Vietnam’s government has set out a green initiative in an effort to help cut greenhouse gas emissions.

The Green Growth strategy, announced by the nation’s Prime Minister, sets out environmental targets for the country between now and 2020. Reports claim the nation aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by around 8-10% compared to the levels recorded in 2010.

The Government’s plans include the nation being more energy efficient by cutting energy usage in transport and industrial activities. It also aims to cut its dependence on fossil fuels by increasing the use of renewables.

Nguyan Van Tai, Director of the Institute of Strategy and Policy on Natural Resources and Environment said although Vietnam has seen an increase in greenhouse emissions in the last few decades, they are still low compared to other developed countries.

According to estimates, Vietnam emits around 1.9 tonnes of carbon every year, compared to 0.3 tonnes in 1990. This figure is expected to reach around 5 tonnes by 2030.

Reports claim Vietnam is the first developing country in the Asia-Pacific region to independently create its own green strategy with the aim of switching to a low carbon economy.