MINISTRY OF EDUCATION & TRAINING

OPEN UNIVERSITY HO CHI MINH CITY

SPECIAL TRAINING DEPARTMENT
▢▢▢▢▢

FACULTY OF SPECIAL TRAINING

GRADUATION PAPER
TOPIC:
AIR POLLUTION IN HO CHI MINH CITY

Name: Hoàng Ngọc Anh Thư - 2357010324

Nguyễn Ngọc Yến Vân - 2357010402
La Ngọc Bảo Quốc - 2357010264
Nguyễn Bá Thiên Ân - 2357010032
Class: DH23EL03C
Subject: Academic Writing
Lecturer: Nguyễn Đông Phương Tiên
 DECLARATION

NAME : Hoàng Ngọc Anh Thư

STUDENT ID : 2357010324

UNIT NAME : Academic Writing

EMAIL ADDRESS : 2357010324thu@ou.edu.vn

DATE SUBMITTED : March 8th, 2025

WORD COUNT :

I certify that the attached material is my original work. No other person’s work
or ideas have been used without acknowledgement. Except where I have clearly
stated that I have used some of this material elsewhere. I have not presented this
for assessment in another course or unit at this or any other institution.

Name/Signature: Hoang Ngoc Anh

Date: March 8th, 2025
Thu
 Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh city

Table of content
Abstract
Chapter 1 : Introduction
1.1 Hook, overview of Air Pollution
1.2 Current and impact of Air Pollution in HoChiMinh City
1.3 Solution for Air Pollution
Chapter 2: Sources of Air Pollution
2.1.Introduction
2.2. Natural Causes of Air Pollution
2.2.1. Wildfires
2.2.2. Domestic Wildfires
2.2.3. Transboundary Wildfires
2.2.4. Dust Storms
2.3. Human Activities Causing Air Pollution
2.3.1. Transportation Emissions
2.3.2. Industrial Pollution
2.3.3. Agricultural Pollution
2.3.4. Agricultural Pollution
2.4. Conclusion
Chapter 3 : Impact cause by Air Pollution
3.1 Respiratory Health
3.2 Cardiovascular Health
3.3 Environmental Impacts
3.4 Contribution to Global Warming
Chapter 4: Mitigation and Control Measuring
4.1 Goverment Regulations
4.2 Tchonological Solutions
4.3 International Coopertation
4.4 The Role of Students
Chapter 5 : Conclusion
5.1 Vietnam’s participation in International Agreements
5.2 Financial and Technical Support from International Partners
5.3 Future Directions for Air Quality Improvement

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 Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh city

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

First of all, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the Faculty of Special
Training for giving me the opportunity to do research and providing invaluable
guidance throughout this research study.
I would like to express my deep and sincere gratitude to my research instructor,
Ms Nguyễn Đông Phương Tiên, for her patience and faith in me. As a thoughtful
instructor, she gave me invaluable advice on the research subject. Particularly, she
helped me recognize the chief focus of the study which I would have missed since my
original ideas were too wide to be fully and efficiently covered. Furthermore, I want to
express my gratitude to her checking and proof-reading through which I could see my
flaws and improve gradually. In fact, I could see myself improving after each and
every insightful feedback she gave during the writing of this paper. All in all, it was a
great privilege and honour to work and study under her guidance. I am sure she is the
one to lay the basis for my scientific eagerness, and I hope that her future scientific
journey will be as fruitful and prosperous as ever.
I am also grateful to my friends, for their editing help, proofreading, and moral
support. Right from the beginning, they gave me helpful advice on the topic for this
paper. Especially I am especially thankful to my significant other who burned the
midnight oil with me during hard times when I had to search for data and relevant
studies to support my paper. It would be a mistake to overlook their practical
suggestions and constructive criticism they gave me in the data collecting phase.
I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all of the participants in my study.
Their willingness to share their experiences and insights has been invaluable to my
research and has helped to complete this paper. I would like to recognize the immense
effort that I received from the interviewees who allocated their valuable time and
personal experience to assisting me in time of need. I am grateful to all researchers and
authors whose studies and research have provided me with essential references
throughout this process. Without their research findings, this thesis would not have
been possible.
I would be remiss in not mentioning my family, especially my parents, my brother as
well as my niece who provided me with encouragement throughout the duration of this
project. Their belief in me has kept my spirits and motivation high during this process.

