On the afternoon of August 2, Mr. Lê Văn Phong – Chairman of the Côn Đảo District People’s Committee – chaired a conference with representatives from local agencies, organizations, and all 10 residential communities to review the draft project titled “Côn Đảo Says No to Plastic Bags.”
According to the report presented by Sao Mai Media & Event Co., Ltd – the consulting unit – the project is planned to be implemented from May 2019 to 2024 and will be carried out in two stages:
- Pilot phase: Implemented at the Hàng Dương Cemetery
- Full-scale implementation: Expanded to the Côn Đảo market, business establishments, public agencies, schools, and residential areas
Project Objectives
The draft sets several specific goals, including:
- By the end of 2024, 35% of residents will use eco-friendly bags instead of conventional plastic bags
- 100% of agencies, enterprises, and service providers in residential areas will be equipped with knowledge about the environmental impacts of non-biodegradable plastic bags
- 100% of tourists will refrain from bringing plastic bags when visiting Hàng Dương Cemetery
Strengthening awareness and promoting behavioral change regarding plastic waste reduction across the community
Discussions at the Conference
Representatives of agencies, social organizations, and residential communities contributed several opinions related to:
- The timeline for project implementation
- Suitable alternatives to non-biodegradable plastic bags
- Communication and awareness-raising methods for different community groups
- Funding sources for the project
- Integrating the initiative with broader campaigns to reduce plastic waste
Conclusion from the District Leadership
Chairman Lê Văn Phong emphasized that plastic bags and plastic waste in general pose serious environmental risks. As an island district distant from the mainland and limited in land area, Côn Đảo has clear advantages in implementing a comprehensive initiative to “Say No to Plastic Bags” as part of its sustainable development strategy.
- He requested:
- The consulting unit and the Department of Natural Resources and Environment to incorporate feedback and finalize the proposal
- The Department of Natural Resources and Environment and the Economic Department to survey the current consumption of non-biodegradable plastic bags and evaluate eco-friendly alternatives
- Relevant agencies and residential communities to continue contributing ideas to ensure high consensus during implementation
- Strong encouragement and mobilization of businesses to supply eco-friendly packaging materials on the island
With collective effort and community participation, the project aims to build a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable Côn Đảo for residents and visitors alike.
