[Nhan Dan Newspaper] "Green University" Model

From the practice of developed countries, in recent years, the “Green University” model in Vietnam has made a positive change in the process of sustainable development. Thanks to the efforts to implement this model, many higher education institutions in Ho Chi Minh City have “changed their appearance”, creating a more friendly and dynamic look.

“Green Campus” is a project developed within the multidisciplinary and sustainable university strategy of University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City for the period 2021-2030.

The project is implemented according to the “Living Lab” model. This is an open innovation ecosystem operated with a user-centric orientation, making the most of the connection between stakeholders, with the core element being the integration of research, education, innovation, and technology to solve real-life problems.

In the first phase, the university piloted the implementation of sustainable waste management measures at Nguyen Van Linh campus, aiming for a “zero waste” lifestyle for the entire system. The set goals were that 90% of organic waste would be processed on-site; 95% of recyclable waste was collected and sent to recycling facilities; the amount of single-use plastic waste was reduced by 30%, and 70% of students and staff would gradually change their behavior in practicing a green lifestyle.

At that time, the university focused on implementing a communication campaign to raise awareness and change behavior about waste classification using the 3R model (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) with many seminars, exhibitions, competitions, movements, etc.

In July 2023, University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City officially issued the "Green Campus" Practice Regulations. According to this regulation, stakeholders are encouraged to carry out actions listed as minimizing waste discharge, practicing waste classification at source, recycling or reusing discarded materials, pacticing resource saving, increasing the use of stairs, or participating in public transportation.

In particular, the “Green Practice Station at UEH” is an area for practicing waste classification before disposal according to the regulations. From October 2023 to March 2024, four tons of recyclable waste were classified by the school and sent to the collection and recycling unit. Nearly 50% of the staff and students at this university have been aware of the regulations on Green University and the 3R model.

The school representative stated: In the next period, we will continue to promote solutions to promote green living, to improve the effectiveness of the models, and to maintain comprehensive sustainable development.