Green Talks #20: Lukasz Kozlowski discusses Vietnam’s growing awareness of Sustainable Tourism

Having lived and worked in Vietnam for over 9 years, Lukasz has witnessed significant shifts in the country’s sustainability mindset. While efforts were already in motion before the pandemic, COVID-19 put many initiatives on hold. Since reopening in 2022, Vietnam’s tourism industry has rebounded rapidly, bringing sustainability back into focus.

“Sustainable development is becoming increasingly important, not just in Vietnam but across Southeast Asia. The focus has grown even more after the post-COVID-19 tourism boom.” – Lukasz Kozlowski.

Tourism is booming, with 17 million international visitors in 2024 and over 100 million domestic trips recorded. This rapid growth, however, puts immense pressure on natural resources, waste management, and local infrastructure. Large-scale projects like the Long Thanh International Airport and expanding resort developments across Quy Nhon, Tuy Hoa, and Sapa highlight both the opportunities and challenges of sustainable tourism.

Sustainability efforts are being driven at multiple levels. The Vietnamese government is introducing regulations to cut plastic use and promote green initiatives, but effective enforcement remains key. Lukasz emphasized businesses like MakeYourAsia play a critical role in bridging the gap between travelers, local communities, and industry partners to drive practical solutions.

As an active member of the EUROCHAM Tourism & Hospitality Sector Committee, we collaborate with policymakers, discuss sustainable tourism strategies, and contribute to initiatives like EUROCHAM’s annual “White Book”, which outlines recommendations for responsible travel development.

“Local authorities are increasingly open to dialogue, which is a big step forward.” – Lukasz Kozlowski.

When Grazyna asked, "Are tourists interested in responsible travel? Do they bring it up themselves?", Lukasz stated that more and more travelers today are prioritizing sustainability in their travel choices. At MakeYourAsia, we’ve noticed a significant increase in clients asking about eco-friendly hotels, sustainable travel programs, and ethical tourism practices. Many want to know whether accommodations meet environmental standards or if tours include responsible elements. There is also a growing awareness about animal welfare, with travelers specifically inquiring about whether attractions involve animal exploitation. This shift in traveler expectations is encouraging, as it pushes the industry towards more ethical and sustainable practices.

At the end of the interview, Lukasz shared MakeYourAsia’s vision for the future, emphasizing the company’s commitment to eco-friendly travel solutions and obtaining sustainability certifications. He highlighted the importance of innovation in sustainable tourism, ensuring that responsible travel does not compromise comfort or quality. Strengthening collaborations with local communities is also a key focus, creating programs that support regional development while preserving local culture. With a growing demand for impactful travel experiences, MakeYourAsia aims to offer meaningful, sustainable journeys that go beyond sightseeing, leaving a lasting positive impact on both travelers and destinations.

You can read the full interview from Green Talks #20 here: https://sitepoland.com/green-talks-20-vietnam-awareness-of-sustainable-tourism-is-growing/