Promoting actions for agroecological transformation in Mekong Delta

Toward Net-Zero emissions by 2050

On October 6 in Cao Lanh Ward, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, in collaboration with the People’s Committee of Dong Thap Province, organized the conference "Promoting agroecology and food system transformation to address climate change, enhance biodiversity and improve livelihoods". The event was supported by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

Sharing his message at the conference, National Assembly Vice Chairman Le Minh Hoan emphasized that agroecology is not merely a farming method; it is a way of listening to and respecting nature. It represents a long-term vision for Vietnam to fulfill its global commitments on climate change, move toward net-zero emissions by 2050, and grow a sustainable future for generations.

From a local perspective, Vice Chairman of the Dong Thap Provincial People’s Committee Nguyen Thanh Dieu affirmed that developing agroecology is an inevitable path toward a sustainable agricultural sector, which balances economic benefits with environmental protection.

He emphasized that Dong Thap is making a strong shift from “agricultural production” to an “agricultural economy,” placing farmers at the center, cooperatives and enterprises as pillars, and science and technology as key drivers. According to Mr. Dieu, the province is focusing on promoting circular agriculture models that use land and water resources efficiently while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. At the same time, the application of science and technology, particularly digital technology, is considered the key to enhancing the value of Dong Thap’s agriculture.

Smart farming models, water-saving irrigation systems, digital transformation in crop area management, product traceability, and market connectivity are being expanded across the province.

Mr. Dieu also reaffirmed that Dong Thap will continue to accompany farmers and businesses, creating favorable conditions to scale up sustainable and environmentally friendly farming models. The province aims to ensure both food security and higher incomes for its people, contributing to building Dong Thap’s image as a pioneer in agroecological transformation, where science and technology are closely linked with rural production and everyday life.

Agroecology opens a powerful new approach

According to IPCC, by 2023 projections indicate that about 40% of the Mekong Delta could be submerged if sea levels rise by one meter, threatening the livelihoods of more than 17 million people. The intertwined challenges facing today’s food systems, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and food insecurity, can only be effectively addressed through collaborative, multi-stakeholder action.

Agroecology offers a powerful and holistic approach that integrates indigenous knowledge with modern science and ecological principles, contributing to the transformation of food systems toward greater resilience, sustainability, and equity. This conference represents a concrete step in realizing Vietnam’s international commitments: from the net-zero emission target announced at COP26 to the Declaration on Sustainable Agriculture at COP28, reaffirming the country’s determination to build a transparent, responsible, and sustainable food system.

The event brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from the Government, international organizations, cooperatives, farmers, businesses, and associations, to discuss and commit to collective action for a sustainable, multi-value agricultural sector capable of withstanding the challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, and global ecological imbalance. Based on diverse and in-depth stakeholder feedback, the conference provides a meaningful foundation for aligning vision and action, effectively turning theoretical commitments into practical, on-the-ground outcomes.

The panel discussion is expected to help strengthen the development of transparent and well-connected value chains, ensuring that farmers remain at the center of the transformation process. This will enable Vietnam’s agriculture to grow sustainably, adapt effectively to climate change, and enhance its overall value.

The conference also takes place at a special time, as FAO celebrates 80 years of global action for food security and WWF marks 30 years of biodiversity conservation in Vietnam. The theme of World Food Day 2025: "Water is Life, Water is Food. Leave No One Behind" deeply resonates with the goals of this conference. Both organizations reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the Government of Vietnam in building a sustainable future for both people and nature.

Mr. Vinod Ahuja, FAO Representative in Vietnam, emphasized that this event marks an important milestone in our collective journey toward building sustainable and resilient food systems in Vietnam. In particular, the multistakeholder dialogue demonstrates our shared commitment to translating policy into concrete action. By fostering stronger public–private partnerships and mobilizing resources, we can build on the nation’s achievements and ensure that Vietnam’s agricultural sector is well-equipped to cope with the impacts of climate change, paving the way for a better future for all.

Mr. Thibault Ledecq, Conservation Director of WWF-Vietnam, stated that WWF-Vietnam believes food production should not only meet human needs but also drive conservation efforts. By prioritizing sustainable land-use planning and management, promoting nature-based agroecological models, and fostering close collaboration among actors across the supply chain, we can develop sustainable markets and expand green financing sources. This will create a positive cycle in which prosperity goes hand in hand with ecosystem restoration, moving toward a future where people and nature thrive in harmony.

The event in Dong Thap serves as an important bridge between policy and practice, connecting national efforts with international networks. It also promotes the adoption of technical solutions, market-based mechanisms, and green financing. The conference is expected to outline a clear action roadmap, identify a list of priority projects, and strengthen multilateral partnerships, contributing to Vietnam’s goal of becoming one of the leading countries in the region in agroecology and sustainable food system transformation.