The IKI project “Cultivation of Energy Crops on Post-Mining Sites (CPEP)” has demonstrated that the cultivation of energy crops on post-mining sites is feasible despite challenging growing conditions. It also offers clear co-benefits such as improved soil quality, which can support the economic or ecological reuse of the land in the medium term. In addition, expert discussions during the project revealed a high level of political will to promote the cultivation of energy crops in Viet Nam, in case there is no trade of with food production. Further interest was expressed in considering other types of marginal land along with mining land. However, to date, comprehensive data on these marginal lands in Viet Nam is not available for designing reliable land use planning. Therefore, as part of a follow-up activity for the CPEP project, the idea was to develop an inventory scheme to characterise, quantify and map marginal lands in selected provinces, using existing in combination with survey and monitoring activities. As such, the marginal areas that can be used for energy crop cultivation were mapped, evaluated and assessed for potential availability in the catchment area of two bioethanol plants operated by Tung Lam in the provinces of Dong Nai and Da Nang, located in Southern and Central Viet Nam.
For the methodological approach, areas identified as marginal were digitised as polygons in a GIS using recent aerial photographs. In addition, geospatial information relevant to the project – such as geology, soil types, vegetation and administrative boundaries – was georeferenced and integrated into the GIS. In this way, further information could be added to each area analysed. Only areas larger than 5 ha, considered to be the minimum size for economically viable energy crop cultivation, were included. In addition, exclusion areas have been defined, such as contiguous forest areas, protected areas, settlement areas and areas used for agriculture, as these areas are generally unsuitable for energy crop cultivation.
Among 1,016 marginal areas were mapped in the provinces of Dong Nai, Ba Ria-Vung Tau and Binh Thuan, not all were considered suitable for energy crop production. The main reasons for this classification are the presence of sandy and/or rocky soils and steep slopes in these areas (Figure 1). In total, about 2.5% of the combined area of the three aforementioned provinces in the southern study area can be considered marginal. In the provinces of Da Nang and Quang Nam, 164 marginal areas were identified, however, similar to the findings in the South – only a small proportion is suitable for energy crop cultivation. Analysis shows that sandy soil is the most common reason of soil degradation in Da Nang, accounting for 46% (Figure 1).
Due to the expected data limitations of remote sensing alone, in a second iteration the aerial survey sites were partially verified by visiting selected sites based on a stratified random sampling design. On the one hand, the selection of the visited sites was based on the types of cases identified (sandy soils, erosion, etc.). On the other hand, an appropriate level of accessibility was required for the practical implementation of the inspections. One example from these ground checks is presented in the Figure 2. The area with the code number 1131 is suitable for the cultivation of energy crops; cassava is already planted in the surrounding area. The reason for not planting is a somewhat rocky and uneven subsoil. However, due to rocky and uneven subsoil, energy crops haven’t been planted.
In summary, a total of 1,180 marginal areas were identified by remote sensing for both study areas in Viet Nam, including 107 mining sites. However, only 72% of the land in the South and 44% in the North were found to be suitable for energy crop cultivation. Common reasons for considering these sites unsuitable included signs of enar-time re-use, clearly visible erosion damage and the risk of flooding. In the end, 800 sites remained that could be considered potentially suitable for energy crops (Table 1). Some of these areas were verified by field inspections to check the plausibility of the aerial image analysis. These inspections revealed that some of the mapped marginal areas were already in use or about to be used, especially in areas with infrastructure and fewer site restrictions. As a result, the total number of potentially suitable areas must therefore be revised downwards due to the uncertainties associated with the aerial image analysis.
