Da Nang women swap used oil for fresh vegetables in eco-friendly drive
DNO - In Da Nang, Vietnam, there is a project that invites residents to swap used oil for fresh vegetables, turning everyday kitchen waste into a community-driven solution to fight pollution and promote sustainability.
This is a simple yet powerful initiative is reshaping household habits and protecting the environment.
At the end of August 2025, the Hoa Cuong Ward Women’s Union launched the expansion of its ‘Used cooking oil for vegetables’ model across the community.
Residents bring bottles of oil left over from frying and, in return, receive fresh produce such as morning glory and mustard greens.
The programme not only reduces improper disposal but also raises awareness about the environmental damage caused by dumping oil into drains and waterways.
“The moment I learned about the harmful impact of pouring oil into the sewage system, I started saving it after cooking and bringing it here to exchange for vegetables,” said local resident Nguyen Thu Ha, who brought nearly 3 liters to the event.
According to ward authorities, the programme originated in 2022 and has now grown into a quarterly community drive. With the motto “Every drop of waste oil - A green action,” the initiative collected 190 liters of used oil during its latest exchange.
The oil is sold to recycling facilities that process it into fuel, while proceeds are reinvested to purchase vegetables and plants for future swaps.
The model has also proven effective in Son Tra Ward where the authorities launched a collection scheme in 2023 after noticing frequent sewage blockages linked to used oil disposal.
Within 6 months of 2025, the programme there gathered nearly 200 kilograms of waste oil, generating funds to support local social welfare activities.
By converting waste into resources, Da Nang’s women-led initiatives highlight how small, community-driven actions can yield outsized benefits for public health, environmental protection and social well-being.