[VnExpress] Pay-As-You-Throw Waste Collection Fees: Getting It Right for Effective Implementation

The policy of charging household waste collection fees based on the volume or weight of waste generated, which is expected to be implemented nationwide, has attracted significant attention from both the public and local authorities.

According to Mr. Nguyen Quang Huan, Member of the National Assembly and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Halcom Vietnam JSC, charging waste collection fees based on the amount of waste generated does not mean weighing each household’s garbage bag individually. He noted that this misunderstanding, if left unaddressed, could create public concern and make the policy more difficult to implement.

Mr. Huan emphasized that the central government should issue clear and consistent implementation guidelines, allowing local authorities to calculate waste collection fees based on household size and average waste generation rates, rather than manually weighing each bag of waste. He noted that this approach is more scientific and transparent while remaining consistent with the “polluter pays” principle established under Vietnam’s Law on Environmental Protection.

A representative of the Vietnam Clean Water and Environment Association also emphasized that implementation should not be delayed while waiting for perfect conditions. A phased pilot approach would help refine the regulatory framework, raise public awareness, and improve the effectiveness of waste management, ultimately contributing to a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable living environment.

Read the full article on VnExpress.