Table 1: Summary of number and size of remotely sensed marginal sites in the two study areas in Viet Nam.
| Number of Sites | Saher (%) | Size (ha) | |
| Suitable sites | 800 | 68% | 22,185 |
| Unsuitable sites | 380 | 32% | 13,682 |
| Sum | 1,180 | 100% | 35,867 |
It should be noted that in most of these sensed areas, energy crops can only be grown if massive measures are taken to compensate for the limiting factors. These measures include high costs for irrigation, fertiliser and substrate. It is questionable whether these measures would pay off in an already tight renewable energy market. However, the mapped areas could be ideal locations for photovoltaic or wind power generation and should be explored in this respect – in this way the results could still help to promote the expansion of renewable energy without competing with food production. At the same time, Viet Nam’s Prime Minister approved a new plan for mineral extraction (866/QD-TTg, Approval for Planning for Exploration, Extraction, Processing and Use of Minerals for the Period of 2021-2030 with a Vision to 2050), which will significantly increase the area required for mining after 2030. In the near future, therefore, Viet Nam is expected to see a significant increase in post-mining land, which will dramatically increase the amount of marginal land. As a result of these exploitation plans, there will be a future need to develop land use planning strategies for these sites. The approach presented in this article is a sound demonstration of how these sites can be systematically categorised in a GIS as a first step to develop land use planning strategies – a response to the ever-increasing land use pressures in Viet Nam.
To learn more about the first phase of the energy crop cultivation project on former mining sites, please visit: Cultivation of Energy Crops on former Mining Sites on a Pilot Scale in Viet Nam
Contact: Ute Mark & Dr. Harald Mark, mark@msp-bochum.de; Dr. Arne Reck, arne.reck@ufu.de;
For the past six years, deep in the Central Annamites, forest guards have patrolled dense forests, communities have come together to protect their lands, and governments have united to safeguard biodiversity and natural ecosystems. This is the legacy of the Carbon and Biodiversity Conservation (CarBi II) Project, which has transformed conservation efforts in one of Viet Nam and Laos’ most ecologically significant landscapes.
The project’s impact extends beyond conservation – it has shaped the region’s future. Mr Nguyen Dai Anh Tuan, Deputy Director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Hue City, acknowledged its significance: “The project has contributed to the stable development of a vast landscape with high biodiversity value. It has enhanced the unique natural scenery of Hue and Quang Nam, adding to the cultural and heritage value of Central Viet Nam while creating opportunities for sustainable development in the near future.”
Since its launch in 2019, CarBi II has made a lasting impact in Hue and Quang Nam (Viet Nam) and Sekong and Salavan (Laos), strengthening forest protection, restoring critical habitats, and engaging local communities in conservation. Supported by the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety, and Consumer Protection (BMUV) through KfW, the project is part of the International Climate Initiative (IKI) and builds on the successes of CarBi I.
Over the years, the project has expanded protected areas, enhanced law enforcement, and empowered communities. In 2024, Hue Saola Nature Reserve was expanded by over 4,000 hectares, and Xesap National Protected Area expanded over 49,000 hectares, forming a critical protected areas network for wildlife movement between the Bach Ma National Park and the Hue & Quang Nam Saola Nature Reserves (Viet Nam) with Xesap National Protected Area in Salavan and Sekong provinces in Laos. Meanwhile, the Quang Nam Saola Nature Reserve is undergoing further expansion, reinforcing its role as a haven for endangered species.
Beyond protecting forests, CarBi II has been about people. More than 3,500 households have benefited from Village Development Facilities (VDFs), a model that has helped communities invest in sustainable livelihoods while reducing reliance on forest resources.
Ms Poloong Lac, a member of Pho Village Community Management Board from Song Kon Commune, Dong Giang District, Quang Nam, shared on behalf of her community: “With the project’s support, our village has been able to manage the largest amount of funds we’ve ever had. Villagers who borrowed from the CarBi II fund have become more responsible and dedicated to their work, and the number of households raising livestock has increased by 80 compared to previous years. Before, we only knew how to farm using traditional methods, but now we have learned to build proper shelters and apply technical knowledge in livestock farming.”
CarBi II also played a pivotal role in curbing wildlife consumption and promoting sustainable resource management. Over five years, the project implemented a behavioural change strategy to address demand for bushmeat and wildlife products. In 2022, Tam Ky launched the ‘Bush Meat-Free City’ initiative, aiming to eliminate the bushmeat trade by 2030. To reinforce these efforts, CarBi II supported monthly joint inspections involving Forest Rangers, Environmental Police, and local authorities in Hue city and Quang Nam province.
