Reforestation of mangroves after severe impacts of herbicides during the the Viet Nam war: the case of Can Gio

Background

Due to years of armed conflict and the extensive use of toxic chemicals in Vietnam in the 1960s, tens of thousands of hectares of mangrove forests were destroyed. In 1978, the People's Committee of Ho Chi Minhi City recognized this lost and began investing in reforestation efforts.  

Goals & Approach

The objectives of the mangrove reforestation in the Can Gio district were to restore the mangrove ecosystem, restrict erosion, reduce pollution, increase flora and fauna habitat, improve living standards, and supply timber products. Species, such as Rhizophora apiricul ,Nypa friticans, Ceriops tagal and Rhizophora mucronata, were planted primarily by the youth of the region

Reported Takeaways

By 1996, nearly 35,000 ha of mangroves had been successful established with thousands more doing well, which had increased ecosystem functions and biodiversity. While there were originally management issues, by the early 2000s the reforested areas were being adequately overseen, with the Can Gio mangroves even being established as UN Biosphere Reserve.  Still, local livelihoods and the extensive poverty in the region needs to be addressed to ensure the long-term survival of these mangroves.