Adopting ESG (environmental, social, and governance) practices is a long-term commitment, but small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Vietnam often face significant hurdles due to limited capital, workforce constraints, and a lack of strategic direction. To address these challenges, many SMEs focus on maximizing available resources, prioritizing key investments, and leveraging their core strengths. The Ministry of Planning and Investment reports that approximately 4,000 Vietnamese businesses are transitioning to sustainable development models with support from international organizations. However, this represents only a small portion of the overall need, as nearly one million businesses across the country require assistance to embrace green transformation practices. Turning challenges into advantages In Ben Tre Province, famously known as the land of coconuts, the journey into green tourism begins at the pier. Each guest is provided with a small notebook, a pencil, and a “net zero passport.” The tour guide explains how to record emissions from each product and activity in the notebook, along with plans to offset them. As the tide shifts, boats glide through coconut groves and mangrove-lined riverbanks, offering visitors a glimpse into the tranquil rhythm of local life. The tides here change direction four times a day, with each cycle lasting […]