INTRODUCTION
Research rationale
Vietnam's tropical forests play a crucial role in providing environmental services and valuable forest products, yet they face significant threats from loss and degradation Annually, approximately 100,000 hectares of natural forest are lost, leading to extensive social, economic, and environmental consequences This deforestation not only affects the forests themselves but also has downstream impacts on lowland areas, where the health of water and soil is heavily reliant on the ecological processes originating from the highlands.
In 2012, forest land in our country covered 13.9 million hectares, representing 40.7% of the total land area While forest coverage has increased over recent decades, the area of natural forests has continued to decline, resulting in significant forest and environmental degradation Additionally, various factors have led to a severe reduction in the quality of our subjective forests, contributing to an increase in greenhouse gas emissions.
Vietnam's forest resources have significantly declined over the past century, with a dramatic reduction in forest area Historically, the country was largely covered by forests, but colonial activities led to extensive land clearing for crops such as coffee, rubber, and tea By the mid-20th century, forest coverage had dwindled to just 43% of natural land, particularly affecting regions like the Red River Delta and the Mekong Delta The devastation continued through thirty years of war, during which over 80 million liters of herbicides and 13 million tons of bombs caused the destruction of more than 2 million hectares of tropical forests (FPD, 2012).
Table 1: The variation in forest area Vietnam during 1945-2012
In the past decade, forest cover in Vietnam has increased primarily in production forest areas due to natural regeneration and plantation on bare land; however, the quality of these regenerated forests is low Old growth natural forests, which represent only 6% of Vietnam's total forest area and are designated as conservation areas, face ongoing threats from illegal logging The loss of these forests, particularly in environmentally vulnerable regions, poses serious risks to biodiversity, soil stability, and ecosystem health Despite the critical need for the maintenance and restoration of upland forests, these efforts have not yet been realized, resulting in continued forest loss, environmental degradation, and persistent poverty in the uplands of Vietnam.
Bac Kan province has been selected as one of six pilot provinces for the United Nations program aimed at reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in Vietnam Additionally, Na Ri district has been identified as one of three pilot districts to implement the REDD+ program, focusing on sustainable forest management and conservation.
To effectively protect forests, it is essential to identify their causes and solutions The Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) initiative aims to offer financial incentives to forest owners and users This mechanism requires countries to accurately measure and monitor CO2 emissions caused by deforestation and degradation within their territories.
Derived from the pressing issues above, entitled “ Propose solutions to integrate Reducing Emission from Deforestation and Forest Degradation
The study on REDD+ in Na Ri District, Bac Kan Province aims to identify the causes of forest degradation and propose solutions for integrating REDD+ into local forest protection and development initiatives The findings will be valuable for local managers and policymakers, guiding them in incorporating REDD+ into long-term strategies for sustainable forest management.
Research’s Objectives
The study aims to determine the causes of forest degradation then propose solutions to integrate REDD + in the protection and development of forests in Na
Ri District of Bac Kan province.
Specifically, the research finds out answer for the following questions:
- What is the current status of forest management and forest protection in
Na Ri district of Bac Kan province?
- What are the impacts and causes of forest degradation?
- How to integrate REDD + in the protection and development of forest in
Na Ri District of Bac Kan province?
- Current status of forest management and forest protection in Na Ri district
- Impacts and causes of forest degradation
- Proposed solutions to integrate REED + in Na Ri district of Bac Kan province
Bac Kan has been selected as one of six pilot provinces for the United Nations REDD+ program, with Na Ri designated as one of three pilot districts due to its extensive forest land This initiative positions Na Ri as a key area for forest protection and development in Bac Kan Province, offering the potential to generate carbon credits that can enhance household incomes for local communities.
This research highlights the critical impact of forest degradation on communities, emphasizing the need for individuals and organizations to recognize their role in addressing climate change By fostering self-awareness and responsibility, communities can take proactive steps to prevent and mitigate the effects of deforestation It is essential to minimize the significant loss of life and property due to climate change, particularly for those directly affected Increased vigilance and strategic measures are necessary to reduce potential damage in the future.
Definitions
Since the 1980s, sustainable development has gained significant attention in policy discussions, with various definitions emerging over time The most influential definition was introduced by the Brundtland Commission in 1987, which characterized sustainable development as a form of progress that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
“meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs” (WCED, 1987).
Sustainability is a complex concept that cannot be encapsulated by a single definition Most interpretations emphasize the interconnectedness of economic, environmental, and social factors, aiming to benefit both current and future generations This integrated approach, which has evolved since the late 1980s, is fundamental to sustainable development and is applicable to forests as well as other ecosystems.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Sustainable development and Sustainable forest management
Since the 1980s, sustainable development has gained significant attention in policy-making The Brundtland Commission's 1987 report provided a foundational definition, describing sustainable development as a form of progress that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
“meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs” (WCED, 1987).
Sustainability is a complex concept that cannot be fully captured by a single definition, as it encompasses economic, environmental, and social components These elements are interconnected and aim to benefit both current and future generations Since the late 1980s, the integrated approach to sustainable development has evolved, emphasizing its significance across various ecosystems, including forests.
Figure 2.1: Barbier’s integrated approach to sustainable development
Source: Barbier, 1987 2.1.2 Sustainable forest management (SFM)
The concept of Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) has a rich history, with its significance in addressing the needs of future generations acknowledged since the 18th century (Wiersum, 1995).
In the early 19th century, the principle of sustained yield emerged as a fundamental concept in forest management across Western Europe, especially in Germany For many years, the focus of sustainability in forestry was primarily on ensuring a consistent supply of wood products, highlighting the importance of sustained yield in practical applications (Wiersum, 1995).