The impact has been tangible. A comparison between wildlife consumption surveys from 2020 to the project end revealed a notable decline, with Hue experiencing a 23.37% reduction and Tam Ky achieving a 30.03% drop, surpassing the initial 20% target. These results underscore the effectiveness of sustained enforcement efforts, public awareness campaigns, and collaborative conservation initiatives.
Wildlife, too, has shown signs of recovery. The project’s forest patrols and enforcement efforts have led to a significant drop in illegal threats, from 64% in 2011 to just 17% in 2023. Rare and endemic species, including pangolins, Annamite striped rabbits, and Crested Argus, have been documented more frequently, indicating a positive shift for conservation efforts. Meanwhile, transboundary collaboration between Viet Nam and Laos has been strengthened through formal agreements, ensuring that conservation does not stop at national borders.
As CarBi II concludes, its achievements pave the way for the next phase of conservation in the Central Annamites. Recognising the importance of community-driven efforts, WWF and its partners have launched a new initiative to enhance local participation in biodiversity conservation. The project will support the implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) and Viet Nam’s National Biodiversity Strategy (NBSAP), expanding conservation activities across Hue, Quang Tri, and Quang Nam over the next three years.
WWF’s Thibault Ledecq, Chief Conservation Officer at WWF-Viet Nam, emphasised the importance of building on CarBi II’s success: “The Central Annamites is one of WWF’s global priority landscapes, and the work does not stop here. We will continue working with our partners to develop this region into a resilient landscape where conservation and sustainable development go hand in hand.”
As one project ends, another begins. The work to protect the forests, wildlife, and people of the Central Annamites continues, ensuring that the green heart of this region beats strong for generations to come.
“We’re not just protecting trees, we’re protecting our own future, our children’s future, and the future of many others.”
At the foot of Muong Chieng Mountain, where a small stream murmurs through endless forests, people share the story of the journey of the Ke village’s Forest Management Group (FMG). It is a story of transformation, revival, and gratitude.
From Peril to Peace
Back in the 1990s, the natural protection and plantation forests of Ke Village, spanning over 270 hectares, were under serious threat from illegal logging and poaching. Precious trees were being cut down, and rare animals were hunted. The villagers realised that if they didn’t do something, they wouldn’t just lose the forest—they’d lose their way of life —the clean water, the cool climate, and the soul of their village.
In 1996, the Ke Village’s FMG was established. At first, their job was pretty basic: patrolling the area and dealing with violations. Despite overwhelming challenges—vast terrain, limited manpower, and harsh weather— they kept at it, quietly watching over the forest. But when they joined the project “Strengthening community-based forest management to protect the Da Bac’ Forests in Viet Nam”, everything began to change. The project is funded under IKI Small Grants programme and implemented by The Centre for Research on Initiatives of Community Development (RIC) in three villages of Ke, Ban Ha, Chieng Cang in Muong Chieng commune, Da Bac district, Hoa Binh province, Viet Nam from 01 November 2023 to 31 January 2025.
Beyond the trees – building the blueprint
The project has given the Ke village’s FMG new perspectives. They learned that protecting the forest wasn’t just a job; it was about safeguarding their lives and the heart of their community.
To truly empower community-driven forest management, for the first time, a well-structured community forest management plan of Ke village’s FMG was established. They mapped out high-risk areas, and developed detailed patrol and wildfire prevention and suppression strategies with a “four on-the-spot” approach. The signboards for forest protection were also installed and ensured visibility to increase the effectiveness of awareness raising for all. The assignment of tasks was also clearer—the team leader served as a liaison with the forest rangers, while the deputy leader and members took on patrol and record-keeping duties.
Community-driven changes
Training sessions on community forest management and communication skills for forest protection have given Ke village’s FMG the confidence to truly connect with their neighbors. Not only did they understand the significance of their work and receive the necessary equipment for patrols and protection, but team members were also able to lead communication sessions for the villagers.
