Vietnam’s Green Transition: Eco-Industrial Parks Implementation
Introduction to Eco-Industrial Parks (EIPs)
With a standardized legal framework for eco-industrial parks now in place, Vietnam’s green transition pivots on effective policy implementation. This article delves into the practical mechanisms by which industrial parks reduce emissions, enhance resource efficiency, and bolster competitiveness.
Accelerating Sustainability in Industrial Parks
Across Vietnam, industrial park developers and tenants are rapidly embracing renewable energy, circular economy practices, and internationally recognized green standards. Initiatives like rooftop solar systems and on-site renewable generation are becoming commonplace, aligning with tightening environmental, social, and governance (ESG) requirements and evolving investor expectations.
Vietnam’s industrial parks are increasingly transitioning from compliance-driven models to integrated, market-oriented green infrastructure. This shift positions them as vital contributors to national net-zero and export competitiveness strategies.
The Surge of Renewable Energy in Industrial Parks
Renewable Energy Potential in Vietnam
Vietnam is endowed with a favorable climate and abundant renewable energy resources, crucial for mitigating climate change impacts. Decision No. 768 outlined the country’s vast technical potential for renewable energy, indicating:
- 221,000 MW from onshore wind
- 600,000 MW from offshore wind
- 963,000 MW from solar power, with notable potentials from ground-mounted, water-based, and rooftop solar systems.
By 2025, Vietnam had installed a solar energy capacity of 16,000 MW and 8,000 MW from onshore wind. The ambitious targets include increasing solar power sources to between 168,594 MW and 189,294 MW by 2050.
Inter-Regional Renewable Energy Hubs
Decision 768 also aims at establishing inter-regional renewable energy industrial and service centers by 2030, with key features:
- Large-scale power generation (2,000–4,000 MW capacity)
- Integrated ecosystems producing renewable energy equipment
- Infrastructure supporting renewable energy projects
- Green industrial parks clustering renewable energy users and manufacturers
- Facilities aimed at workforce development in the renewable sector
Current Landscape of On-Site Renewable Energy
Rooftop solar has emerged as a promising solution for industrial parks, allowing companies to develop decentralized energy grids independently. Noteworthy examples include the LEGO Group’s newest factory aiming for full renewable energy operation through 12,400 rooftop solar panels.
As of 2024-2025, Vietnam’s rooftop capacity in industrial parks exceeded 3,200 MWp, with an estimated potential to reach 20,000 MWp by 2030.
Circular Economy and Industrial Symbiosis
Emphasizing Circularity in EIPs
A core requirement for EIP recognition is the establishment of a circular economy and industrial symbiosis. This approach promotes integrated ecosystems where resources like energy, water, and materials are shared and reused among enterprises, minimizing waste and emissions.
Under Decree 9716, at least one industrial symbiosis initiative must be executed collectively by enterprises, while international environmental management systems, such as ISO standards, must be adhered to.
Flagship Projects Demonstrating Industrial Symbiosis
DEEP C Industrial Zones
A flagship pilot project launched in November 2025 focuses on industrial wastewater reuse, employing advanced technologies for high-quality water treatment. This water is then reused within the industrial zone, showcasing resource efficiency and circular economy implementation.
Nam Cau Kien Industrial Park
Investing in circular practices from inception, Nam Cau Kien has adopted advanced wastewater treatment technologies and operates closed-loop industrial operations. It effectively recycles by-products and waste, demonstrating practical applications of industrial symbiosis.
Role of International Standards and Certifications
I-RECs as a Tool for Decarbonization
Industrial parks assist tenants in acquiring International Renewable Energy Certificates (I-RECs), validating renewable energy generation. These certificates facilitate compliance with global ESG standards and attract foreign investment.
In DEEP C’s sustainability report for 2024, a significant number of I-RECs were issued, reflecting strong renewable energy generation in the region.
Adopting Green Building Certifications
Industrial parks increasingly pursue green building certifications like LEED, enhancing asset value and appealing to eco-conscious tenants. Despite challenges, there’s growing demand; over 50% of buildings in the broader industrial sector already meet green standards.
Developers Committing to Green Standards
Developers are embedding green standards systematically into new projects. For instance, KCN Vietnam has committed to aligning future projects with international benchmarks, targeting energy savings and low carbon footprints as core objectives.
The Path Forward for Vietnam’s Industrial Parks
Vietnam’s industrial parks are pivotal for the nation’s economic growth and ecological transition. As global manufacturers emphasize ESG compliance, the transformation of industrial parks into greener, more efficient models becomes essential for competitiveness.
With government policies supporting the establishment of eco-industrial parks, enhanced coordination among developers, and sustained international collaboration will be critical in scaling green initiatives across the nation.
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