
Top 10 highlights of the natural resources and environment sector in 2024
25/12/2024TN&MTThe year 2024 marked significant milestones in the natural resources and environment sector, showcasing a strong commitment to sustainable development and addressing challenges posed by climate change. At the 2024 annual summary and 2025 mission planning conference held on December 21, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment announced the sector's top events of 2024.
At the 2024 annual summary and 2025 mission planning conference held on December 21, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment announced the sector's top events of 2024
According to Decision No. 4132/QD-BTNMT dated December 20, 2024, issued by the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, the 10 key events include:
1. Strengthened leadership and unified efforts toward sustainable development and carbon neutrality
Conclusion No. 81-KL/TW was issued by the Politburo on June 4, 2024, to reinforce the implementation of the 7th Central Resolution of the 11th Party Congress on proactively responding to climate change, improving resource management, and environmental protection.
The conclusion calls for recognizing new development trends and implementing comprehensive, groundbreaking strategies for sustainable resource and environmental management. This includes green investment, low-carbon economic development, just energy transition, and the use of clean, renewable energy to achieve sustainability and carbon neutrality. The integration of economic growth, environmental protection, and climate resilience, alongside Vietnam’s commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050, is both a significant challenge and an opportunity for sustainable national development.
2. The 2024 Land Law: A breakthrough for unlocking land resources
The newly enacted 2024 Land Law aims to streamline land resource management as a key driver for national development. The law introduces bold reforms to enhance the institutional framework and administrative efficiency, decentralizing authority to local governments while simplifying administrative procedures. These changes aim to optimize land use and support Vietnam's transition to a high-income country.
3. Geological activities codified into Law for the first time
The 2024 Geological and Mineral Resources Law incorporates geological activities into long-term management strategies, balancing economic, social, and environmental interests. It emphasizes the protection of geological resources as part of ecosystems, the exploration of resources for research and heritage preservation, and the application of circular economy models in mineral extraction and processing.
4. National marine spatial planning: A vision for sustainable marine economy
For the first time, Vietnam issued a National Marine Spatial Plan, a strategic initiative that underscores its long-term vision for sustainable and modern marine economic development. The plan integrates multi-sectoral approaches to maximize resource efficiency and promote international cooperation in marine conservation and economic growth.
5. River basin water scenarios for effective management
Water scenarios for the Red River–Thai Binh and Mekong Delta river basins were developed under the 2023 Water Resources Law. These scenarios provide frameworks for seasonal water management, conservation, and efficient use, helping stakeholders align resource exploitation with sustainable practices.
6. Growth of geological parks for sustainable development
The establishment of Lang Son Global Geopark as Vietnam’s fourth UNESCO Global Geopark exemplifies the country’s commitment to preserving its unique geological, ecological, and cultural heritage. These geoparks boost local tourism, scientific research, and biodiversity conservation, contributing significantly to green development.
7. Discovery of rare and unique animal species
In 2024, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) announced the discovery of 112 new and rare species in Vietnam. These findings highlight Vietnam's rich biodiversity and underscore the urgent need for conservation efforts amid development pressures and climate change challenges.
8. Enhanced policy communication for grassroots impact
Policy dissemination in 2024 emphasized connecting central and local authorities, with nationwide forums and conferences ensuring that environmental and resource policies effectively reach grassroots levels. These efforts improved legal compliance and public awareness.
9. Digital transformation in natural resources and environment management
In 2024, nearly 20.5 million data transactions facilitated resource sharing across over 500 services. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment achieved nationwide integration of land and demographic databases, streamlining public services and enabling effective digital governance.
10. Extreme weather and lessons from typhoon Yagi
Despite proactive measures, Typhoon Yagi (Typhoon No. 3) caused severe damage due to its unprecedented intensity. This event underscored the escalating impact of climate change and the critical role of forecasting and preparedness in disaster mitigation. Vietnam continues to lead in climate adaptation planning, enhancing resilience against natural disasters and advancing global climate goals.
These events represent milestones in Vietnam’s journey toward sustainability, resilience, and global leadership in environmental stewardship.
Ngoc Huyen