Did you know that Vietnam lost over 80% of its mangrove forests since the 1950s? Today, we’re excited to share how this trend is being reversed through ambitious restoration projects!
The Mekong Delta provinces have designated an impressive 91,000 hectares for mangrove restoration and afforestation for the 2021-2025 period, creating natural barriers against climate impacts while supporting local communities.
These restoration efforts are already showing remarkable results – in some areas, restored mangroves have reduced storm surge wave heights from 4 meters down to just 0.5 meters along sea dikes, saving approximately $7.3 million annually in maintenance costs.
Beyond coastal protection, these projects are transforming local economies. In communities with successful mangrove restoration, aquaculture product yields have increased by more than 200%, providing sustainable livelihoods for hundreds of families who depend on these ecosystems.
What makes Vietnam’s approach special is the combination of government policies, community involvement, and international partnerships. Local residents aren’t just beneficiaries – they’re active participants in planting and managing these critical coastal forests.
As Vietnam works toward its net-zero emission target by 2050, these mangrove forests will play a crucial role by sequestering more carbon per unit area than tropical rainforests while protecting vulnerable coastal communities.
This is environmental innovation that truly delivers triple benefits: climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and community development!
Learn more:
🔗 https://ndcpartnership.org/knowledge-portal/good-practice-database/restoration-mangrove-forests-vietnam
🔗 https://iucn.org/news/202310/iucn-and-hyundai-motor-company-collaborate-mangrove-restoration-mekong-delta-viet-nam