More effective ways to build up a circular economy in Viet Nam has been put into discussions at a symposium recently held by the Da Nang-based Viet Nam-UK Research and Training Institute.

The event took place within the framework of the UK’s Newton Fund-sponsored ‘Circular Economy Knowledge Hub: Promoting Multi-Disciplinary Research, and Enhancing Capacity and Leadership’ project.

During the event, attendees have been introduced to circular economy-related basic knowledge, and how to apply circular economy principles in different sizes of businesses.

Additionally, they have learnt about opportunities and challenges posed by developing a circular economy in Viet Nam, circular economy business models from experts’ perspectives, the value chain of plastic producers and consumers, and the life cycle assessment of nylon bags and other alternative materials.

In particular, a cooperative agreement on boosting training and research activities about circular economy was signed by the Viet Nam-UK Research and Training Institute, the Institute of Environmental Science and Technology under the Ha Noi University of Science and Technology, the Institute for Circular Economy Development under the Viet Nam National University-HCMC, the Da Nang Socio-Economic Development Research Institute, and the Da Nang Entrepreneurship Support (DNES).

Under the agreement, the parties will together carry out many bilateral exchanges of students and lecturers, as well as organise training and internship programmes, plus intensive academic activities, in a bid to provide optimal solutions for current economic activities in Viet Nam.

A circular economy (also referred to as circularity) is an economic system aimed at eliminating waste and the continual use of resources. Circular systems employ reuse, sharing, repair, refurbishment, remanufacturing and recycling to create a closed-loop system, minimising the use of resource inputs and the creation of waste, pollution and carbon emissions.

The Danang Circular Economy Hub (DCEH) officially debuted in Da Nang in November 2020 with the aim of seeking best environmental protection solutions for the city's sustainable development.

By PHONG LAN - Translated by M.D