“Before, we’d tack on forest protection to village meetings, just telling people to ‘protect the forest,'” one member explained. “Now, thanks to training, we have a deeper understanding of why we need to protect the forest and how to manage it to share it with the villagers. We can even run our own separate sessions on this topic.”
The FMG began explaining the forest’s vital role: it holds water, shelters wildlife, shields against natural hazards, and provides long-term livelihoods. “We finally know how to get people to listen and care,” shared Kien, a team member, with evident pride. Stories of rescued deer and new saplings taking root changed hearts and minds. “We’re not just protecting trees,” emphasized Mr. Dinh Cong Doc, “we’re protecting our own future, our children’s future, and the future of many others.”
A Foundation for the Future
The transformation in Ke village’s forest management wasn’t a quick fix. They are the result of a long process built on community unity. The most visible change wasn’t just in the paperwork, but in the lush, green forests that now blanketed previously exploited areas.
Ke village’s FMG now operates with written plans, clear responsibilities, seamless coordination, and enhanced knowledge and skills. “Everyone knows their role, there’s no more waiting around,” Mr. Dinh Cong Lap – village’s head and a member of FMG – shared, expressing his peace of mind as forest protection has a solid foundation for the long term.
However, the journey ahead still has many challenges. Climate change brings unpredictable weather, the terrain is vast, communication is tough, and maintaining community engagement is an ongoing effort. But one thing is certain: Ke village’s forest is no longer just a responsibility; it’s a source of deep pride. “This forest is ours,” Mr. Bui Van Thuong declared, eyes shining. “Look how healthy it is—we did that.”
Hanoi, March 22, 2025 – This year’s Earth Hour event at Hoan Kiem Lake was more than just a call to turn off the lights – it was a vibrant celebration of community action for sustainability. Families, students, and businesses came together in a festival of energy efficiency, renewable energy and environmental awareness, reinforcing Viet Nam’s commitment to Net-Zero emissions.
One of the most engaging activities was the power-generating cycling challenge, where children and parents pedaled to light up the event’s “I am for Net-Zero” LED board. Eight-year-old boy Hoang Bach excitedly shared, “It’s so cool that my bike can make electricity! I want to save energy at home, too.” His mother, Ai Van, added, “This activity is a great way to show kids that small actions make a difference. It’s inspiring to see so many families here learning about green energy together.”
Another highlight was the creative check-in area, featuring a replica of a traditional Hanoi balcony equipped with solar panels. This installation blended heritage with innovation, sending a strong message about integrating renewable energy into daily life. “We took so many photos here – it’s a perfect symbol of how Hanoi can embrace green energy while preserving its identity,” said Anh Minh, a pedestrian attending the event.
The “Green Move” flash mob performance by students from various universities electrified the crowd, reinforcing the event’s message through dance and music. Additional artistic performances celebrated sustainability, making the event a fun and educational experience for all ages.
GIZ played a supporting role alongside government agencies in organizing the event, contributing to a collaborative effort to advance Viet Nam’s energy transition. This collaboration brought together key stakeholders in Viet Nam’s energy transition, reinforcing the collective effort needed to drive lasting change.
Vu Chi Mai, representative of GIZ Energy Support Programme (ESP) under the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit, emphasized the importance of long-term behavioral change: “This marks our third year supporting Earth Hour in Viet Nam. Through a series of informative and inspiring activities under the theme “Green Transition – Green Future”, we hope to encourage individuals and organizations to take action for a more sustainable future. Our goal is to embed energy efficiency and renewable energy into everyday habits, making them a natural part of daily life. In doing so, we contribute to building a green economy.”
Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Thuy, National Coordinator of ETP, remarked: “The strong public engagement in Earth Hour proves the power of collective action. Through initiatives like this, we aim to inspire responsibility and encourage all to contribute to a just energy transition. By raising awareness and fostering participation, we can turn sustainability into a national movement, ensuring that green habits extend beyond just one event and become an integral part of daily life.”
