The forum attracts a large number of delegates, including leaders of ministries, sectors, localities, experts, tourism businesses and the community

Strategic vision for green tourism development

In his speech at the Forum, VISTA Chairman Mr. Vu The Binh emphasized that tourism is an important economic sector, making a great contribution to GDP and creating jobs for people. However, the development of tourism also poses potential risks to the environment. Therefore, "Green Transformation" is an inevitable trend and a strategic goal that Vietnam's tourism industry needs to strive for. We need to focus on developing a sustainable tourism industry that not only brings economic benefits but also preserves and conserves natural and cultural resources.

Green transformation in tourism needs to be implemented synchronously and comprehensively in all areas, from planning, product development, destination management, business operation to tourist behavior. According to experts and delegates, green tourism development solutions need to focus on three solutions.

Firstly, it is necessary to minimize plastic waste. This is the most urgent issue that needs to be addressed. Localities and businesses need to step up propaganda and education to raise awareness of people and tourists; apply scientific and technological solutions to effectively treat plastic waste.

Developing green tourism needs to develop eco-tourism and community-based tourism, which are forms of tourism that have a limited impact on the environment, while also contributing to preserving and promoting the cultural and natural values of the locality.

In particular, it is necessary to apply science and technology to green tourism development to help manage and operate tourism activities effectively, develop smart and environmentally friendly tourism products.

Commitment for the advancement of sustainable tourism development

At the forum, many experts, provinces and tourism businesses shared their experiences and efforts in green transformation and committed to accompanying sustainable green development.

Responding to the green transformation for sustainable development, Quang Ninh - one of Vietnam's famous tourist destinations, also contributed to the Forum by sharing that Quang Ninh has identified the transformation of tourism from "brown" to "green" as a sustainable development direction, becoming a spearhead economic sector.

Mr. Nguyen Ha Hai, Vice Chairman of Quang Ninh Tourism Association, said that the province has issued resolutions, decisions and specific programs to implement the green tourism development strategy. Coto Island District is a typical example of "greening" tourism, minimizing plastic waste, and protecting the marine environment. Quang Ninh commits to supporting all efforts to transform the tourism industry into a sustainable model. We have and are implementing many measures such as strengthening environmental management, introducing eco-tourism products, and cooperating closely with domestic and foreign partners to ensure that tourism in Quang Ninh not only brings economic benefits but also maintains cultural and environmental values.

Ninh Binh, with famous scenic spots such as Trang An, Tam Coc - Bich Dong, has implemented many programs and projects on green tourism, achieving many positive results. The province has built and applied green tourism criteria for accommodation establishments and tourist areas; promote source waste classification; apply scientific and technological solutions to waste treatment. Ninh Binh is also aiming to develop eco-tourism, community-based tourism, preserve and promote the cultural and natural values of the locality.

The Vietnam Tourism Association has also issued green tourism criteria, encouraging tourism businesses to participate in the "Vietnam Green Tourism" program. The association also cooperates with international organizations to support tourism businesses in applying international green tourism standards.

A representative of the Ninh Binh Provincial Tourism Association shared: "Ninh Binh is committed to developing eco-tourism in a sustainable way, protecting the environment and improving the lives of local people. We have and are implementing many measures such as environmental protection, developing community-based tourism and introducing eco-tourism products such as trekking, mountain climbing, kayaking."

Mr. Patrick Haverman, Deputy Country Representative of UNDP Vietnam, highly appreciated Vietnam's commitment to developing green tourism. He emphasized that: "The transition to a sustainable tourism model is not only an opportunity but also a necessity. This will bring long-term benefits to both people and the environment, while creating comprehensive and balanced development for Vietnam's tourism industry. UNWTO is ready to support Vietnam in sharing experiences, knowledge and resources to achieve green tourism goals."

With the contributions of diverse perspectives from leading experts and localities, the Vietnam Tourism Forum is at the forefront of shaping a sustainable and environmentally friendly tourism future. Green transformation is not just a trend but also a commitment and responsibility of all of us for the existence and development of Vietnam's tourism industry.