アジア地域における持続可能な消費・ライフスタイルの転換

―タイ・ベトナムの事例から―

抄録

The global consumption of natural resources has significantly increased over the past decades, driven by economic growth and population expansion. Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP) aims to address environmental challenges stemming from mass production and consumption by promoting policies such as cleaner production, green public procurement, and the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) . As environmental concerns have intensified, SCP has gained global recognition, with key milestones including the 1992 Rio Summit, the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the Paris Agreement. This paper reviews the historical development of SCP policies and international discussions. Furthermore, it presents case studies from Thailand and Vietnam, analyzing the current state and challenges of SCP implementation in Asia. Thailand’s approach is heavily influenced by the “Sufficiency Economy Philosophy” (SEP), introduced by King Bhumibol Adulyadej, which promotes moderation, resilience, and sustainability, while Vietnam is incorporating SCP elements into its state-led development plans. Both countries have introduced policy tools such as energy efficiency labels, but there are differences in their awareness and effectiveness. Changes in the values and behavior patterns of young people in both countries could be a turning point in consumption patterns. Finally, this study discusses policy directions for advancing SCP in developing countries to ensure long-term sustainability. Several key directions for promoting SCP in developing countries were pointed out: (1) cultural and traditional values can provide important foundations for sustainable practices when integrated into policy frameworks; (2) technological innovations, particularly digital solutions, offer opportunities to leapfrog conventional development pathways; and (3) circular economy approaches can be strategies that can simultaneously address economic development and environmental sustainability goals in the developing countries context.