Hà Nội is moving forward with a plan to restrict polluting vehicles across 12 current districts, along with some soon-to-be-upgraded districts and two new cities, aiming to improve air quality and reduce congestion.
The goal will be supported by increased investment in public transport, including metro lines and bus rapid transit (BRT) routes, awareness-raising campaigns and incentives for a phasing out of motorbikes.
Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính has said we must "breathe life into the rice plants," instilling new vitality in the rice industry through digital technology, green development, circular economy, and innovation.
The project is of paramount significance for regional farmers, rice industry, and Việt Nam's broader efforts to combat climate change, aiming for net-zero emissions in line with commitments made at the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26).
Another obstacle is the lack of clear incentives for farmers to adopt low-emission farming methods. Without specific policies encouraging these changes, many farmers remain reluctant to abandon traditional high-emission practices.
