The programme was launched in 2009 in Cu Lao Cham when it was recognised as a world biosphere reserve.

Paper baskets used to contain vegetables

People in Cu Lao Cham are determined not to use plastic bags. They often bring bamboo or plastic baskets along with them to markets, instead of plastic bags. Visitors are reminded not to take plastic bags before they leave Cua Dai Port for the island. If they do, they will be fined.

Following the success of Cu Lao Cham, the programme has been widened in Hoi An. In 2017, the city developed a plan to use only friendly-environmentally products.

At meetings of some state-owned agencies in Hoi An, plastic drinking water bottles have been replaced with glass.

The city has also launched a movement to reduce the use of plastic bags at local markets. People are called on to bring bamboo or plastic baskets instead of plastic bags. Market traders have pledged not to provide free plastic bags to customers. Environmentally-friendly bags are encouraged to be used.

Nguyen Van Son, vice chairman of Hoi An City, said that the locality attracts millions of visitors per year. The daily discharge of more than 100 tonnes of litter has caused big pressured to the city’s waste treatment.

Cu Lao Cham Island is also trying to get rid of the plastic straw use and other plastic products which can be used for one time.