As the community came together in support of Earth Hour, government representatives and industry leaders also shared their insights on Viet Nam’s green transition, recognizing both the challenges and the opportunities ahead.
Le Anh Thu, Vice Chairwoman of the Hoan Kiem District People’s Committee, highlighted the urgency of energy conservation: “This summer is expected to be the hottest on record, surpassing 2024. In response, Hoan Kiem District has successfully saved 15.4 million kWh of electricity in 2024 and aims to reduce consumption by another 2.2% in 2025. Though a small number, it reflects our commitment to raising awareness and promoting a sustainable lifestyle in every neighborhood. Every step counts, and together, we can create a ripple effect that extends far beyond our district.”
Pham The Dung, Deputy Head of the State Agency for Technology Innovation, stressed the broader impact of the event: “Green transition is not just a trend but a key driver of national competitiveness. Earth Hour 2025 serves as a platform to promote clean energy, encourage innovation, and integrate green technologies into daily life. It is through collective efforts that we will see real change, strengthening Viet Nam’s position as a leader in sustainable development in the region.”
Beyond the lively celebrations, Earth Hour 2025 delivered tangible results: Viet Nam saved 448,000 kWh of electricity within one hour, equivalent to approximately 942.2 million VND. More than just a symbolic act, this achievement underscores the collective impact of individual actions. It is a testament to the growing awareness and commitment of Vietnamese citizens towards energy efficiency and environmental protection.
Tran Viet Nguyen, Deputy Head of Business at Vietnam Electricity (EVN), echoed this sentiment: “This year’s Earth Hour underscores the need for action. A green future requires the engagement of individuals, businesses, and policymakers. We urge the public to be mindful of electricity use, especially during peak hours, to alleviate strain on the grid and contribute to a sustainable energy future. Small changes in energy consumption habits today will lead to long-term benefits for future generations.”
With thousands of young families actively participating, the movement for sustainable living continues to gain momentum, paving the way for a greener, brighter future. The energy and enthusiasm witnessed at Earth Hour 2025 serve as a powerful reminder that when communities unite for a cause, meaningful change is not just possible – it is inevitable.
Viet Nam is embracing to strengthen biodiversity conservation beyond traditional protected areas and achieve the 30×30 global target under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
Definition of OECM (CBD/COP/DEC/14/8)
A geographically defined area other than a Protected Area, which is governed and managed in ways that achieve positive and sustained long-term outcomes for the in-situ conservation of biodiversity with associated ecosystem functions and services and where applicable, cultural, spiritual, socio-economic, and other locally relevant values.
OECMs were first recognised globally as part of the CBD’s Aichi Biodiversity Targets in 2010 and formally defined in 2018. Their significance grew further with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, adopted in 2022, which set the ambitious 30×30 goal to conserve 30% of global terrestrial and marine areas by 2030. As of late 2024, over 6,400 OECMs have contributed to this target, showcasing their role as a complementary approach to traditional protected areas.
In Viet Nam, the National Biodiversity Strategy to 2030 identifies OECMs as a priority for conserving its diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity. While only 7% of the country’s land is legally protected, many ecologically valuable areas such as protected forests, aquatic resource protection sites and national tourism sites hold great potential for OECM recognition. Efforts are now underway to align these measures with national policies, ensuring effective governance and management frameworks.
Some progress has already been made. In 2022-2023, the collaborated with Viet Nam’s Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Agency (NBCA) to assess the OECM potential in Quang Ninh province. The study identified 116 potential OECMs, including forests, wetlands, and bird habitats. Testing tools like the IUCN site-level assessment offered insights into challenges such as governance overlaps, data inconsistencies, and boundary determinations.
Valuable lessons from India and Colombia, which have successfully implemented OECM frameworks, were also drawn. Both countries emphasise the importance of strong legal foundations, national coordination committees and tailored criteria for identifying and managing OECMs. The use of digital portals to streamline identification and reporting offers a scalable solution that Viet Nam can adapt to its context.
