This research aims to conduct a comprehensive vulnerability analysis of environmental hazards and risks faced by low-income and marginalized communities in the Red River Delta area. By integrating an environmental risk assessment and socio-economic vulnerability assessments, the study seeks to uncover the disproportionate exposure of these communities to environmental burdens. Additionally, it intends to critically evaluate existing environmental justice policies and frameworks, identifying gaps between their intended equity objectives and the ground realities faced by vulnerable populations. Ultimately, the research aims to develop a contextualized and holistic framework that incorporates vulnerability index, and policy analysis findings, serving as a guiding tool for stakeholders to effectively address environmental inequalities and promote environmental justice in the region.

1. Environmental Risk Assessment:

• Identify and assess the types and levels of environmental hazards present in low-income communities, such as air pollution, water contamination, and exposure to toxic substances.
• Evaluate the potential health risks and environmental impacts associated with these hazards.
• Determine the sources and pathways of exposure to these hazards within the communities.

2. Vulnerability Assessment:

• Develop a comprehensive framework to assess the socio-economic, demographic, and environmental factors contributing to the vulnerability of communities.
• Design a questionnaire to collect data from affected communities on relevant indicators, such as population, income, poverty levels, exposure to environmental risks, health indicators, access to basic services and adaptive capacity, etc.
• Analyze the data to determine significant factors causing vulnerabilities in underprivileged communities by employing quantitative and qualitative methods.
• Identify hotspots of high vulnerability and prioritize areas for intervention.

3. Policy Evaluation and Framework Development:

• Critically evaluate existing policies and frameworks related to environmental justice and equity in the context of Red River Delta area.
• Identify gaps between policy objectives and the real situation on the ground, as revealed by the risk assessment and vulnerability assessment.
• Develop a comprehensive and context-specific framework that integrates the research findings to address environmental inequalities effectively.
• Provide recommendations for policy reforms, community engagement strategies, and targeted interventions to mitigate environmental hazards and enhance community resilience.