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 Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh city

Chapter 1 : Introduction
1.1 Hook, overview of Air Pollution
Imagine bursting into the streets every day, making money is not essential anymore but
wearing a mask is more important than bringing home the bacon. According to the
report of IQAir, Ho Chi Minh City is one of the most polluted cities in the world, with
PM2.5 fine dust levels 11 times higher than the World Health Organization (WHO)
recommendations. On January 14, 2025, the city's Air Pollution Quality Index (AQI)
reached 194, ranking fourth among the most polluted cities globally. This alarming
trend raises a critical question: What is air pollution and what causes degradation in the
air?
1.2 Current and impact of Air Pollution in HoChiMinh City
Air pollution refers to the presence of hazardous substances in the air, which can be
caused by chemical, physical, or biological agents, and can significantly alter the
natural characteristics of the atmosphere. The consequences of this environmental
crisis are far-reaching. For human health, polluted air can lead to various diseases,
cardiovascular problems, and death. However, the environmental impact is equally
devastating with polluted air harming, and increasing the levels of greenhouse gases
which lead to rising global temperatures, extreme weather events such as wildfire, and
dust storms, and harm the balance of climate change. As the problem grows more
urgent, it is clear that effective solutions must be set in motion to ease the impact of air
pollution.
1.3 Solution for Air Pollution
Environmental policies are important in regulating releases, and promoting cleaner
tools. Innovations in technological such as renewable energy sources and advanced air
sifting systems, offer tools to reduce pollution at its source, for example, carbon
capture and storage (CCS) technology is a method that captures carbon dioxide from
sources like factories, power plants and stores it underground to prevent it from being
released into the atmosphere, helping reduce the greenhouse effect. Public awareness
and community engagement are also key to encouraging responsible behavior and
supporting policies that protect air quality. Air pô n has reached a critical level, posing
threat to human health and the environment. Therefore, action is needed to stricter
environmental policies, and public awareness is necessary to mitigate, control , and
ensure a sustainable future.

Chapter 2. Sources of Air Pollution in Ho Chi Minh City

2.1. Introduction

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 Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh city

Did we realize that our fresh air is being polluted by dust, emissions, and hazardous
chemicals? In fact, air pollution is one of the most pressing environmental issues today,
significantly affecting human health and the global ecosystem. This phenomenon
results from both human activities and natural factors. To fully understand the sources
of air pollution, both aspects must be examined comprehensively.

2.2. Natural Causes of Air Pollution

2.2.1. Wildfires

Wildfires are a major source of air pollution, especially during dry seasons. Climate
change has exacerbated these natural disasters, making them more frequent and severe.
Prolonged droughts increase the likelihood of wildfires, which can spread rapidly due
to strong winds. The release of smoke, carbon monoxide, and fine particulate matter
from wildfires significantly degrades air quality and can travel long distances, affecting
areas far beyond the fire's origin.

2.2.2. Domestic Wildfires

Although Ho Chi Minh City does not have extensive forests, cases of wildfires have
still been recorded. For example, in April 2024, a large forest fire broke out on Cau
Mountain in Dau Tieng District, Binh Duong Province, destroying 4.5 hectares of
forest and releasing substantial amounts of pollutants into the air. The smoke and dust
from this incident affected air quality in Ho Chi Minh City for a period of time
(VietnamPlus). Recognizing this risk, local authorities have implemented fire
prevention and firefighting measures, significantly reducing the number of such
incidents in recent years.

2.2.3. Transboundary Wildfires

Ho Chi Minh City is also affected by wildfires from nearby regions and neighboring
countries. For instance, the wildfires in Indonesia in September 2019 released large
amounts of smoke and dust, which traveled across borders and worsened air quality in
the city. Similar events have occurred in the past, demonstrating how distant fires can
impact urban air conditions. The haze caused by these transboundary wildfires contains
harmful pollutants such as PM2.5, which can cause respiratory diseases and other
health complications.

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 Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh city

2.2.4. Dust Storms

Dust storms also play a role in deteriorating air quality. These storms occur when
strong winds lift dust and sand into the air, spreading pollutants over long distances.
Additionally, construction activities contribute significantly to dust pollution. For
example, a report from 2016 indicated that residents along Kinh Duong Vuong Street
in Binh Tan District experienced severe dust pollution due to the prolonged
construction of an anti-flooding project. Soil and debris scattered across the area were
continuously stirred up by passing vehicles, forcing pedestrians to wear masks and
negatively impacting respiratory health, especially for children and the elderly (vtv.vn).
Dust storms not only affect visibility but also worsen conditions for individuals with
pre-existing respiratory illnesses, such as asthma and bronchitis.