To move the OECM agenda in the country forward, GIZ in collaboration with NBCA and IUCN, have also developed the above roadmap to identify, recognise, and institutionalise OECMs, divided into two phases. The first phase (2024 – 2025) focuses on establishing a working group, developing guidelines, and raising awareness among stakeholders. The second phase, starting after 2025, will prioritise legislative reviews, comprehensive assessments, and piloting management models in key ecosystems.
By embracing OECMs, Viet Nam is not only contributing to global biodiversity goals but also safeguarding its unique ecosystems and supporting local communities. This also demonstrates Viet Nam’s commitment to address biodiversity conservation amidst challenges like climate change and development pressures.
A summary of the findings was compiled to gain a deeper understanding of the potential of OECMs in Viet Nam, including good practices and the proposed roadmap. This summary is based on studies conducted within the framework of the measure “Management of protected areas, which unite different eco-systems” under the Study and Experts Fund commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). The summary is created in collaboration with the project “Support to Viet Nam for the Implementation of the Paris Agreement II”, commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) through the International Climate Initiative (IKI), and IUCN.
Please find the publication here: Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures in Viet Nam: Heading Towards Recognition and Effective In-Situ Conservation Beyond Protected Area – International Climate Initiative (IKI) in Viet Nam
From October 19 to 26, 2024, a delegation from Viet Nam’s Ministry of Science and Technology, led by Deputy Minister Hoang Minh, along with representatives from the Clean, Affordable, and Secure Energy for Southeast Asia (CASE) project funded by IKi and implemented by GIZ, engaged in in-depth discussions with partners in Germany and France on energy technology innovation.
Specifically, the delegation met with the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action of Germany (BMWK), the Central Innovation Programme for SMEs (ZIM), and the German Chambers of Industry and Commerce Abroad (AHK) to discuss policies on innovation and technology transfer in Germany, as well as federal financial and technical support for small and medium enterprises conducting research, development, and commercialization of new technologies.
In addition, the delegation visited and exchanged ideas with manufacturing companies directly involved in the renewable energy supply chain in Germany, including Siemens Energy, Whitecell Eisenhuth GmbH & Co. KG, GEO Gesellschaft für Energie und Ökologie GmbH, and Getriebetechnik Magdeburg GmbH. These exchanges provided the delegation with updated information on advanced technologies and innovative models, such as hydrogen, electrolysis technology, and wind turbine engines.
Furthermore, working sessions with research institutes like Agora in Germany and the network of Institute for Research and Technology in France offered insights into global trends and policies regarding research and development in renewable energy technology and carbon reduction in industrial processes.
The Deputy Minister emphasized that the experiences gained from this tour, along with the network of government agencies, businesses, and research institutes, will serve as a critical foundation for the Ministry’s upcoming strategies and initiatives.
This study trip was organised by GIZ, via the CASE project in collaboration with the State Agency for Technology Innovation (SATI) under the Viet Nam’s Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST). The trip is expected to guide the development of technology, innovation, and international cooperation in Viet Nam’s energy transition process.
