The local authorities of Ha Long Bay have taken a series of serious actions to stay away from pollution caused by the non-smoking industry and boost sustainable growth.
The bay, in north-east Viet Nam, has been highly recommended in tourists' must-see list since 1994 when it was named as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its spectacular seascape. The bay was also honored as one of the new Seven Wonders last November.
With outstanding natural and cultural values, Quang Ninh and Ha Long Bay have attracted an increasing number of tourists over the years. The figure jumped to over 5.5 million in 2011, including 2.3 million international visitors. Up to 90% of Australians coming to Viet Nam visited Ha Long Bay.
However, the development of the tourism industry has posed a threat to the local environment and many fear that Ha Long Bay would become a victim of its own success.
In recent years, local authorities of Quang Ninh Province have adopted action programs and many measures to preserve and promote the heritage value of Ha Long Bay.
Director General of the Viet Nam National Administration of Tourism Nguyen Van Tuan recently was quoted as saying that mining and minerals exploration activities and fast urbanization have defuncted the self-cleaning capacity of Ha Long Bay.
It is time for the local authorities to bravely say no to projects which would pollute water area of the bay.
According to Deputy Chairman of Quang Ninh People’s Committee Dang Huy Hau, the local authorities have asked the Viet Nam National Coal and Mineral Industries Holding Corporation Limited (Vinacomin) to early formulate a master plan for environmental protection in the coal-mining region.
Along with that, they have also sought ways to improve dumping grounds, treat sewage and collect rubbish littered along the beach.
The Ha Long Bay Management Board has, for its part, asked seafood producers, farms, households, and tourist boats to make commitments to protecting the environment.