The event, the first of its kind in Vietnam - is a joint initiative by the Centre for Combating Climate Change and the Science and Life newspaper and will now be annual event.

It aims to raise awareness among the community of the adverse impacts of plastic bags on human health and the environment and encourage people to stop using plastic bags.

The event, supported by various Vietnamese ministries, and agencies, the Finish Embassy and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), includes a number of activities to encourage a plastic-bag-free lifestyle.

During the day, 100 stores on Le Loi street promised not to use plastic bags, their customers were encouraged to bring along bags of their own or were provided with environmentally-friendly bags for free.

Plastic bags were collected and exchanged for environmentally-friendly bags, made of sedge (a natural fibre) or paper. A bicycle parade was also held with many of the volunteers, students and tourists taking part.
In addition, a gala was held in the evening to award individuals and groups who took an active part in the event.