Vietnam has set forth eco-labeling standards for plastic packaging that is environmentally friendly. These standards are designed to promote the sustainable use of resources and environmental protection. The Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Vo Tuan Nhan, has endorsed the issuance of these guidelines.
The eco-label targets two types of plastic packaging: those that are biodegradable and those made predominantly from eco-friendly materials such as polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP). These products can take various forms, including bags and films, for a range of uses in the domestic, industrial, agricultural, and construction sectors.
The Vietnam Eco-label for eco-friendly plastic packaging lays out a set of overarching requirements, mandating that products be produced in facilities compliant with environmental laws and relevant regulations. There are three detailed criteria:
1. The first criterion addresses the origin of materials. For biodegradable packaging, materials must be made from biodegradable plastics, while recycled packaging should consist of clean, recycled PE and PP plastics. These materials must be free from banned additives and must adhere to safety regulations concerning inks, dyes, and other additives used in production.
2. The second criterion pertains to technical specifications and pollution limits. Products must meet national or international standards for quality. Biodegradable packaging should have a minimum 90% biodegradation rate within two years in natural settings, including compost or landfill. Recycled packaging must contain at least 20% recycled plastic material.
3. The third criterion involves recovery, recycling, processing, and disposal strategies. It requires detailed plans for the recovery and recycling of used packaging, including information about recycling facilities and processes, disposal methods, recycling technologies, and measures to protect the environment, all in line with legal requirements.
Plastic packaging, which can take centuries to decompose fully, contributes to pollution and is often improperly recycled or disposed of alongside other waste. The production of plastic packaging also impacts the environment through greenhouse gas emissions, fuel consumption, and the depletion of natural resources.
By adopting efficient production practices for packaging, significant economic and environmental benefits can be realized. These include reducing reliance on petroleum-based raw materials, minimizing landfill waste disposal costs, conserving resources needed for plastic production, and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
