(seafood.vasep.com.vn) Hanoi, June 25, 2025, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment hosted the closing ceremony and awards event for the 2025 Plastic Innovation Programme.
Launched on February 26, 2025, the programme received 116 innovation proposals from across the country. After a thorough selection process, 25 outstanding teams were chosen to participate in an intensive incubation phase. Following the final pitch round, 12 teams were selected to receive financial support and move forward to the acceleration phase. Among them, six winning teams received grants of up to USD 30,000 each, while the other six teams were awarded USD 10,000 each.
By developing a biodegradable, antibacterial fruit wrap made from shrimp shells and rice straw, Vietnam Food Joint Stock Company (VNF) proudly secured the First Prize and a grant of USD 30,000 in the 2025 UNDP Plastic Innovation Programme.
Out of the 116 nationwide proposals, only six top prizes were awarded — with VNF honored as the top winner. The company will now enter a 9-month acceleration phase to pilot and implement their solution in real-world settings.
VNF extends its heartfelt thanks to UNDP in Viet Nam, the Ministry of Agriculture & Environment, the UNPDF Fund, and the Coca-Cola Foundation for supporting local innovation and sustainable green solutions.
The Plastic Innovation Programme was designed and implemented based on the achievements of previous initiatives, including the Plastic Waste Reduction Innovation Challenge (2021) and the ASEAN Green Innovation Challenge (2024). Coordinated through the National Plastic Action Partnership (NPAP) platform, the program directly contributes to Vietnam’s national strategies, such as Decree 57 on science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation — reinforcing the country’s momentum toward a circular economy.
By promoting innovative business models, improving waste sorting, collection, and recycling, and exploring smarter financial tools and governance mechanisms, the programme aims to reduce plastic leakage, protect marine ecosystems, and foster sustainable development across Vietnam.