Hanoi, Vietnam’s bustling capital, has once again topped global rankings for air pollution, a stark reminder of the environmental challenges facing the nation. As urban centers choke under smog, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has approved an ambitious plan to transition from coal to clean energy, signaling a pivotal shift in Vietnam’s energy policy. With air quality worsening and international pressure mounting, the government is under scrutiny to deliver a sustainable roadmap, particularly for the electric vehicle (EV) sector, which Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha has urged to prioritize with a specific timeline.

Air Pollution: A National Emergency

Vietnam’s air pollution crisis has reached critical levels, with Hanoi repeatedly named among the world’s most polluted cities in 2024 reports. Particulate matter (PM2.5) levels often exceed World Health Organization guidelines by significant margins, posing severe health risks to millions. Industrial emissions, rampant coal use, and vehicle exhausts are primary culprits, compounded by rapid urbanization. The government has acknowledged the urgency, with recent statements from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment highlighting the need for immediate action in major cities.

The human toll is evident. Respiratory illnesses are on the rise, and public frustration is palpable, as citizens don masks and air purifiers become household staples. Social media platforms like X reflect widespread discontent, with users calling for stricter regulations on industrial polluters. While the government has initiated measures such as tree-planting campaigns and temporary factory shutdowns, critics argue these are insufficient to address systemic issues tied to Vietnam’s heavy reliance on coal-powered energy.

Coal to Clean: A Bold Transition Plan

In a landmark move, Prime Minister Chinh recently greenlit a comprehensive strategy to pivot away from coal, which currently dominates Vietnam’s energy grid. According to a 2024 study cited by local outlets, coal accounted for a significant portion of the nation’s power generation, contributing heavily to greenhouse gas emissions. The new plan aims to accelerate the adoption of renewable sources such as solar and wind, with targets to reduce coal dependency by 2030. Though specifics on funding and timelines remain under wraps, the policy aligns with Vietnam’s commitments under the Paris Agreement and its goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

This shift is not without challenges. Vietnam’s energy infrastructure is deeply entrenched in coal, with numerous plants still under construction or recently completed. Transitioning to renewables requires substantial investment, technological expertise, and international cooperation. Prime Minister Chinh has sought support from global partners, including Japan and Russia, for high-tech solutions and new-generation Official Development Assistance (ODA) to fund clean energy projects. During a recent meeting with Japanese officials, Chinh emphasized the need for technology transfer to bolster Vietnam’s renewable sector.

Electric Vehicles: The Roadmap to Cleaner Transport

Transportation, a major contributor to urban air pollution, is another focal point of Vietnam’s environmental strategy. Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha has called for a detailed roadmap to promote electric vehicles, urging stakeholders to set clear deadlines for infrastructure development and incentives. Vietnam’s streets, particularly in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, are clogged with motorbikes and cars running on fossil fuels, exacerbating smog levels. An EV shift could significantly cut emissions, but the transition faces hurdles like high costs, limited charging networks, and consumer skepticism.

The government has introduced pilot programs, including subsidies for EV purchases and plans to install charging stations in urban centers. Domestic manufacturers like VinFast are also pushing the envelope, with ambitions to become a global EV player. However, analysts caution that without robust policy support—such as tax breaks and stricter emission standards—the uptake of electric vehicles may remain sluggish. If successful, this initiative could position Vietnam as a regional leader in sustainable transport, aligning with broader ASEAN goals to combat climate change.

International Cooperation and Economic Implications

Vietnam’s clean energy ambitions are closely tied to its international partnerships. Prime Minister Chinh’s participation at the World Economic Forum in Davos earlier this year underscored the country’s commitment to global cooperation on climate issues. Engagements with nations like Japan, Russia, and the United States have yielded promises of technical and financial support. For instance, Chinh has urged Russia to assist in advancing nuclear science for peaceful energy purposes, a move that could diversify Vietnam’s energy mix if safety and regulatory concerns are addressed.

Economically, the transition presents both opportunities and risks. Renewable energy projects could attract foreign direct investment and create jobs, positioning Vietnam as a hub for green technology in Southeast Asia. The nation is already projected to lead ASEAN+3 growth with a 6.5% rate in 2025, according to recent economic forecasts. However, phasing out coal could strain industries reliant on cheap power, potentially impacting manufacturing—a key driver of Vietnam’s export-led economy. Balancing economic growth with environmental goals remains a tightrope walk for policymakers.

Beyond policy and economics, the air pollution crisis and energy transition have profound social implications. Public health experts warn of long-term consequences if air quality does not improve, particularly for vulnerable groups like children and the elderly. The recent surge in measles cases, with nearly 40,000 suspected infections reported in 2024, has further strained Vietnam’s healthcare system, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to environmental and health challenges.

Community awareness is growing, with initiatives like WWF Vietnam’s plastic reduction models gaining traction as part of broader sustainability efforts. Yet, public trust in government action remains fragile. Many citizens, as reflected in online discussions, demand transparency on how clean energy funds will be allocated and whether polluters will face stricter penalties. Grassroots movements advocating for cleaner cities are emerging, adding pressure on authorities to deliver tangible results.

Regional Context and Climate Vulnerability

Vietnam’s environmental challenges are not isolated but part of a regional struggle. Southeast Asia, as a whole, grapples with climate change impacts, from rising temperatures to saltwater intrusion in the Mekong Delta. Vietnam ranks among the Asian countries most vulnerable to climate change, with coastal erosion and extreme weather threatening livelihoods. The government’s clean energy push, therefore, is not just a response to air pollution but a broader adaptation strategy.

Collaboration with ASEAN neighbors offers a potential lifeline. Malaysia, Thailand, and Laos have also prioritized sustainability, with joint initiatives on cross-border energy grids and climate resilience gaining momentum. Vietnam’s leadership in this space could strengthen its regional standing, especially as it hosts forums like the ASEAN Future Forum in Hanoi. However, competing national interests and funding disparities within ASEAN may slow collective progress.

Looking Ahead: A Test of Resolve

As Vietnam embarks on this transformative journey, the stakes could not be higher. The clean energy transition and EV roadmap represent a chance to redefine the nation’s environmental legacy, but success hinges on execution. Will the government muster the political will to enforce regulations, secure funding, and engage communities? Can international partnerships deliver the technological edge Vietnam needs to leapfrog outdated systems?

For now, Hanoi’s smoggy skyline serves as a daily reminder of the urgency. As policies unfold, the world watches whether Vietnam can balance growth with sustainability, setting a precedent for other developing nations. The path to cleaner air and a greener future is fraught with obstacles, but it is a journey the country cannot afford to delay.