2.3. Human Activities Causing Air Pollution

2.3.1. Transportation Emissions

Vehicle emissions are among the leading causes of pollution, especially in major cities
like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. With over 7 million motorbikes and nearly 1 million
cars in Ho Chi Minh City alone, emissions from transportation contribute significantly
to air pollution, releasing pollutants such as CO₂, NO₂, and PM2.5 particles.
According to a report by the Institute of Environment and Natural Resources,
emissions from transport amounted to 13,484,958 CO2eq/year, with motorbikes being
the highest contributor at 63% (thiennhienmoitruong.vn). Additionally, traffic
congestion worsens the problem, as idling vehicles continuously emit pollutants into
the atmosphere, further reducing air quality.

2.3.2. Industrial Pollution

Industrial activities also play a crucial role in air pollution. In Hanoi, industrial zones
such as "Cao - Xa - La" release hazardous chemicals, including dust, SO₂, and NOx,
from rubber, soap, and tobacco manufacturing plants. Similarly, in Ho Chi Minh City,
industrial zones like Tan Binh, Vinh Loc, and Hiep Phuoc emit large amounts of
pollutants from textile, plastic, and chemical manufacturing factories. Many of these
facilities still rely on coal as an energy source, worsening air quality and posing serious
health risks (songtre.com.vn). The accumulation of industrial pollutants in the air can
cause long-term health problems, including lung diseases and cardiovascular issues.

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 Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh city

Although Ho Chi Minh City does not have coal power plants within its boundaries, it is
still affected by pollution from nearby provinces. For example, the planned Long An
Thermal Power Plant in Can Giuoc District, Long An Province, has raised concerns
about air pollution spreading to Ho Chi Minh City. Coal-fired power plants emit
pollutants that contribute to acid rain, thick smog, and climate change. Even without
local coal plants, pollution from surrounding areas can still degrade air quality in the
city.

Moreover, some factories illegally burn hazardous waste instead of disposing of it

properly, releasing dangerous substances such as dioxins and furans, which pose severe
health risks. In areas where environmental regulations are not strictly enforced,
outdated industrial technology further exacerbates pollution. Efforts to transition to
cleaner energy sources and enforce stricter emission controls have been proposed, but
challenges remain in implementation and compliance.

2.3.3. Agricultural Pollution

Although Ho Chi Minh City is not an agricultural hub, smoke from post-harvest crop
burning in neighboring provinces, especially in the Mekong Delta, can be carried by
wind and worsen the city's air quality. In agricultural regions such as the Red River
Delta and the Mekong Delta, farmers frequently burn crop residues, releasing large
amounts of dust and harmful gases like CO₂. This practice not only worsens air quality
but also reduces visibility, posing risks to traffic safety (kinhtemoitruong.vn).
Additionally, open-field burning contributes to the release of methane, a potent
greenhouse gas that exacerbates climate change.

2.3.4. Agricultural Pollution

Household activities also contribute to air pollution, though to a lesser extent. The use
of coal stoves, wood-burning stoves, and chemical-based household products—such as
paints, cleaning agents, and aerosol sprays—emits toxic gases like CO₂, NOx, and
VOCs.

In some suburban areas near Ho Chi Minh City, certain households still use charcoal
and wood-burning stoves, which release PM2.5 fine dust—a major cause of respiratory
diseases. Additionally, common household products like air fresheners and cleaning

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solutions contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can accumulate indoors
and worsen air quality. A 2023 article from Tuoi Tre warned that long-term exposure
to these chemicals could lead to health issues such as headaches, dizziness, and lung
diseases.

Another concerning issue is the burning of household waste, especially plastic, in some
neighborhoods. Despite regulations, a 2022 report by moitruong.net.vn found that open
waste burning still occurs, releasing toxic dioxins and furans, which are harmful to
both health and the environment. Despite existing regulations prohibiting such
practices, illegal waste burning continues in many areas.

While household pollution is not as severe as industrial or vehicular emissions, raising

awareness and adopting eco-friendly habits—such as using electric stoves, avoiding
aerosol sprays, and properly disposing of waste—can help improve air quality.

2.4. Conclusion

Air pollution is caused by a combination of natural and human activities. While natural
disasters such as wildfires and dust storms contribute to the problem, human actions—
including transportation, industrial production, waste burning, and agricultural
practices—are the primary drivers. Understanding these causes is crucial for
implementing effective solutions. By taking action to reduce emissions, enforce
environmental regulations, and promote sustainable practices, both the environment
and public health can be better protected.

