Abstract—The process of classification and storage of
domestic or Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) is essential in
domestic solid waste management because this process
determines the method of treatment of this kind of waste. In
Viet Nam, according to the Law on Environmental Protection
2020, MSW generated by households and individuals is
classified into three groups, and the regulations must be
implemented by December 31, 2024. However, the practice of
classification and storage of MSW in Vietnam still faces
difficulties and shortcomings because of economic-financial
conditions, cultural issues, habits, and awareness of the public.
The study examines the existing regulations and practices of
MSW classification and storage in Viet Nam and compares
them with Japan's experience in several aspects. Taking Ho Chi
Minh City's practice as a representative of MSW management
in Viet Nam, the study conducted a survey with 419 respondents
from July 17–22, 2025, using online means. Combined with legal
description and analysis, the research findings show a
substantial gap between the government's expectations and the
current practice on the matter at issue. Such a divergence seems
to persist for a great deal of time if local governments do not
handle the matter practically, seriously taking the public
awareness into account as a fundamental step. In addition,
paying sufficient investments in facilities necessary for MSW
classification and storage is a further step towards sustainable
MSW management.
Keywords—municipal solid waste management,
environmental protection, sustainable development, Viet Nam
Cite: Anh Nguyen Thi, Hoc Duong Van, and Truc Vo Thanh, "Classification and Storage of Municipal Solid Waste in Viet Nam: Evidence of Gaps between Regulations and Practice," International Journal of Environmental Science and Development vol. 17, no. 2, pp. 176-184, 2026.
Copyright © 2026 by the authors. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited (CC BY 4.0).