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HA NOI — An overall and far-reaching strategic plan is needed if Viet Nam is to reduce industrial pollution and improve public health, according to a report released on Monday.

Entitled ‘Environmental Toxicological Problems Resulting from Chemical Uses in Viet Nam: an Assessment of Training Requirements’, the report was launched in the presence of Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn Mahidol, the President of the Bangkok-based Chulabhorn Research Institute.

According to scientists’ findings, Viet Nam must take urgent steps to lower the amount of pollutants used by industry and reduce their impact on the environment.

The fast rate of growth of the chemicals industry has seriously affected the health of not only the environment but the population, and this issue must be addressed and dealt with swiftly, according to the report which was prepared by the Ha Noi Department of Science, Technology and the Environment and the Chulabhorn Institute.

With the help of the UN Development Programme (UNDP), experts have carried out a comprehensive study of environmental pollution, focusing the use of chemicals by industrial and agricultural enterprises throughout Viet Nam.

"This report is a landmark document which will enable decision makers and planners in government, academia and the industrial sector to chart a future course for sustainable development, for the benefit of both Viet Nam and our region as a whole," said Princess Chulabhorn.

"By mapping out the status of chemical and pesticides in all phases, from production and usage to management and distribution, the report is the first step to address this challenge for Viet Nam," added Jordan Ryan, UNDP Resident Representative.

The report recommends that Viet Nam formulate and implement an appropriate legal framework for chemical safety and conduct intensive training programmes for enterprises in the State and private sectors. It also suggests that the country should work to raise environmental awareness amongst decision makers, scientists and the general public.

Princess Chulabhorn also attended the opening of a training course on the toxicology of pesticides and industrial chemicals with regard to occupational health and safety. It is hoped that the course will further strengthen the links between the Chulabhorn Institute and Ha Noi Department of Science, Technology and the Environment. — VNS