Chap 3: Impacts of Air Pollution

3.1: Impact on human health
3.1.1: Respiratory health

The impact of air pollution plays a crucial role in human health. First, it affects
multiple organ systems and increases the risk of serious illnesses. One of the most
significant outcomes is its impact on respiratory health. Polluted air contains high
amounts of nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and ozone (O₃), which are
the main factors in causing respiratory diseases. Long-term exposure to polluted air can
lead to asthma, bronchitis, and an increased risk of lung cancer.According to the
American Cancer Society (ACS), as of 2024, lung cancer remains the most commonly
diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. In 2022,
approximately 2.5 million new cases were reported, accounting for 12.4% of all cancer

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diagnoses, with about 1.8 million deaths, representing 18.7% of all cancer fatalities.
Annually, Vietnam records approximately 26,200 new lung cancer cases, with
projections indicating that deaths could rise to nearly 24,000 by 2024.

3.1.2: Lung Cancer

In addition, air pollution has a significant effect on cardiovascular health. When

you breathe in poor-quality air, the pollutants can travel deep into your bloodstream
through your lungs and reach your heart. This increases the risk of developing heart
and circulatory diseases. As air pollutants travel through the bloodstream, they can
damage blood vessels by making them narrower and harder, restricting blood flow. As
a result, the heart has to pump faster to circulate blood, which can lead to increased
blood pressure. Even more dangerously, individuals with preexisting heart and
circulatory conditions face a higher risk of heart attacks or strokes due to this damage.

3.1.3: Premature death

Perhaps the most alarming consequence of air pollution is its role in causing
premature death. According to global health studies, millions of people die each year
due to illnesses caused or worsened by air pollution. Long-term exposure accelerates
the progression of both respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, leading to higher
mortality rates, especially in urban areas with high pollution levels. Vulnerable
populations, including infants, pregnant women, and the elderly, face the greatest risks.
According to a 2022 report, approximately 7,300 premature deaths annually in Ho Chi
Minh City are attributed to current PM2.5 levels.

3.2: Impact on environment

3.2.1: Acid Rain

Not only does air pollution affect human health, but it also harms the
environment we live in. One major impact is acid rain, which is caused by a chemical
reaction that occurs when sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides are released into the
atmosphere. These substances rise high into the air, where they mix and react with
water, oxygen, and other chemicals to form acidic pollutants, known as acid rain. Acid
rain damages plants by leaching essential nutrients from the soil, making it less fertile
and hindering or even preventing plant growth. It also acidifies lakes and rivers,
harming aquatic life by reducing pH levels and making the water toxic for fish and
other organisms. According to the General Department of Environment, the Northern
and Central regions of Vietnam recorded acid rain frequencies ranging from 15% to
85%, with Da Nang having the highest frequency at 83.1%, followed by Cuc Phuong
(55%) and Hoa Binh (34.9%). Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have a lower frequency of

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acid rain compared to other areas.

3.2.2: Smog Formation

Another significant environmental effect is smog formation, which reduces

visibility and creates hazardous conditions. The term "smog" is a combination of
"smoke" and "fog." It is primarily formed due to vehicle emissions, industrial
activities, and the burning of fossil fuels, which react with sunlight and atmospheric
conditions. Smog is highly dangerous to humans, as it increases the risk of lung and
heart diseases. In urban areas, heavy smog can reduce visibility, disrupt transportation,
and even cause flight cancellations.

3.2.3: Wildlife And Ecosystem

However, perhaps the most devastating impact of air pollution is its effect on
wildlife and ecosystems. Just as pollutants harm human health, they also weaken
animals' immune systems, making them more vulnerable to stress and disease, reducing
reproductive success, and even causing death. Additionally, acid rain alters the pH
levels of lakes and rivers, making survival more difficult for fish and other aquatic life.
At the same time, smog and ground-level ozone lower air quality, which can negatively
impact the respiratory health of birds and other animals. These environmental changes
disrupt ecosystems, leading to a decline in biodiversity and long-term damage to
nature.

3.3: Climate change

3.3.1: Global warming

One clear result of air pollution is global warming. Air pollution plays a major
role in contributing to global warming. Pollutants such as carbon dioxide (CO₂) and
methane (CH₄) trap heat from the sun in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to a rise in
global temperatures and creating a well-known phenomenon called the greenhouse
effect. Additionally, black carbon, commonly known as soot, directly absorbs solar
energy and releases it as heat, further aggravating the warming effect.These pollutants
primarily come from human activities such as burning fossil fuels, industrial emissions,
and deforestation. Moreover, the increasing use of vehicles in our society exacerbates
the issue. Vehicles like motorbikes and cars release significant amounts of methane
(CH₄), which is one of the main contributors to the greenhouse effect. According to
data from the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Transport, as of September 2024, the
city manages approximately 9.5 million vehicles, including 989,505 cars and 8,431,000
motorcycles. Additionally, around 1.5 to 2 million vehicles from other provinces enter
and circulate in the city daily. The transportation sector in Ho Chi Minh City emits

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over 13 million tons of CO₂ per year, accounting for 37% of the city’s total emissions.
Besides CO₂, road traffic contributes 99% of carbon monoxide (CO) emissions, 78%
of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emissions, and 75% of fine particulate matter (PM2.5)
pollution in the city. Ultimately, we can see that air pollution not only affects human
health but also accelerates climate change, making it a critical challenge for us.

