In the context of increasing globalization and the growing impacts of climate change, Hai Phong City has identified international integration and cooperation as one of the key pillars for achieving green growth and sustainable development. In recent years, with high effort and determination, the city has proactively worked with various localities and international organizations to implement practical programs and projects that contribute to environmental protection, emissions reduction, and improved quality of life for its residents.
One notable initiative is the cooperation with the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES) of Japan to develop a net-zero emissions scenario for Hai Phong by 2050. Since 2022, IGES, in collaboration with relevant city agencies, has been researching this scenario to support Vietnam's commitments made at COP26. Seven key sectors targeted for emissions reduction include industry, commerce, transportation, households, agriculture-forestry, waste, and land use. After multiple rounds of discussions and feedback, the draft scenario has been adjusted to aim for Hai Phong to reduce over 99% of total greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 through seven groups of actions and 34 specific projects. However, due to staffing difficulties at Japan's Ministry of the Environment, finalizing the scenario in 2024 faces challenges, requiring the city to proactively seek continued support.
In parallel, Hai Phong has actively implemented various international cooperation projects. Notably, the city collaborated with Kitakyushu (Japan) on a project to treat high-BOD wastewater at Ngoc Hai Fishing Port (Do Son District). After equipment handover and project completion in February 2023, the parties continued to coordinate inspections and maintain the system to ensure effective wastewater treatment.
Another project is rural waste management in Vinh Bao District, supported by JICA’s funding, engaging local women’s unions and communities. The project aims to change habits, encouraging sorting, recycling, and reuse of organic waste at households and production facilities.
Hai Phong also works with Shiga Prefecture to implement an environmental management model inspired by Lake Biwa’s experience to enhance management of the Cat Ba Archipelago’s marine areas. New proposals under consideration include small-scale wastewater treatment installations, electric garbage collection boats, biochar production from sludge and agricultural waste, and expanded use of solar and clean industrial steam energy.
Additionally, the city cooperates with Kagawa Prefecture (Japan) and JICA on a marine litter reduction project on Cat Ba Island, engaging the community in marine environmental protection, aiming to build a “clean sea” brand for local tourism.
Hai Phong has also participated in various international forums and conferences on green growth and carbon-free societies, such as the Carbon-Free City Forum, the Low-Carbon City Forum, and intercity cooperation workshops in Tokyo, thereby enhancing its position and expanding its international cooperation network.
Hai Phong’s green growth international integration and cooperation activities have yielded positive outcomes. The city not only acquires and applies advanced technologies and techniques for emissions reduction and environmental protection, but also gradually forms sustainable management models. In particular, community involvement in waste management projects has raised awareness and changed behavior, especially in rural areas.
With strong determination, the support of international partners, and the active participation of the political system, Hai Phong will continue to be a leading locality in implementing green growth and sustainable development goals, contributing to Vietnam’s international commitments and building the image of a modern, green, civilized, and livable port city.