In the context of increasing environmental pollution, the use of recycled materials is a groundbreaking solution that helps reduce plastic waste. This article will explore the potential and opportunities for transforming the environmental industry through this initiative.

1.The Reality of ‘White Pollution’ in Vietnam
White pollution refers to environmental pollution caused by nylon bags and plastic waste, which severely impacts the environment and human health. Currently, white pollution is reaching alarming levels in Vietnam.
According to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Vietnam generates approximately 1.8 million tons of plastic waste annually, of which 0.28-0.73 million tons end up in the ocean, but only 27% is recycled. Managing plastic waste faces significant challenges, with 90% being buried or incinerated and only 10% being recycled.
The Department of Environmental Pollution Control has warned that Vietnam is facing a major threat from plastic waste, with each household using an average of 1kg of plastic bags per month. In Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, about 80 tons of plastic waste are generated daily. (1)
This serves as an alarming wake-up call, as the environment continues to bear the consequences of plastic waste’s destructive impact.
2.The Trend of Using Recycled Products
Recycled plastic products are gradually becoming a global trend. The EU has introduced several regulations and practical measures to transform plastic waste into recycled products.

2.1. EU Regulations on Packaging/Waste Management (2)
Objectives of The Packaging Directive:
The Packaging Directive aims to harmonize national measures related to packaging and packaging waste management, ensuring optimal environmental protection while maintaining the efficient functioning of the internal market.
The latest amendments to the directive introduce updated measures aimed at reducing packaging waste generation and promoting reuse, recycling, and other recovery methods for packaging waste, rather than focusing solely on end-of-life disposal.
Notably, under the new regulations, by the end of 2024, EU member states must ensure the implementation of extended producer responsibility (EPR) programs for all types of packaging.
Recycling Targets in The EU:
The recycling target for plastics is set at 25% by 2024, with an anticipated increase to 50% by 2025 and 55% by 2030. These ambitious goals highlight significant growth in plastic recycling efforts in the coming years, aiming to enhance recycling efficiency and reduce the volume of plastic waste released into the environment.
2.2. Transforming Plastic Waste into Consumer Goods
According to the European Plastics Association, in 2021, around 30% of plastic waste in Europe was recycled into valuable products such as apparel, household items, and construction materials. This approach not only offers a sustainable solution but also generates economic value from waste management.
To minimize the use of plastic bags, many European countries have implemented small fees on lightweight plastic bags. Additionally, instead of using traditional plastic bags, many European supermarkets have switched to shopping bags made from recycled plastic, reducing the consumption of single-use plastic bags.
Recognizing this trend, with over 20 years of experience, Mekong J.S.C. has established itself as one of the leading providers of recycled plastic packaging in Vietnam. Mekong is also a trusted long-term partner of many major supermarket chains in Europe.

We offer a wide range of standout products, including shopping bags, cooler bags, collapsible box bags, wine bags, ultrasonic bags, and rice packaging. All of our products are 100% environmentally friendly and fully recyclable, reflecting our commitment to sustainability.
3.Benefits of Using Recycled Plastic Packaging
Using recycled plastic packaging offers numerous benefits not only for the environment but also for human daily life. Mekong is pleased to provide some of the key advantages including:
- Reducing waste: Recycled plastic packaging helps decrease the amount of plastic waste released into the environment, contributing to ecosystem protection and reducing environmental pollution.
- Promoting sustainable consumption habits: The use of recycled packaging encourages consumers to adopt eco-friendly habits and choose sustainable products, fostering the growth of a sustainable consumer community.
- Enhancing aesthetics and convenience: Recycled plastic packaging is not only environmentally friendly but also visually appealing and convenient to use, providing consumers with satisfaction and practicality.

The development and adoption of products made from plastic waste represent a significant step forward in mitigating environmental pollution while unlocking new opportunities for the environmental industry.
This sustainable solution contributes to building a greener and cleaner future for generations to come. For more details, please visit our website: http://mekoplastic.vn/
- VnEconomy, 2024, “Mỗi năm Việt Nam thải ra môi trường 1,8 triệu tấn rác thải nhựa”. Reference to: https://vneconomy.vn/moi-nam-viet-nam-thai-ra-moi-truong-1-8-trieu-tan-rac-thai-nhua.htm
- European Commission, 2024, “Packaging waste”. Reference to: https://environment.ec.europa.eu/topics/waste-and-recycling/packaging-waste_en