Eventually, we can see that air pollution poses a significant threat to both human
health and the environment. It not only increases the risk of respiratory and
cardiovascular diseases but also contributes to premature death and accelerates climate
change. Prolonged exposure to polluted air leads to severe health conditions,
particularly affecting vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and
individuals with preexisting health issues. Moreover, air pollution plays a major role in
environmental degradation, causing acid rain, smog formation, and the destruction of
ecosystems, which ultimately threaten biodiversity and disrupt natural habitats. Perhaps
most concerning is its role in accelerating climate change, as pollutants like carbon
dioxide and methane trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to rising global temperatures
and extreme weather conditions. Given these serious consequences, it is crucial for
governments, industries, and individuals to take immediate action by implementing
effective solutions to reduce pollution, improve air quality, and promote a healthy
place for the future generation.

3. Mitigation and Control Measures

3.1 Government Regulations

The government plays an important role in reducing air pollution by making
strict rules. One important rule in Decision No.19/2024/QĐ-TTg,which sets new
emission standards for vehicles. From 2025, all imported and locally made cars must
level 5 standards,while motorcycles must meet level 4 by 2026. These rules help cut
pollution from traffic and make the air cleaner in big cities like Ho Chi Minh city
(thuvienphapluat.vn).
The government also controls pollution from factories through QCVN
19:2024/BTNMT, which limits harmful gases from industries (SCEM,2024). In Ho Chi
Minh city, air pollution is a serious issue, so the local government has extra solutions.
They conduct motorcycle emissions checks and plan to remove old,high emission
vehicles by 2025. The city already has a metro system and electric buses to encourage
people to use public transport instead of private vehicles. These efforts help reduce
traffic emissions and improve air quality in Ho Chi Minh city.

3.2 Technological Solutions

Besides these government efforts, technology also plays a key role in reducing

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air pollution. Clean energy sources such as solar and wind power help reduce
dependence on fossil fuels like oil and coal, which are the main causes of air pollution.
Many countries worldwide, such as Lebanon, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and
South Africa, are researching and investing in ways to switch to renewable
energy.Switching to renewable energy helps reduce CO₂ and fine dust emissions. This
not only makes the air cleaner but also protects public health.
Also, developing clean energy helps reduce the need to import fuel, making
energy supplies more stable (tapchitaichinh.vn & tapchicongsan.vn). In VietNam, the
government has issued Decree No.135/2024/NĐ-CP, which encourages the use of
rooftop solar power for homes and businesses (chinhphu.vn). In big cities like Ho Chi
Minh city, the local government is also promoting solar power in houses and electric
vehicles. Besides that, many factories now use air-cleaning technology to reduce
pollution. These systems help filter out harmful gases before they go into the air,
making the environment healthier. The Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee has also
introduced policies to develop green and eco-friendly transport
(baotainguyenmoitruong.vn).

3.2 Technological Solutions

While government policies lay the foundation for reducing pollution, public
awareness and individual actions are key to long-term improvements. Many daily
activities contribute to air pollution, including household emissions and transportation
choices. One of the major sources of air pollution comes from household activities
such as waste burning and cooking with solid fuels. Although 99.5% of households in
Vietnam use electricity (gso.gov.vn), some still rely on charcoal and firewood,
especially in suburban and rural areas, releasing harmful gases like CO₂ and PM2.5.
Additionally, unregulated waste burning emits toxic smoke, worsening air quality and
harming public health.
To address this, authorities encourage people to switch to cleaner energy sources
like electric, induction, or gas stoves, and promote waste separation to minimize
burning (dangcongsan.vn). Besides household emissions, transportation significantly
contributes to air pollution in urban areas, with private vehicles, especially
motorcycles, producing nearly 70% of pollutants such as CO, VOCs, and NO₂
(Scem.gov.vn). To reduce traffic emissions, Ho Chi Minh City has introduced Metro
Line 1 (Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien) and electric buses, offering free rides for 30 days to
encourage people to switch to public transport (doanhnhansaigon.vn). However,
infrastructure alone is not enough—raising public awareness is essential for long-term
change. Education campaigns through schools, media, and local organizations help
people understand the benefits of using cleaner transport and energy. In countries like
Japan and the Netherlands, strong policies and public awareness programs have
successfully encouraged cycling and walking, reducing traffic emissions. If similar

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efforts are widely promoted in Ho Chi Minh City, they can lead to a significant
improvement in air quality.
Ultimately, reducing air pollution is not just the responsibility of the government
but also of individuals. By making small changes in daily habits, such as using public
transport, reducing household emissions, and supporting green initiatives, people can
contribute to a cleaner and healthier city.

