Vietnam Tackles Littering: Rewards for Informants, Stricter Enforcement Proposed

Ho Chi Minh City resident Nguyen Hoang Tan advocates for a system that publicly acknowledges and rewards individuals who report instances of illegal dumping. He frequently observes people littering public spaces, even when trash bins are nearby, and notes that others discard bulky items like old mattresses and furniture at roadsides to avoid disposal fees.

Tan recounts that attempts to remind offenders are often met with hostility, including verbal abuse and threats. While he has considered reporting these acts to authorities, he has hesitated due to various concerns. To combat public apathy towards littering, Tan suggests that authorities should establish clear incentives, such as public recognition or monetary rewards, for citizens providing information and evidence of improper waste disposal.

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To make the encouragement more effective, the reward amount for cases of reporting and being processed can be clearly defined, possibly calculated as a percentage of the fine amount.

To enhance the effectiveness of these incentives, Tan proposes that reward amounts be clearly defined, possibly as a percentage of the fine imposed on the offender. He also recommends that local People's Committees publicize contact numbers and Zalo accounts for receiving reports and visual evidence. Posting information about reward amounts and reporting contacts in areas prone to illegal dumping could further deter such behavior. Crucially, Tan emphasizes the need to protect the identities of informants to prevent harassment or retaliation.

Nguyen Hoa Lan, Deputy Chairman of the Binh Hung Commune People's Committee in Ho Chi Minh City, confirmed that their locality has already implemented a reward system for reporting littering. In December 2025, local leaders identified individuals dumping waste into the Ben canal and reported them to the economic department for administrative violation procedures. These individuals received surprise commendations from the Commune People's Committee. Lan stated that any resident providing information on improper waste disposal will be rewarded, especially if the report includes specific details like vehicle license plates or photographic/video evidence that aids in verification. The committee will then summon the offenders for processing, ensuring absolute confidentiality for the informant to prevent any trouble.

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Any citizen who provides information about cases of improper waste disposal will also be rewarded.