Hanoi joins Earth Hour 2025: Green Transition - Green Future

THE HANOITIMES — The launch event of Earth Hour 2025, themed "Green Transition - Green Future", took place this morning (22 March) at Hoan Kiem Lake with the enthusiastic involvement of thousands of residents, organizations, and businesses. 

Speaking at the event, Vu Chi Mai, representative of the GIZ Energy Support Program (ESP) of the German Agency for International Cooperation, said: "This is our fourth year of supporting Earth Hour in Vietnam. Through a series of informative and inspiring activities under the theme "Green Transition - Green Future", we hope to encourage individuals and organizations to take action for a more sustainable future. Our goal is to make energy efficiency and conservation a natural part of everyday life. In doing so, we contribute to building a green economy."

Le Anh Thu, Vice Chairwoman of Hoan Kiem District People's Committee, said: "This summer is forecast to be the hottest in history, surpassing the heat wave of 2024. This challenges each of us to change our way of thinking and living for ourselves and future generations."

Hoan Kiem District has actively responded to the city's energy-saving plan, saving 15.4 million kWh of electricity in 2024. The district has set a target to reduce electricity consumption by 2.2% in 2025. Although a modest figure, it reflects the locality's responsibility and commitment to spread awareness about energy conservation and encourage a green lifestyle in every neighborhood.

"I hope this event marks the beginning of a powerful movement that inspires everyone to contribute to a greener Hanoi, a greener Vietnam, and a healthier planet," Thu said.

The event unfolded in an atmosphere of excitement and energy, with a variety of interactive activities. The highlight was a creative photo opportunity space featuring a model of a traditional Hanoi balcony integrated with a solar power system. This symbolic installation not only captured the essence of the city's heritage but also conveyed a powerful message about integrating renewable energy into everyday life.

Another interactive activity was the Power Generating Bicycle Challenge. Participants pedaled special bikes to generate electricity for recharging cell phones and illuminating the event's "I am for Net-Zero" LED board. Families, including many children, eagerly accepted the challenge, making it an educational and engaging experience.

Adding further excitement to the event, the Green Movement flash mob featured students from various universities in Hanoi. Their dynamic performance energized the crowd and inspired environmental responsibility, attracting significant public attention. Additional artistic performances by students further reinforced the message of sustainable living.

Pham The Dung, Deputy Head of the State Agency for Technology Innovation under the Ministry of Science and Technology, said every small action in support of Earth Hour today contributes to significant changes for tomorrow. The green transition is not just a trend, but a key driver for sustainable development and national competitiveness. Earth Hour 2025 is an opportunity for the community to take action, promote clean energy, foster innovation, and integrate green technologies into daily life. "Through practical initiatives and collective efforts, we can create meaningful change for a greener, more sustainable future."

Tran Viet Nguyen, Deputy Head of Business at Vietnam Electricity (EVN), stated that this year, Earth Hour carries a powerful message: 'Green Transition – Green Future,' reflecting the government's roadmap for sustainable development. EVN is committed to actively participating in and driving the transition from high-carbon to low-carbon energy sources, ultimately aiming for net-zero emissions.

He said a green future requires the active involvement of every individual, organization, and business starting with everyday actions, especially the efficient and responsible use of electricity. In northern Vietnam, the peak summer months from May to July will put considerable pressure on the electricity system. Therefore, we urge the public to be mindful of electricity consumption during peak hours and adjust their consumption habits to help save energy.

"We hope that everyone will make a meaningful contribution to protect our planet and pave the way for a brighter, greener future," he stated.

Under the auspices of the Hanoi Department of Industry, the State Agency for Technology Innovation and Trade, and AT Media, the event was supported by the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) and the Southeast Asia Energy Transition Partnership (ETP), a program of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS).

Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Thuy, National Coordinator of ETP, said: "ETP is committed to supporting Vietnam in raising public awareness on green transition and sustainable development. The strong public response to Earth Hour each year demonstrates the power of collective action. ETP is currently leading a local campaign to raise awareness of the just energy transition among Vietnamese communities. Through meaningful initiatives like this, we aim to inspire responsibility and encourage everyone to join hands in shaping a sustainable future."

With the passionate turnout of thousands, Earth Hour 2025 reaffirmed the power of a movement dedicated to sustainable living. Through creative and interactive activities, the event deepened the community's awareness of energy conservation, environmental protection, and the greening of urban life. More than just a memorable event, Earth Hour 2025 has set the momentum for continued environmental action and inspired individuals and organizations to work towards a sustainable future.