3.4 International Cooperation

While government rules and new technology help reduce air pollution, bigger
solutions need countries to work together. Many environmental problems, including air
pollution, affect the whole word, so different nations must join hands to solve them.
Vietnam has actively participated in international agreements to protect the
environment and reduce air pollution. One of the most important commitments is the
Paris Agreement on Climate Change, which was adopted at the 21st Conference of the
Parties (COP21) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
(UNFCCC) in Paris, France, in December 2015. This agreement aims to keep the
global temperature increase below 2°C compared to pre-industrial levels, with efforts
to limit it to 1.5°C to prevent severe consequences of climate change (vi.wikipedia).
On April 22, 2016, Vietnam, along with more than 170 other countries,
officially signed the Paris Agreement at the United Nations headquarters in New York,
demonstrating a strong commitment to addressing climate change (dcc.gov.vn). By
November 2016, Vietnam had ratified the agreement, integrating it into national
policies aimed at reducing air pollution and protecting the environment. Vietnam’s
participation in the Paris Agreement has driven the implementation of concrete
measures, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, transitioning to renewable
energy sources, and adopting clean technological solutions (dangcongsan.vn &
moit.gov.vn).
Vietnam has actively cooperated with international organizations to enhance
environmental protection and promote sustainable development. The World Bank
(WB) has supported Vietnam in developing renewable energy, increasing its share to
nearly 10% of the country's total power capacity. Additionally, the WB has participated
in multiple projects assisting Vietnam in developing smart transportation systems and
promoting renewable energy, contributing to the country’s sustainable development
goals (vi.wikipedia)
As a result of these collaborations, Vietnam has made significant progress in
renewable energy. By December 2022, electricity generation from renewable sources
reached approximately 130 billion kWh, accounting for nearly 48% of the country's
total electricity production, with hydropower contributing 35% and wind, solar, and
biomass energy making up 13%. This shift has reduced Vietnam’s dependence on
fossil fuels and supported its transition toward a low-carbon economy

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(Nangluongtaitao.vn)
Ho Chi Minh City, as Vietnam's economic hub, has actively participated in
environmental protection initiatives and air pollution reduction within the framework
of international commitments. The city has implemented programs for renewable
energy use, air quality improvement, and sustainable transportation with support from
the World Bank (WB) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Projects such as the development of electric buses, the expansion of urban green
spaces, and efficient waste management not only help reduce greenhouse gas emissions
but also lay the foundation for a smart and sustainable city. These efforts contribute not
only to Vietnam’s overall goals under the Paris Agreement but also help Ho Chi Minh
City better adapt to climate change and improve the quality of life for its residents.

3.5 The Role of Students in Environmental Protection

For students, solving air pollution is not just an issue for governments and
businesses, students also play a crucial role in creating a cleaner and healthier
environment. College students can actively engage in various activities that promote
environmental awareness and practices. For example, OU college students participate
in school clubs such as OU Green Plus club that raise awareness about the dangers of
air pollution and their voices inspire people to use public transport or biking instead of
private vehicles to create healthier, cleaner communities. As many students are active
in joining social work, and social media, they can utilize their platform to promote
environmental issues, motivate action, and raise awareness among people. They can
also plant trees, collect trash, and support local transportation.

Additionally, college students and people can adopt environmentally friendly

habits in their daily lives, such as using less plastic or encouraging their families to
switch to cleaner energy sources like solar power. Another example is encouraging the
use of electric vehicles within their community and supporting businesses that
prioritize eco-friendly practices. In university settings, students can practice on
campus, like reducing waste, using energy-efficient appliances, and promoting
recycling programs.

By taking small everyday actions, such as walking or cycling instead of driving,

or even spreading knowledge about the importance of renewable energy, students
impact significantly to reducing air pollution. Their involvement in local and global
environment can inspire broader change and help protect the environment for future
generations. Ultimately, students can be powerful individuals for positive
environmental change by adopting practices and leading by example.

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 Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh city

Survey of Open University students on air pollution in Ho

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Chi Minh City.

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 Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh city

What actions do you take to reduce your exposure to air

pollution?

