From generation to treatment: regional solid waste dynamics in vietnam (2015–2018) with international context
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59531/ots.2026.4.1.145-159Keywords:
regional disparities, circular economy, waste treatment, Vietnam, sustainability, solid waste managementAbstract
This study examines regional disparities and temporal trends in solid waste generation (SWG) and treatment (SWT) across six regions of Vietnam from 2015 to 2018, and places Vietnam in an international context. Using original data and descriptive statistics, the findings reveal notable regional inequalities in waste management performance. The Southeast (SE) and Red River Delta (RRD) maintain high and stable SWT levels (typically over 80%), supported by better infrastructure and industrial concentration, while the Mekong River Delta (MRD), Central Highlands (CH), and Northern Midlands and Mountains (NMM) lag behind due to limited resources and low public awareness. Temporal patterns show initial improvements followed by stagnation in some regions, reflecting uneven policy implementation and infrastructure challenges. Compared to other countries, Vietnam is positioned as a transitional economy where waste management systems are expanding but still rely heavily on landfilling and face structural limits in technological innovation and education. Drawing on international lessons, this study recommends region-specific strategies: decentralized composting and community collection in rural areas, and energy recovery and circular economy approaches in industrialized and coastal zones. Integrating these efforts within a circular economy framework and encouraging citizen participation can improve efficiency and equity in Vietnam’s waste management system.
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