Lux Travel DMC Commits to Sustainable Tourism Development, aiming for Zero Plastic Waste by 2025
The Vietnam Tourism Association (VITA) organized the “Action Plan to Reduce Plastic Waste in the Tourism Industry” workshop in Hanoi. The event saw the participation of many key representatives from government agencies, international organizations, tourism businesses, and media outlets.
Deputy Director General of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, Hà Văn Siêu, delivered a speech at the workshop
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Reducing Plastic Waste in Tourism
The conference focused on introducing and discussing the draft Action Plan to reduce plastic waste in the tourism industry. Secretary-General Vu Quoc Tri emphasized, “We aim to build and operate a digital platform on plastic waste, through annual Vietnam International Tourism Fairs (VITM) to disseminate knowledge on reducing plastic waste.”
Specific goals of the plan to reduce plastic waste include
2025: 100% of member units raise awareness about the harm of plastic waste; 50% of members do not use non-biodegradable plastic bags and single-use plastic products; 100% of units issue guidelines to reduce plastic waste.
2030: 100% of members do not use non-biodegradable plastic bags and single-use plastic products.
The action plan for “Zero Plastic Waste” includes six keys
Raising awareness about reducing plastic waste.
Participating in policy development, dissemination, and monitoring of plastic waste reduction in tourism.
Developing and promoting green tourism products, free from plastic waste.
Promoting tourism activities linked to plastic waste reduction.
Training and educating staff on plastic waste reduction.
Mobilizing international resources to promote plastic waste reduction.
Addressing Environmental Challenges
VITA Chairman, Mr. Vu The Binh, emphasized that plastic waste is a significant challenge not only in Vietnam but globally. The tourism industry is a major source of plastic waste and is severely affected by this pollution. He stated, “Reducing plastic waste pollution is expected to be one of the key solutions to achieve meaningful results for sustainable development goals.”
According to Mr. Binh, the roadmap for reducing plastic waste has been institutionalized in the Environmental Protection Law 2020 and Decree 08/2022/ND-CP. However, the legal framework for managing plastic waste is still incomplete, and tourism policies have not yet clearly addressed plastic waste management. There are no criteria for assessing plastic waste reduction in business establishments, accommodation services, and other tourism services.
VITA Chairman, Mr. Vu The Binh, presented about the solutions for reducing plastic waste in Vietnam Tourism
Plan and Commitment
After the workshop, VITA will finalize and issue this plan in August 2024 for nationwide implementation. Mr. Ha Van Sieu, Deputy Director of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, highly appreciated the widespread impact of the “Reducing Plastic Waste in Vietnam’s Tourism Industry” project and hopes for continued UNDP funding for subsequent phases. The Vietnam National Administration of Tourism will accompany VITA in implementing the plan in practice, aiming to apply the criteria for recognizing plastic-free tourism businesses.
The project has achieved positive results, creating several guiding tools such as the criteria for recognizing plastic-free tourism businesses and the plastic waste management application. Two pilot localities, Ninh Binh and Quang Nam, have seen significant effectiveness. Booking.com has also contacted the project to use these criteria for evaluating services on its platform.
Specific Actions and Recommendations
Mr. Vu The Binh hopes that after the “Reducing Plastic Waste in Vietnam’s Tourism Industry” project concludes, the strong message about plastic-free tourism will be widely disseminated, calling for the efforts and cooperation of the public, businesses, communities, and tourists towards sustainable development goals.
The action plan for reducing plastic waste in the tourism industry developed by VITA will serve as a foundation for members to implement, contributing to tourism development associated with green growth, circular economy, and digital transformation.
Lux Travel DMC’s Commitment to Reducing Plastic Waste
As an industry leader and active member of the Vietnam Tourism Association (VITA), Lux Travel DMC has set ambitious goals to eliminate plastic waste from our operations by 2025. Our pioneering stance in declaring zero plastic waste and our membership in the Vietnam Green Tourism Association underscore our dedication to sustainable tourism in Vietnam.
Lux Travel discussed about solutions to reduce plastic waste at office and tourism services
Key Actions and Initiatives from Lux Travel DMC for Zero Plastic Waste
Elimination of Non-Biodegradable Plastics:
We have made it a priority to phase out all non-biodegradable plastic bags and single-use plastic products across all our business activities. This includes eliminating plastic water bottles, straws, and packaging materials, ensuring that every aspect of our operations is aligned with our zero-plastic waste mission.
Awareness and Education:
Recognizing that change begins from within, we actively engage our employees and customers in reducing plastic waste. Through workshops, training sessions, and informational campaigns, we empower our team and clients to make conscious choices that contribute to a greener planet. We also provide reusable alternatives and encourage their use in both professional and personal contexts.
Development of Green Tourism Products:
We are committed to creating and promoting green tourism products that are entirely free from plastic waste. These eco-friendly options include tours that utilize sustainable materials, accommodations that follow plastic-free practices, and partnerships with local vendors who share our environmental values.
Cycling around the ancient town of Hoi An
Global Collaboration:
Lux Travel DMC collaborates with international organizations, environmental NGOs, and industry partners to promote and implement plastic waste reduction strategies. By aligning our efforts with global best practices, we contribute to broader initiatives aimed at curbing plastic pollution and fostering a sustainable future.
Community and Industry Leadership:
As part of LuxGroup, we are committed to ongoing collaboration with VITA and other relevant organizations to champion sustainable tourism development in Vietnam. We believe that by leading by example, we can inspire other businesses to adopt similar practices, collectively advancing towards a zero-plastic waste tourism industry in Vietnam.
Our Vision for a Plastic-Free Future for zero plastic waste
At Lux Travel DMC, we envision a future where tourism enhances rather than harms the natural environment. By eliminating plastic waste, we aim to protect the pristine landscapes, waterways, and communities that make Vietnam a unique and cherished destination. Our journey towards zero plastic waste is not just a company policy but a vital part of our identity, reflecting our deep respect for nature and our unwavering commitment to sustainability.
In general, reducing plastic waste in the tourism industry is an urgent and necessary step to protect the environment and promote sustainable development. The commitment and efforts of organizations, businesses, and the community are crucial to achieving this goal. With support from international organizations and close cooperation among stakeholders, Vietnam is expected to soon become a green tourism destination, free from plastic waste.
About Lux Travel DMC
Lux Travel DMC is the first luxury tour operator and DMC in Vietnam, expanding to Asia for both inbound and outbound tourism, and is noted for its commitment to sustainable development and ESG practices (environmental, social, and governance). In 2023, LuxGroup met 150 criteria to become a sustainable partner of Travelife Europe and is striving to achieve 250 criteria for Travelife Certified status this year. Lux Travel DMC is one of the first organizations in Vietnam committed to zero plastic waste, aiming for “net zero” by 2030. Since 2005, Lux Travel DMC has won numerous national and international awards for sustainability and excellence in tourism.