Minh Wear a mask when going outside, Avoid outdoor activities on high
pollution days, Use air purifiers at home
Nguyễn Minh I wear a mask whenever I go outside, especially in areas with heavy
Thư traffic. I also avoid going out during peak hours and stay indoors
when the air quality is poor. In addition, I use an air purifier at home
to ensure clean air indoors.
Lê Thanh Vân I often wear mask and coat to decrease your exposure to air pollution
Lan Wear a mask when going outside, Keep windows closed to prevent
pollution from entering
Lê Minh Anh I check the AQI before going out, wear a mask on polluted days, keep
Thư windows closed, use an air purifier, and avoid outdoor activities when
air quality is poor.
Quang None
Hương Wear a mask when going outside, Avoid outdoor activities on high
pollution days, Use air purifiers at home, Keep windows closed to
prevent pollution from entering.
Nguyễn Khánh Wear a mask.
Thụy An
Tuấn Wear a mask when going outside
Nguyễn Trần Wear a mask.
Kim Vy
Dương Triệu Always wears a mask outside, avoids going out during rush hours,
Tường Vy uses an air purifier at home.
Nguyễn Thị Wear a mask and limit outdoor activities in the sun.
Nhi
Anh Nhi Keeps windows closed to prevent dust, wears a mask when

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 Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh city

commuting, avoids exercising outdoors on high-pollution days.

Nguyễn Thị Limit going out during peak hours and wear an anti-dust mask when
Ngọc Hoài going outside.
Bảo Hân Wears a mask outdoors, uses an air purifier, keeps living spaces
clean, avoids going outside on bad air days.
Anh Thoa Wear a mask when going outside.
Lâm Mỹ Nhân Sometimes wears a mask when the air is too dusty.
Nguyệt Vy
Wear a thick, standard-approved mask that can filter fine dust when
going outside or use fine dust filters for the nose.

Ngọc Như
Monitor air quality, limit going outside when pollution is high, wear a
mask, clean the house regularly, and prioritize using public
transportation.

Nguyễn Tấn Wear a mask when going outside.

Phát

Anh Kiệt
Sometimes check the air quality, try to stay indoors on polluted days,
wear a mask when necessary, keep the living space clean, and
prioritize using public transportation when possible..

La Ngọc Bảo
Quốc Wear a mask.

Hoàng Ngọc Wear a mask when going outside.

Anh Thư
Nguyễn Trần Avoid outdoor activities
Anh Tú

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 Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh city

Nguyễn Ngọc
Yến Vân .Wear a mask when going outside and use public transportation.

Nguyễn Bá
Thiên Ân Wear a mask when going outside.

What actions do you take to help reduce air pollution?

Minh Use public transportation instead of personal vehicles, Reduce energy

consumption, Participate in environmental campaigns
Nguyễn Minh Uses public transport, rides a bicycle instead of a motorbike, saves
Thư electricity and water, plants trees, raises awareness.
Lê Thanh Vân Saves electricity, uses recycled materials.
Lan Wears a mask when going outside, keeps windows closed to prevent
pollution from entering.
Lê Minh Anh Uses public transport, saves electricity, avoids burning waste, plants
Thư trees, raises awareness.
Quang None
Hương Uses public transportation, rides a bike or walks when possible,
reduces energy consumption, participates in environmental
campaigns, encourages eco-friendly habits.
Nguyễn Khánh Stays at home.
Thụy An
Tuấn Uses public transportation, reduces energy consumption.
Nguyễn Trần Wear a mask.
Kim Vy
Dương Triệu Uses public transportation, reduces single-use plastics, participates in
Tường Vy environmental campaigns.

19
 Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh city

Nguyễn Thị Wear a mask and limit outdoor activities in the sun.
Nhi
Anh Nhi Raises awareness about air pollution’s health impacts, encourages
friends and family to adopt greener habits.
Nguyễn Thị Limit going out during peak hours and wear an anti-dust mask when
Ngọc Hoài going outside.
Bảo Hân Wears a mask outdoors, uses an air purifier, keeps living spaces
clean, avoids going outside on bad air days.
Anh Thoa Wear a mask when going outside.
Lâm Mỹ Nhân Sometimes wears a mask when the air is too dusty.
Nguyệt Vy
Wear a thick, standard-approved mask that can filter fine dust when
going outside or use fine dust filters for the nose.

Ngọc Như
Monitor air quality, limit going outside when pollution is high, wear a
mask, clean the house regularly, and prioritize using public
transportation.

Nguyễn Tấn Wear a mask when going outside.

Phát

Anh Kiệt
Sometimes check the air quality, try to stay indoors on polluted days,
wear a mask when necessary, keep the living space clean, and
prioritize using public transportation when possible..

La Ngọc Bảo
Quốc Wear a mask.

Hoàng Ngọc Wear a mask when going outside.

