Photo exhibition raises awareness of climate change

In light of the 21^st Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 21), to be held in Paris in just a few days, a photo exhibition themed “60 solutions to climate change” was launched on Tuesday in Hanoi. Hosted by the French Development Agency (AFD), the exhibition aims to raise public awareness about climate change in Vietnam and the world.

Putting garbage to good use, fighting air pollution, or taking better care of drinking water… These are some of the messages conveyed by the photo exhibition “60 solutions to climate change”. 21 photos at the event reflect the consequences of climate change, as well as measures for ensuring environmentally sound development.

"After attending this exhibition, people will be more aware of climate change and will take actions against it." - Nguyen Minh Tuan, Exhibition goer.

"I realized that climate change urgently requires individuals and nations to enhance their awareness of environmental protection." - Mai Thi Thom, Exhibition goer.

As one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, Vietnam has received increasing assistance from the international community in climate change mitigation. The French Development Agency (AFD) is an important partner for Vietnam. For 20 years, the AFD has funded nearly 40 projects benefitting both the economy and environment.

"The AFD has supported Vietnam with ODA for major irrigation projects in the Southeastern Region and Red River Delta. This has been very helpful for us. The AFD also provides technical support, such as water resource management." - Hoang Van Thang, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Agriculture & Rural Development.

"We are pleased with Vietnam’s cooperation, especially the cooperation of the Ministry of Agriculture in climate change mitigation. We think that Vietnam has every condition for contributing to COP 21." - Remi Genevey, Director, AFD in Vietnam.

As part of the exhibition, a film screening and discussion on the topic of natural disasters in rural areas was also held. Experts say that with its 3,000-km-long coast and two large deltas, Vietnam faces serious threats from climate change; particularly, the country’s efforts in poverty eradication and economic development.