Municipal Solid Waste Management in Vietnam: Status and the Strategic Actions

Document Type : Original Research Paper

Authors

1 Graduate School of Environmental Science – Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Okayama 700-8530, Japan

2 College of Environment and Natural resources – Can Tho University Campus II, 3/2 street, Ninh Kieu district, Can Tho city, Vietnam – Tel/Fax: 0710-383-1068

Abstract

In Vietnam, municipal solid waste (MSW) has being become increasing complex due to variety
of reasons as the increasing quantity, changing composition of MSW, rising public awareness and municipal
administration policies among different cities and surrounding communities. There is not currently an efficient
management system in place for facilities such as storage, collection, transfer, transportation and disposal of
MSW. Against this backdrop, this paper attempts to analyze the present system of MSW addressing variety
of aspects such as quantity and composition of MSW generation, operational management, legal system as
well as financial aspect. The systematic assessment has revealed the problems like lack of legal framework,
low coverage, improper waste storage, less encouragement for composting, and lack of proper disposal
practices. Finally, an action plan is proposed suggestion for current and future addressing the issues as the
operational management, institutional, financial aspect, public participation, environmental education, and
legal and policies.

Keywords