On 15 June 2026, Mekong Eye reported on the impacts of pollution from wood pellet manufacturing facilities owned by Tin Nhan Co, Ltd in Vietnam, which supply bioenergy to major corporations in Japan and South Korea. The media report reveals the environmental and social impacts of Vietnam's booming wood pellet industry, alleging that the renewable energy demands of Japan and South Korea have created pollution, health risks, and environmental injustice for communities living near pellet factories. Residents living near wood pellet manufacturing facilities allege they suffer from continual noise and air pollution due to the dust being produced by the facilities. Residents also report higher rates of respiratory diseases and other health concerns linked to the pollution.

Alleged companies involved in the allegations include Asia Creative Energy, Itochu, Mitsui, Shinhung Global, Samsung C&T, SGC Energy, Hyundai LIVART, Kon Tum Green Energy, An Viet Phat, Ayo Biomass, Sumitomo Corporation, Hanwa, Enviva, and Pinnacle Renewable acquired by Drax.

In July, Business and Human Rights Centre invited Asia Creative Energy, Itochu, Mitsui, Shinhung Global, Samsung C&T, SGC Energy, Hyundai LIVART, Kon Tum Green Energy, An Viet Phat, Sumitomo Corporation, Enviva, and Pinnacle Renewable acquired by Drax to respond. Asia Creative Group responded while Sumitomo is preparing its response to be submitted to us by 31 July. The rest did not respond. If companies wish to provide responses, the story page will be updated accordingly.