On 1 November 2024, EuroCham actively engaged in the “Green Media Hub: The Role of Press and Business Leaders in Sustainability” workshop held in Ba Ria Vung Tau. This collaborative event brought together over 100 participants, including representatives from the Vietnam Journalists Association, governmental departments, and leaders from national and provincial media agencies. By contributing valuable insights and fostering discussions, EuroCham highlighted its commitment to promoting sustainability in Vietnam and its crucial role in bridging the gap between media and business in advancing green initiatives.
Erick Contreras, Co-Chairman of EuroCham’s Green Growth Sector Committee (GGSC), played a pivotal role in the discussions, addressing the challenges Vietnamese enterprises face in transitioning towards a circular sustainable economy. He articulated several key obstacles, including awareness gaps, access to technology and finance, and the need for a comprehensive policy framework. Erick emphasised the importance of understanding sustainability principles and integrating them into business practices.
The workshop featured informative presentations, including insights from Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Dinh Tho of the Institute for Policy Strategy (MONRE) on Vietnam’s sustainability policies and its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions. Additionally, TH True Milk highlighted the role of green factory development and the necessity for a robust legal framework to support extended producer responsibility (EPR) initiatives.
A panel discussion followed, featuring prominent media and industry leaders who delved into the role of the press in fostering sustainable development. Erick Contreras reiterated the essential role of media leaders in enhancing awareness and supporting businesses in their green transformations. He called for a greater focus on sustainability topics in the media, urging journalists to create dedicated platforms for sharing best practices and advocating for policies that facilitate the transition to greener business models.
Erick concluded with a vision for strengthened collaboration between the press and business sectors to promote sustainability in Vietnam. “We need more green growth columns and special features that allow us to exchange information and learn from each other,” he said. He cited the success of EuroCham’s recent Green Economy Exhibition & Forum 2024 (GEFE 2024) as an example of how collaboration can drive significant progress in sustainability efforts.
