VietNamNet Bridge – A mobile application to provide people information about solid waste classification at source was unveiled in HCM City on June 21.

The HCM City Department of Natural Resources and Environment has launched a mobile app providing information related to classification of solid wastes at source. — VNS Photo

The app, “Phân loại chất thải rắn tại nguồn” (Solid waste classification at source) has been created by the Department of Natural Resources and Environment (DONRE) and the Viet Nam Post and Telecommunications Group.

The helpful sorting tool offers users helpful tips on how to separate various types of untreated solid wastes through images, videos and text.

It also shows the process of solid waste collection, how to categorise the waste based on recycling labels and a list of solid waste types.

Users can send their feedback to the department about environmental issues and the app.

Speaking at the launch, DONRE director Nguyen Toan Thang said: “Applying technological solutions to management is necessary and plays an important role as the fourth industrial revolution unfolds.”

In 2009, the then Prime Minister approved a national strategy for integrated management of solid wastes until 2025.

The department has been tasked with improving solid waste management and treatment, Thang said.

“People can download and install the app on Android and IOS devices and it is easy to use.”

It is expected to help the city meet its goal of reducing landfills to improve the environment, with 100 per cent of people fully understanding how to separate solid wastes into organic waste and others at source for recycling, he said.

HCM City produces some 8,300 tonnes of solid waste daily, with 75 per cent of it being buried instead of being appropriately classified and treated.

The main sources are residential buildings, industrial zones, food stores, shopping malls, business centres, schools, government offices and traditional markets.

Solid waste classification was trialled in 2008 but has yet to work as efficiently as expected.

Since 2015, a pilot programme has been run involving households in six districts, but only 20-30 per cent of the target has been achieved, according to the People’s Committee.

The city hopes to have 50 per cent of garbage classified at source by 2020. 

Source: VNS