Lifestyle

The Capital’s Trash Troubles: Locals and Foreigners Unite to Fight Hanoi’s Garbage Crisis

Community clean-up groups, including Keep Vietnam Clean, Hanoi Xanh, and Tagom, are igniting a passion for environmental conservation in the hearts of hundreds of volunteers across Hanoi. Their tireless efforts to maintain the city's greenery and promote sustainable practices are truly inspiring.

Administrator

26 February, 2025

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The story of American national James Joseph Kendall and his dedication to cleaning up Vietnam’s waterways has inspired many. In 2016, an image of Kendall alone in a polluted canal in Hanoi, collecting trash, circulated online, and it served as a catalyst for change.

The photograph, depicting Kendall amidst metal rods, plastic waste, and other litter, shocked people into action. It sparked a movement, with thousands of Vietnamese and foreign members joining Keep Clean Vietnam (KCV), a waste collection organization.

The issue of plastic waste is a pressing global concern, with KCV member Tue Minh highlighting that only nine percent of the 300 million metric tons of plastic waste produced annually is recycled. The potential health risks are significant, as plastic waste can contaminate water sources, increasing cancer risks.

KCV took a proactive approach in early 2024, partnering with other organizations to host an environmental documentary film week across Vietnam. This event, held in major cinemas and embassies, raised awareness about global warming and waste management issues.

Environmental protection groups like Hanoi Xanh and Tagom are also making a difference. Hanoi Xanh, founded by Nguyen Tien Huy and his friends, has over 500 members and has cleaned more than 100 polluted areas along Hanoi’s rivers, collecting an impressive 2,000 metric tons of waste. Their passion and commitment have united young people toward a common goal of a greener Hanoi.

Tagom, on the other hand, specializes in hazardous waste management. They collect and properly dispose of difficult-to-recycle items like batteries, light bulbs, and plastic. With over 1,000 members and business partners, they handle more than a metric ton of hazardous waste monthly, making a significant impact on the environment.

These groups, through their dedicated efforts, are not just cleaning up Vietnam’s waterways but also fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and awareness. Their work inspires us to take action and protect our planet for future generations.