Environmental and social management plan

Plastic waste management represents a formidable challenge in Asia and the Pacific, with volumes projected to reach approximately 110–115 million tonnes by 2030 (UNEP, 2021), driven by rapid urbanization and surging material consumption. This is a matter of grave concern due to the non-degradable nature of plastics and their transboundary health impacts. Globally, recycling rates remain stagnant at a mere 9%, leading to significant environmental leakage that contaminates waterways and threatens biodiversity. This regional crisis is further exacerbated by social inequalities; specifically, women in the informal waste sector often lack recourse to safe working conditions and social protections, despite their pivotal role in the waste value chain.

To combat these challenges, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and The Coca-Cola Foundation (TCCF) launched a three-year regional initiative on 23 January 2025. This program aims to improve plastic waste management and accelerate circular economy models across nine (09) Asian countries, including Viet Nam. As a strategic participant in this regional effort, the Viet Nam project harnesses the collective efforts of key actors to catalyse cross-sector collaboration among government, the private sector, academia, and development partners. The initiative focuses on piloting and scaling up innovative solutions, such as the incubation of plastic-related startups, gender-responsive sourcing to empower waste workers, and "waste-to-shore" programs for fishing boats. By mainstreaming best environmental practices and fostering regional knowledge exchange, the TCCF project aims to curb plastic leakage significantly and improve livelihoods while building a more sustainable, inclusive circular economy in Viet Nam and the broader region.