Thousands join ActionAid's climate walk

THE HANOI TIMES — More than 1,100 people, among them students and teachers, took part in a 3-km walk at the Vietnam National University of Forestry on March 26 to launch the nationwide campaign "Cut Emissions - Protect the Future" and to promote climate responsibility among young people.

The event was held jointly by the university, ActionAid Vietnam, and the Aid for Social Protection Foundation Vietnam (AFV).

Titled "Walking for People and Planet," the event went beyond physical activity to become a platform for educational engagement, civic action, and international cooperation, all aimed at advancing sustainable development goals.

As the host institution, the Vietnam National University of Forestry chose the walk as a comprehensive and symbolic action to promote the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), forest conservation, and climate adaptation.

President of the Vietnam National University of Forestry (VNUF) Pham Van Dien said the event was an opportunity for individuals to demonstrate their commitment to nature and society, emphasizing that small, consistent efforts can lead to long-term impact.

Dien said "Walking for People and the Planet" is an activity that allows both lecturers and students at our university to take responsibility for their health and the well-being of our planet. With each step, young people not only improve their physical health but also contribute a greener lifestyle by reducing the negative impact of personal vehicles. 

"Every step taken today sends a powerful message to the community about the responsibility to protect the environment and demonstrates the deep connection between humans and nature," said Dien. 

A major highlight of the event was the signing of a trilateral cooperation agreement between the University, ActionAid Vietnam, and AFV. The partnership will roll out a youth-focused program aimed at empowering young people, especially young women, in areas such as climate justice, community engagement and environmental education.

Jennifer Vidmo, Secretary General of ActionAid Sweden, praised the spirit and leadership of the Vietnamese youth. She described the event as more than a symbolic act, saying it reflected a long-term commitment to meaningful change.

Vidmo emphasized the importance of creating space for youth-led initiatives in the green transition and noted the value of collaboration between civil society, educational institutions and local communities.

She also highlighted the role of the Vietnamese media in shaping public awareness on climate and sustainability issues, saying, "I praise Kinh te & Do thi (Economic and Urban) Newspaper/The Hanoi Times for its consistent and responsible reporting. It is a leading voice in Vietnam for environmental and social justice." Vidmo added, "Such journalism directly contributes to raising awareness, generating dialogue, and inspiring action."

Reflecting on her visit to Vietnam, Vidmo described the country as a source of global inspiration, with resilience in overcoming past challenges and its leadership in inclusive and equitable climate adaptation. She expressed her intention to share these experiences with the audience in Sweden.

AFV Chairman Ta Viet Anh provided further context, citing United Nations data showing that extreme weather events have caused more than US$4.3 trillion in damages worldwide over the past 50 years.

"Vietnam remains one of the six countries most vulnerable to climate change, making it an urgent task to empower youth and accelerating local action, especially in major cities where air pollution continues to exceed safe limits," said Viet Anh.

Youth empowerment is both an educational goal and a national development strategy."

According to the organizers, "Walking for People and Planet" is an example of practical cooperation between educational institutions, social organizations and international partners. The event demonstrated how cross-sectoral efforts can support sustainable development through youth engagement and concrete action.