Phu Quoc Island City off Kien Giang Province in southern Vietnam has officially inaugurated six surveillance cameras, implementing fines up to VND2 million (US$82) for individuals caught improperly disposing of trash.

The People’s Committee of Phu Quoc City, in collaboration with the World Wide Fund for Nature-Vietnam, unveiled the surveillance camera initiative in Duong Dong Ward on Saturday, in response to Phu Quoc Environmental Day in December.

Doan Van Tien, deputy chairman of the Phu Quoc People’s Committee, emphasized the island’s commitment to upscale resort tourism, placing significant emphasis on waste management and the preservation of a green, clean, and attractive environment for tourists.

Six surveillance cameras were strategically installed in key areas such as the old airport zone, the new international airport, markets, and the Duong Dong River to deter improper disposal of household waste. 

Violators will face fines ranging from VND100,000 ($4) to VND2 million for leaving trash in unauthorized locations, and from VND2 million to VND1 billion ($41,169) for the illegal burial of solid waste.

Residents exchange household waste for children's books in Phu Quoc Island City off Kien Giang Province in southern Vietnam. Photo: C.Cong / Tuoi Tre

Tien urged collective efforts from the community, businesses, residents, and tourists to safeguard the marine environment and the overall beauty of Phu Quoc, which is grappling with the waste generation of around 170-180 metric tons a day. 

The local authorities aspire to reduce plastic consumption and promote responsible waste disposal practices.

In conjunction with these efforts, Phu Quoc City organized an initiative to exchange plastic waste for useful gifts. 

Participants can bring one kilogram of household waste, dried and sorted, to receive gifts such as small plants, fish sauce, food containers, bamboo cups, thermos flasks, and diving goggles for fishermen.

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