Anh Thư

20
 Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh city

Nguyễn Trần Avoid outdoor activities

Anh Tú
Nguyễn Ngọc
Yến Vân .Wear a mask when going outside and use public transportation.

Nguyễn Bá
Thiên Ân Wear a mask when going outside.

What suggestions do you have for reducing air pollution in Ho

Chi Minh City?

Minh I think the government should invest more in green public

transportation and stricter emission control for vehicles.
Nguyễn Minh Ho Chi Minh City should improve public transport, enforce stricter
Thư emission regulations, increase green spaces, promote renewable
energy, and encourage eco-friendly habits.
Lê Thanh Vân I often wear mask and coat to decrease your exposure to air pollution
Lan Raising awareness about the health impacts of air pollution is
important. Many people don’t realize how serious it is.
Lê Minh Anh I suggest the city should develop better public transportation systems
Thư to reduce the number of private vehicles on the road.
Quang No opinion.
Hương Universities should organize more green activities, plant more trees,
and reduce on-campus vehicle use.
Nguyễn Khánh Encourage the use of trains.
Thụy An
Tuấn I think businesses should be encouraged to use eco-friendly
production methods. Economic incentives can work better than just

21
 Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh city

awareness campaigns.
Nguyễn Trần Do not litter.
Kim Vy
Dương Triệu The government should enforce stricter emission controls on vehicles
Tường Vy and factories while increasing green spaces in the city.
Nguyễn Thị Educate people on environmental protection measures such as using
Nhi public transportation, bringing fabric bags when shopping, using
personal bottles when buying drinks, etc., and enforce strict penalties
for littering.
Anh Nhi More educational campaigns are needed so people understand the
dangers of air pollution and change their habits.
Nguyễn Thị Develop the public transportation system. Limit private vehicles.
Ngọc Hoài Increase green tree planting. Control industrial emissions. Raise
community awareness. Use technology to monitor air quality.
Bảo Hân Universities should organize more green activities, plant more trees,
and reduce personal vehicle use on campus.
Anh Thoa There should be environmental protection awareness campaigns.
Lâm Mỹ Nhân I think it’s the government’s responsibility. They should improve
public transportation and regulate factory emissions.
Nguyệt Vy
Encourage the use of electric vehicles, limit motorbikes, create more
spaces for pedestrians and cyclists such as urban parks, plant more
trees along sidewalks, enforce dust control measures at construction
sites to minimize fine dust pollution, regulate factory emissions, and
promote the use of reusable items like compact fabric bags.

Ngọc Như
Improve public transport, expand roads to reduce congestion, control
factory emissions, and raise awareness about air quality protection.

Nguyễn Tấn Do not litter

Phát

22
 Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh city

Anh Kiệt
Stricter emission regulations for factories and vehicles, better urban
planning to reduce traffic congestion, and more awareness campaigns
on air quality will help improve the situation.

La Ngọc Bảo
Quốc Raising public awareness.

Hoàng Ngọc Plant more trees.

Anh Thư
Nguyễn Trần Expand and improve public transportation (metro, buses) to reduce
Anh Tú reliance on motorbikes and cars.
Nguyễn Ngọc
Yến Vân Plant more trees, encourage cycling, and use reusable items like
fabric bags and paper straws.

Nguyễn Bá
Thiên Ân Plant more trees and use public transportation.

Overall, Vietnam’s participation in international agreements and cooperation

with global organizations has significantly contributed to its efforts in reducing air
pollution. By using renewable energy projects, improving air quality, and promoting
sustainable transportation, the country is making steady progress toward a cleaner and
more sustainable future. The government is also encouraging the use of clean
technologies in industry to limit harmful emissions. By promoting sustainable
transportation solutions, such as improved public transit systems and electric buses, the
country is working to reduce traffic-related pollution. Moreover, Vietnam's
collaboration with international partners has provided crucial financial and technical
support for environmental projects, ensuring the successful operation of green projects.
Focusing on long-term strategies such as enhanced air monitoring systems, and urban
planning reforms, the country is addressing both immediate and future challenges
related to pollution.

23
 Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh city

These efforts demonstrate Vietnam’s commitment to building a cleaner, greener,

and more sustainable future, and the collaboration with international partners plays a
crucial role in achieving these environmental goals. However, to keep improving air
quality and create a healthier environment for future generations, Vietnam needs to
keep investing in environmental policies, raising public awareness, and working with
other countries.

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 Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh city

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 Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh city

https://www.tapchicongsan.org.vn/web/guest/tin-binh-luan/-/asset_publisher/
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 Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh city

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VI.WIKIPEDIA
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Nangluongtaitao.vn
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kien-thanh-tuu-va-nhan-dien-thach-thuc-30046.html

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Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh city

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