Say no to single-use plastic products

According to Decree No. 08/2022/ND-CP dated January 10, 2022, which details several provisions of the Law on Environmental Protection, from 2025 onwards, shopping malls and supermarkets are no longer allowed to circulate or use single-use plastic products or non-biodegradable plastic packaging.

In recent times, many supermarkets, shopping centers, and retail stores across Hai Phong city have taken measures to help consumers get accustomed to avoiding plastic bags.

AEON Mall Hai Phong has set up a dedicated checkout lane for customers who do not use plastic bags. The supermarket also offers a rental service for reusable bags for those who forget to bring their own and do not wish to use plastic bags.

Furusawa Yasuyuki, General Director of AEON Vietnam Co., Ltd., said that in September 2019, AEON Vietnam launched a project to reduce single-use plastic waste by encouraging customers to bring their own bags when shopping at AEON general stores and supermarkets nationwide. AEON also produces environmentally friendly bags with attractive designs.

At Mega Market Hai Phong, plastic bags are not provided to customers. Instead, shoppers are given free cardboard boxes made from reused packaging materials available at the store or can purchase reusable bags.

At GO supermarkets in both eastern and western Hai Phong, initiatives to reduce plastic bag usage include giving away GO fabric bags or selling reusable bags at non-profit prices (9,000 VND and 16,000 VND per bag). The stores also proactively use cardboard boxes to pack goods, limiting the use of plastic bags.

Currently, many retail brands across the city are also saying no to plastic bags. The Tokyolife store chain has stopped offering plastic bags, requiring customers to either bring their own, purchase reusable bags, or use store-provided cardboard boxes. This shift has not affected customer turnout.

Meanwhile, two CHU Kafe branches in western Hai Phong now use over 90% paper cups, paper bags, and biodegradable plastic straws, accepting a 10–15% increase in costs compared to conventional plastic products.

Last July, the Department of Agriculture and Environment issued a directive to relevant departments, units, and localities to support the program “Plastic-free July.” This is just one of many activities aiming to raise awareness about minimizing the use of single-use plastic waste, especially plastic bags, cups, and containers.

BAO CHAU