In the mountainous province of Son La, women’s unions have launched an initiative called the “Green House for Charity Fundraising” which has quickly gained widespread support both from members and local residents. The project collects and sells scrap materials, with the proceeds going toward a charity fund that assists locals facing hardships.
Women gather at the "Green House" to collect recyclable plastic waste and scrap materials. (Photo: Bich Thuy/VOV)
For nearly two years, the residents of residential area 4 in Quyet Thang Ward, Son La City, have gathered on the last Sunday of each month. They bring plastic waste like bottles and jars, along with recyclable materials like metal and rubber, to the “Green House.”
Hoang Minh Viet, a local resident, said that collecting plastic waste to raise charity funds for the poor is a meaningful activity, which is why everyone eagerly participates. "Plastic waste harms the environment, so the women's collection efforts are practical and important. My family collects and sends plastic waste to them."
Pham Thi Thinh, head of the Women's Union of residential area 4 said that the “Green House” was set up at the end of 2022. On the last Sunday of each month, women come together to sort plastic waste and sell scrap materials. So far, they have collected about 10 tons of plastic waste and raised around 400 USD for charity.
"We strive to improve the model and invite more women to join us. This helps keep our environment clean and supports those in need," said Thinh.
Beginning with 10 pilot models and nearly 400 members, “Green House for Charity Fundraising” has now been expanded to 68 more locations across Son La province, involving over 2,700 members. Each month, these models collect and sort large amounts of plastic waste and recyclable materials, earning between 12 and 20 USD each.
"We will continue to teach local residents how to reduce plastic waste. We aim to replicate successful models and promote the 'Green House' initiative throughout the province," Vi Thi Binh, Vice Chairwoman of the provincial Women’s Union, said.
According to the provincial Department of Natural Resources and Environment, more than 10,000 tons of plastic waste are generated in Son La each year, with nearly 8,400 tons collected.
In addition to the “Green House for Charity Fundraising,” the province has launched initiatives like exchanging paper, plastic, and cans for trees; the People's Market to reduce plastic waste; and creating toys and souvenirs from cans and plastic bottles. Many organizations and businesses have also switched from plastic bottled water to glass and paper bottles, helping to reduce the use of hard-to-decompose plastic bags.
Thieu Quang Phi Hung, Deputy Head of the Environment Management Section, said that these models help raise awareness of preventing plastic waste pollution and encourage people to stop using disposable plastic products. "They also promote habits of collecting, sorting, reusing, and recycling plastic waste in communities," he added.
Improperly managed plastic waste pollutes the environment and harms human health. Everyone can help prevent plastic waste pollution through small actions.
