Assessing the effectiveness of environmental protection work in An Giang province in 2024: Achievements, challenges and orientations for sustainable development

This study evaluates the effectiveness of environmental protection efforts in An Giang Province, Vietnam, in 2024, focusing on key areas such as air and water quality, waste management, biodiversity conservation, and policy implementation. The findings reveal that air quality in the province remained relatively good, with most parameters meeting national standards, although localized pollution was observed in urban and industrial areas. Surface water quality, however, faced significant challenges, with increased pollution levels in areas affected by tourism and aquaculture activities. The province's two natural heritage sites, Tra Su and Tan Tuyen Melaleuca Forests, demonstrated successful biodiversity conservation efforts, hosting numerous rare and endangered species. Waste management improved slightly, with 78.66% of solid waste collected and treated, yet the reliance on landfilling and inadequate wastewater treatment infrastructure highlighted ongoing challenges. Strengths included enhanced air quality monitoring, community engagement, and policy support, while weaknesses centered on limited financial resources and insufficient environmental infrastructure. Key opportunities lie in adopting advanced technologies and leveraging national policies for sustainable development, whereas threats include climate change impacts and rapid industrial expansion. The study concludes with recommendations for improving wastewater treatment, transitioning to advanced waste management technologies, strengthening climate adaptation measures, and promoting green economic practices. These efforts are essential for achieving sustainable environmental management in An Giang Province, balancing economic growth with ecological preservation.