WHAT SHAPES YOUNG PEOPLE’S CONCERNS ABOUT WATER-USE RESOURCES? THE CASE OF HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM

The climate is changing and, accordingly, changes in water quality, quantity and availability for human and other uses are observed and projected. Despite recent advances in climate research, great uncertainty remains concerning how and when the climate will change and how these changes will affect the supply and demand for water. Beside climate-induced uncertainties, rapid urbanization is one among other socio-economic and political factors that influence water supply and demand. Since the public are the primary beneficiary of water supplies and the first to experience the consequences of water quality and quantity degradation, relevant water-related information from the ground is crucial for decision-making regarding water use. In addition, young people play an important role in development as they are identified as one of the major stakeholders, with the right and responsibility to participate in decision-making for sustainable development. Through an online survey using Qualtrics, conducted in a rural–urban transition area in District 7, Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), targeting young people living and studying in this district, this study focused on understanding two dimensions of young people’s concerns about recent water quality and quantity changes in urban and peri-urban areas: perceived climate risks and experienced urbanization impacts. The research findings showed that although young Vietnamese people believe in climate change and the climate risks that affect water availability, they are more concerned about inadequate water management policies and the health risks associated with water pollution resulting from unsustainable urban development. The result implies that governmental institutions need to be more aware of water quality issues and develop appropriate policies for water-use resource management within the context of climate change and rapid urbanization. In addition, the engagement of youth participation in public policy should be enhanced in order to promote active citizenship and the empowerment of future generations in order to engage them in sustainable development governance.