Germany shares experience, raises awareness of climate change in Vietnam

The German Embassy in Hanoi has just coordinated with the organization "Bread for the World " to organize a discussion with the theme "Strengthening the power of forests: From climate solutions to community benefits".

This is the second discussion session within the framework of the “ Hanoi Climate Dialogue” - a series of events to discuss various topics related to climate change.

View of the seminar. (Source: German Embassy in Hanoi)

The "Hanoi Climate Dialogue" provides a platform to share experiences, raise awareness and promote cooperation among policy makers, businesses, the scientific community and the general public.

The theme of the discussion emphasized the important role of forests in mitigating climate change, promoting biodiversity and supporting sustainable development.

The event attracted the participation of many stakeholders from ministries, branches, research and training institutions and the public: Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Thai Nguyen University, international organizations and members of the diplomatic community.

Speaking at the event, German Ambassador Helga Margarete Barth stressed: “Typhoon Yagi has devastated communities and the environment in many ways. Apart from the severe consequences of the storm, especially in rural areas in northern Vietnam, the loss of 25,000 trees in Hanoi alone is a significant setback. We believe that we cannot solve global warming without the help of trees around the world.

The science is clear: sustainable forest management is one of the most effective and cost-effective ways to protect our climate. Germany is a long-standing partner in Vietnam’s efforts to protect its forests and ensure a sustainable future for future generations.

Together we are implementing forestry projects across the country, with a total investment portfolio of 75 million Euros. We look forward to continuing to support Vietnam on its path towards a green and sustainable future.”

During the panel discussion, international experts explored the important role of Vietnam's forests in addressing climate change and supporting sustainable development.

They also reviewed the current state of the forestry sector, strategies to enhance carbon sequestration and the importance of urban forestry, agroforestry and international cooperation in promoting sustainable forest management.

Mr. Pham Hong Luong, Deputy Director of the Department of Forestry, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, highlighted the multifaceted role of Vietnam's forests, including carbon sequestration, environmental services and economic value.

Associate Professor, Dr. Tran Thi Thu Ha, Director of the Institute of Forestry Research and Development, Thai Nguyen University of Agriculture and Forestry, shared her insights into urban forests, which have been shown to be effective in carbon sequestration, urban heat reduction, stormwater management, and air quality improvement.

For Vietnam, expanding urban forests in cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang can reduce climate impacts while improving the quality of life for urban residents.

Dr. Nguyen Quang Tan, National Coordinator, Center for International Forestry Research and the World Agroforestry Organization (CIFOR-ICRAF), emphasized the great potential of agroforestry in Vietnam in contributing to climate change mitigation.

Agroforestry, also known as extra-forest or intercropping in agriculture, plays an important role in restoring agricultural ecosystems while improving the livelihoods of local people. Agroforestry is also an important carbon sink.

Ms. Anja Barth, Chief Project Advisor, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), gave an overview of the German-Vietnamese partnership in sustainable forest management, one of the most effective and cost-effective ways to protect the climate.

German development cooperation in Vietnam has three priorities: conserving Vietnam's forests, promoting the role of forests in climate protection and improving the lives of local people.

The event attracted many young people to attend. (Source: German Embassy in Hanoi)

The event concluded with a call to action for governments, businesses and individuals to work together to create a sustainable future.

As the urgency of responding to climate change increases, understanding and strengthening the role of Vietnam’s forests becomes increasingly essential. Healthy forests are critical to mitigating the impacts of climate change, and Vietnam’s forests play a vital role in this effort.

Vietnam's forests, which cover approximately 40% of its land area, not only support incredible biodiversity but also provide essential ecosystem services that benefit both local and global communities.

Furthermore, the sustainable management of forest resources is crucial to supporting livelihoods, economic stability and overall community health.

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/duc-chia-se-kinh-nghiem-nang-cao-nhan-thuc-ve-bien-doi-khi-hau-o-viet-nam-287720.html