Conceptual Framework for Advancing Environmental Sustainability Through Youth Engagement and Green Learning Initiatives in Vietnam

Abstract

Environmental sustainability in Vietnam has become an increasingly critical concern amid rapid industrialization, urban expansion, and the escalating impacts of climate change. This review develops a conceptual framework that links youth engagement, green learning initiatives, and sustainable development goals (SDGs) within the Vietnamese context. It explores how participatory education, eco-literacy programs, and community-driven projects can enhance environmental stewardship among young people. The paper synthesizes findings from environmental education, behavioral change theory, and sustainable policy implementation to highlight key pathways through which youth-driven initiatives can influence environmental outcomes. Furthermore, it evaluates institutional, cultural, and policy enablers that shape Vietnam’s transition toward a green economy. The proposed framework emphasizes the integration of formal and informal green education systems, digital innovation, and social inclusion to cultivate long-term environmental responsibility. The study concludes by identifying best practices and policy recommendations for strengthening Vietnam’s national strategy on youth participation and sustainable education to align with the United Nations’ Agenda 2030.