Ho Chi Minh City sets 2045 clean environment target

Photo: Chau Tuan / Tuoi Tre

Ho Chi Minh City has outlined an ambitious environmental programme aimed at eliminating major pollution hotspots by 2030 and creating a cleaner, healthier urban environment by 2045.

Pollution controls and waste targets

The draft programme, presented by the municipal Department of Agriculture and Environment, calls for tighter control of major pollution sources and stronger action on climate change. It contains 18 targets covering environmental finance, pollution control, nature conservation, disaster prevention, greenhouse gas reduction and green growth.

Among the most significant proposals is a target to collect and treat all household solid waste in both urban and rural areas. Direct landfill disposal would be reduced to below 10 percent, a standard that officials say is more ambitious than the national benchmark.

The city also plans to address air pollution and contamination in inner-city canals and waterways, while improving waste sorting and treatment. These areas have long been among the most visible environmental concerns for residents.

More parks and greener neighbourhoods

The programme identifies expanded green space as a long-term priority. Plans include additional parks, more tree-covered areas, improved permeable surfaces and the restoration of green corridors along canals, rivers and other urban waterways.

Tree protection and new planting would be coordinated with urban and rural planning. The city also wants environmental projects to support climate adaptation, disaster resilience and better overall living conditions.

A third pillar promotes circular and low-carbon economic activity, supported by digital technology and international environmental cooperation. These measures are intended to help Ho Chi Minh City move towards net-zero emissions while continuing to develop as Vietnam’s largest economic centre.

What it means for foreigners in Vietnam

For foreign residents and visitors, the most noticeable changes should be cleaner waterways, improved waste collection and more accessible green public areas. Tighter pollution controls could also improve air quality in heavily populated districts, although the timetable means many benefits will depend on steady implementation over several years.

The proposals remain in draft form, but they provide a clear indication of the environmental standards the city intends to pursue through 2030 and beyond.

14 August 2026