It is thought that companies and individuals should pay for the damage they cause, and the governmental bodies should not take on this responsibility. While there are arguments against this opinion, I agree that polluters should be held financially accountable.
It is true there are some circumstances where the government should be responsible for pollution cleanup. This is because pollution often poses immediate risks to public health, necessitating (cần) government intervention. For example, high levels of air pollution are linked to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems and other serious health complications. Because of the severe air pollution issues in Hanoi in 2019, the Vietnamese authorities had to implement an emergency plan including banning certain vehicles from some roads, encouraging the use of public transport and promoting electric vehicles. In such cases, the government must act swiftly to protect citizens, regardless of who caused the pollution.
Nevertheless, I believe holding companies and individuals accountable fosters a sense of responsibility. When businesses understand they must finance the environmental damage they create, they are more likely to adopt eco-friendly practices. For instance, the automotive industry has seen an increase in electric vehicle production as manufacturers respond to consumer demand for greener options. By enforcing the principle that polluters pay, governments can incentivize innovation and investment in sustainable alternatives. Regarding individuals, if they face financial consequences for pollution, they are more likely to maintain sustainable practices, such as recycling, reducing waste, and using public transportation. This shift can lead to a collective reduction in pollution.
Furthermore, when the government intervenes to clean up pollution, the financial burden often falls on taxpayers. Public funds are diverted from essential services like education and healthcare, creating a sense of injustice among citizens who adhere to environmental regulations.
In conclusion, although sometimes the government should bear the costs of environmental protection, I believe that companies and individuals who contribute to pollution must do this for the aforementioned reasons.