For more information about CASE project, please visit: Clean, Affordable and Secure Energy for Southeast Asia (CASE) | Internationale Klimaschutzinitiative (IKI)
IKI Project News
The IKI project “Cultivation of Energy Crops on Post-Mining Sites (CPEP)” has demonstrated that the cultivation of energy crops on […]
For the past six years, deep in the Central Annamites, forest guards have patrolled dense forests, communities have come together to […]
“We’re not just protecting trees, we’re protecting our own future, our children’s future, and the future of many others.” At […]
Hanoi, March 22, 2025 – This year’s Earth Hour event at Hoan Kiem Lake was more than just a call […]
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Climate and Biodiversity News
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List is widely recognised as a key global indicator of biodiversity […]
The Vietnamese Government has officially reduced import tariffs for certain goods, including completely built-up (CBU) automobiles… While this move aims […]
The revision of the National Power Development Plan 8 meets JETP goals for renewables and surpasses NDC emission commitments. It […]
Events
We invite you to an IKI Implementer Meeting on Viet Nam’s Emission Trading Scheme (ETS). Date and time: Tuesday, […]
GIZ Country Office, 6th Floor, Hanoi Towers, 49 Hai Ba Trung Street, Hanoi, Viet Nam
We invite you to an IKI Implementer Meeting on Viet Nam’s Updated National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Date and time: Thursday, […]
At the kick-off meeting of the IKI Viet Nam Gender COP last December, we defined the objectives and scope, mapped […]
At this meeting, we will discuss our plans and refine the IKI Interface’s orientation to facilitate coordination and exchange among […]
Paris Meeting Room, IKI Interface Project Office, R. 031, 3rd Floor, Coco Building, 14 Thuy Khue Street, Tay Ho District, Hanoi
The IKI Viet Nam Gender Community of Practice (CoP) was established at the annual IKI Workshop in September. To officially […]
Berlin meeting room, GIZ Viet Nam office, 6th floor, 49 Hai Ba Trung Street, Hanoi.
Recent Publications
The Green Cooling Initiative III (GCI III), spearheaded by the German Federal Ministry of Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV), is a comprehensive and ambitious global endeavor designed to advance sustainable cooling practices worldwide. This initiative targets key countries, including Viet Nam, with the goal of promoting the adoption of energy-efficient cooling technologies that use natural refrigerants. Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) plays a pivotal role as the primary implementing agency for this project.
Through these collaborative efforts, GCI III aims to bolster the ability of stakeholders to adopt and implement green cooling solutions effectively. This, in turn, contributes significantly to advancing Viet Nam’s sustainability agenda and achieving its climate targets, positioning the country as a leader in the global movement towards environmentally friendly cooling technologies.
This assignment centers on elaborating a market study and developing a transformation plan for green cooling technologies in the domestic and retail refrigeration subsectors under the food cold chain sector in Viet Nam.
Viet Nam is a rapidly developing nation facing both population growth and the impact of climate change with over 99 million people and a high population density, Viet Nam’s economic expansion and urbanization contribute to an escalating demand for cooling. It plays a major role in economic and social development including the food processing, freezing, electronics and pharmaceutical industries. However, this growth also intensifies the environmental strain, since the cooling sector is one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In 2016, it constituted 9% of the country’s total emissions, emitting 28.7 Mt CO₂eq (GIZ, 2019).
Addressing this issue becomes the objective of the project, aiming to conduct a comprehensive market survey and develop a transition plan that prioritises green cooling technologies, particularly within the domestic and commercial refrigeration subsectors. The project focuses on the cold food supply chain and aligns with the dual objectives of economic growth and environmental sustainability. Through strategic adoption of green cooling technologies and low GWP refrigerants, this initiative not only aims to revolutionise cooling practices but also seeks to foster a sustainable, resilient, and environmentally conscious trajectory for Viet Nam’s development.
The summary report on “Developing a National Program for Transition to Electric Transport in Viet Nam” outlines a strategic framework to shift the country’s transport sector towards electric vehicles (EVs). It underscores the urgency of this transition, as road transport accounts for over 85% of the sector’s energy demand and 80% of its greenhouse gas emissions.
The report details a series of strategic initiatives designed to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) across Viet Nam. It emphasises the importance of developing a robust charging infrastructure, providing financial incentives for EV purchases, and implementing supportive policies that encourage both public and private sector investment in the electric transport ecosystem. The report also presents various development scenarios, each based on different levels of policy intervention, illustrating how Viet Nam can progressively increase the electrification rate in its transport sector.
On the 16th and 17th of September, the IKI Interface Viet Nam Networking Dinner and Workshop convened implementers from 27 IKI projects, together with German and Vietnamese political partners, for annual discussions and knowledge sharing. This year’s event, themed ‘Economic Instruments for Climate and Biodiversity Protection,’ opened in-depth discussions among IKI implementers about the opportunities and impacts of economic incentives in promoting climate and biodiversity protection in Viet Nam.
