to 2024 has witnessed an average annual growth rate exceeding 15% in green product lines. The integration of green technologies and renewable energy in production and investment is no longer optional but essential for sustainable development. This transition aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Market Demand and Consumer Awareness

Nguyen Anh Duc, Chairman of the Association of Vietnam Retailers (AVR), highlighted that demand for green products grew at an average rate of 15% per year between 2021 and 2023. The “Green Consumption” campaign has played a pivotal role in raising public awareness and transforming both consumers and suppliers towards sustainable development and environmental protection, supporting SDG 12 and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

• 72% of consumers surveyed expressed willingness to pay more for environmentally friendly products.
• The campaign has shifted consumer behavior and supplier practices towards sustainability.

The “Green Consumption” Campaign

Launched in 2010, the “Green Consumption” campaign is one of Vietnam’s longest-running environmental communication programs. Over 16 years, it has implemented hundreds of programs involving more than 800 retail points nationwide, promoting Vietnamese agricultural products and supporting SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

Campaign 2025: Focus on Green Branding and Consumer Awareness

The 2025 campaign theme, “Green Brand – Bold Vietnamese Identity,” aims to bridge the gap between green branding and consumer awareness. Key objectives include:

1. Supporting enterprises and suppliers in developing sustainable brand identities.
2. Enhancing green brand communication capacity through initiatives such as:
   • Green Product Recognition Project
   • Empowering Green Consumers
   • Green Schools
   • Green Experience
3. Promoting transparency in businesses’ green transformation journeys, covering raw materials, production technology, environmental standards, and community responsibility.
4. Fostering long-term green consumption habits through combined business transparency and community education.

These efforts contribute directly to SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

Business Participation and Consumer Engagement

Saigon Co.op, a key participant, plans to organize the Son La Plum Festival at over 800 retail points with an expected consumption increase of 20% compared to the previous year. Innovations include:

• Integration of QR codes at retail points enabling consumers to access videos, images, and stories about products’ green journeys, enhancing transparency and consumer knowledge.
• The “Green Experience with Businesses” program, running until June 30, offers customers direct visits to green production models, facilitating practical understanding of sustainable business practices.

These initiatives support SDG 9, SDG 12, and SDG 17 by promoting innovation, responsible consumption, and partnerships between businesses and consumers.

Conclusion

The growth of green products and the comprehensive “Green Consumption” campaign in Vietnam exemplify a strong commitment to sustainable development aligned with multiple Sustainable Development Goals. Through increased consumer awareness, business transformation, and community engagement, Vietnam is advancing towards a greener economy and society.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed in the Article

1. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • The article emphasizes green consumption, sustainable production, and the promotion of environmentally friendly products.
2. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
   • Application of green technologies and renewable energy in production is highlighted as vital for sustainable development.
3. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
   • Focus on green technologies and sustainable business models indicates innovation in industry.
4. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Green transition and environmental protection efforts contribute to climate action.
5. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
   • Collaboration among businesses, consumers, and government campaigns reflects partnerships to achieve sustainability.

2. Specific Targets Under the Identified SDGs

1. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • Target 12.2: Achieve the sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources.
   • Target 12.5: Substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling, and reuse.
   • Target 12.8: Ensure that people everywhere have the relevant information and awareness for sustainable development and lifestyles in harmony with nature.
2. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
   • Target 7.2: Increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.
3. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
   • Target 9.4: Upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies.
4. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.
5. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
   • Target 17.17: Encourage and promote effective public, public-private and civil society partnerships.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article to Measure Progress

1. Growth Rate of Green Product Lines
   • The article states an average growth rate of over 15% per year for green product lines between 2021-2024, which can serve as an indicator for sustainable production and consumption (related to SDG 12).
2. Consumer Willingness to Pay More for Environmentally Friendly Products
   • 72% of consumers surveyed are willing to pay more for green products, indicating increased awareness and demand (related to SDG 12.8).
3. Number of Retail Points Participating in Green Campaigns
   • More than 800 retail points participating in the “Green Consumption” campaign, reflecting the scale of partnership and outreach (related to SDG 17).
4. Volume of Green Product Consumption
   • Example: 250 tons of Son La Plum consumption expected, a 20% increase from last year, showing measurable growth in green product consumption.
5. Use of QR Codes for Transparency
   • Integration of QR codes at retail points to provide transparent information on green product journeys, supporting consumer awareness and informed choices.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: en.nhandan.vn