WB finances wastewater treatment improvement in Binh Duong

This initiative is set to significantly improve water quality and wastewater treatment for over half a million residents in southern Viet Nam.

With a total investment of US$311 million, of which US$231 million is financed by the WB, the project is designed to transform wastewater management in Thuan An, Di An, and Tan Uyen cities of Viet Nam's Binh Duong southern province, covering an area of more than 33,000 hectares, with a total population of around 1.4 million.

Currently, these areas have limited sewage collection and treatment capabilities, with coverage critically low. The investment will substantially expand these services, directly benefiting approximately 550,000 residents by 2032.

The project will increase wastewater services from under 10-32 percent in Tan Uyen City, and from 17-19 percent to 45 percent in Thuan An and Di An Cities. This targeted improvement in high-density urban areas is crucial for reducing pollution in the Sai Gon and Dong Nai River systems.

The engineering designs incorporate future climate scenarios, ensuring that the infrastructure is resilient and sustainable in the long term. This includes selecting technical solutions that are energy-efficient and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Furthermore, the project integrates principles of the circular economy, which means it focuses on resource efficiency and sustainability. For instance, the use of LED lighting and solar panels will reduce energy consumption, while the innovative reuse of treated sludge and wastewater will contribute to a more sustainable management of resources.

The remaining sum of US$80 million for the project comes from the Government of Viet Nam's budget.

Across Viet Nam, challenges like untreated wastewater and inadequate drainage harm health and risk reducing GDP by 3.5 percent annually by 2035, said Carolyn Turk, WB Country Director for Viet Nam.

This project is an important step in creating a cleaner, healthier environment in Binh Duong province, contributing to sustainable growth and development, she added./.