In recent decades, the value of forests has gained recognition due to their critical roles in biodiversity and ecosystem services According to Gonzalez et al (2005), forest ecosystems are vital for terrestrial biodiversity, supporting nearly 90% of it, and are essential for the livelihoods of 90% of the 1.2 billion people living in extreme poverty, while indirectly aiding half of the population in developing regions Additionally, forests contribute significantly to GDP growth in many developing countries through trade and store about 50% of the world's terrestrial carbon stocks, playing a key role in the global carbon cycle They also uphold indigenous and traditional cultural, spiritual, and recreational values Despite their importance, forests have experienced significant reductions, particularly over the last two centuries.
The loss of forests has resulted in significant environmental and socio-economic challenges, including biodiversity decline, soil erosion, water issues, climate change, and the loss of resources and livelihoods for forest-dependent communities This degradation has highlighted the critical role of forest ecosystems in providing economic, social, and environmental benefits at both local and global levels As a result, the concept of Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) has developed to address these pressing issues.
In the mid-20th century, the concept of Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) expanded to include the principle of multiple uses, which highlights the importance of providing not just timber products but also a variety of socio-economic and environmental services (Wiersum, 1995) SFM gained international recognition through the Forest Principles and Chapter 11 of Agenda 21, established at the 1992 UN Conference on Environment and Development However, Upton and Bass (1995) pointed out that these principles lacked binding legal regulations, emphasizing the necessity for standards in forest management, conservation, and sustainable development A more comprehensive definition of SFM was later developed through the Helsinki Process.
Sustainable management involves the responsible stewardship of forests and forest lands to preserve their biodiversity, productivity, and regeneration capacity This approach ensures that these ecosystems can fulfill essential ecological, economic, and social functions both now and in the future, without harming other ecosystems.
The definition developed by Poore for the ITTO is similar, though more conservatively worded, as follows:
Sustainable forest management involves the careful administration of permanent forest land to meet specific goals, ensuring a consistent supply of forest products and services This approach prioritizes the preservation of the forest's intrinsic values and future productivity while minimizing negative impacts on both the physical environment and local communities (ITTO, 1992).
Definitions of sustainable forest management are often regarded as a logical extension of Brundtland’s concept of sustainable development (Ferguson,
1996) However, like the definition of sustainability, no universal definition ofSFM has been accepted (Higman et al., 2005).
Overview of REDD +
The UN-REDD Programme, established in September 2008, aims to support developing countries in building capacity to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation This initiative focuses on the REDD+ mechanism, which emphasizes the importance of conserving forests, managing them sustainably, and enhancing forest carbon stocks to mitigate climate change impacts in these regions.
To effectively reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation, a robust global partnership is essential for establishing a REDD+ mechanism under the UNFCCC This collaboration requires developing countries to commit to low-carbon, climate-resilient development, while developed nations must offer predictable and substantial funding as an incentive to lower forest-based carbon emissions (UN-REDD, 2010).
The UN-REDD Programme is assisting governments in Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America and the Caribbean by implementing nine pilot country National Programmes This initiative focuses on developing national REDD+ strategies, establishing monitoring systems, engaging stakeholders, and evaluating various benefits (UN-REDD, 2010).
Building on the lessons learned and feedback from countries and other partners, the Programme has increased its funding base and the number of participating countries.
The Programme is designed to address the specific needs of countries, facilitating the transformation of the forest sector and other land-use impacting sectors in developing economies to prepare for REDD+ It aligns with the UNFCCC COP16 decisions regarding policy approaches and positive incentives related to REDD+, and is prepared to assist countries in implementing the COP16 agreement on REDD+ as needed.
The UN-REDD Programme leverages the expertise of its three participating agencies: FAO, UNDP, and UNEP, to advance REDD+ initiatives in collaboration with other organizations, particularly the World Bank It supports the implementation of UNFCCC decisions and provides secretariat services to the REDD+ Partnership, established in May 2010, aimed at enhancing REDD+ actions and financing As a multilateral initiative driven by country demand, the UN-REDD Programme plays a vital role in facilitating interim REDD+ financing arrangements and coordinating efforts to integrate an effective REDD+ mechanism into future climate change agreements.
In Vietnam, REDD+ plays a crucial role in forest management and sustainable usage by promoting the protection of existing forests, conserving biodiversity, and enhancing forest coverage and value This initiative also aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while effectively implementing the National Strategy for Green Growth, the National Strategy on Climate Change, and the restructuring of the forestry sector.
In accessing REDD + initiatives and REDD + implementation, under Decision No 799 / QD-TTg dated 27/6/2012 of the Prime Minister and Decision
On July 29, 2013, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development issued Decision No 1724/QD-BNN-HTQT, selecting Bac Kan as one of six pilot provinces for the United Nations' cooperation program aimed at reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation This initiative, known as UN-REDD Vietnam Phase II, focuses on sustainable forest management and the conservation of forest carbon stocks The program's goal is to strengthen the capacity of national and provincial agencies, enabling Vietnam to benefit from results-based payments under the REDD+ framework (DARD Bac Kan, 2014).
The Management Board of the National Program successfully conducted a training workshop in Bac Kan Province, aimed at enhancing stakeholder awareness of REDD+ and its connections to forests and climate change This event also marked the launch of the UN-REDD Vietnam Programme Phase II in Bac Kan, which is crucial for strengthening the provincial program's operational framework The initiative is essential for building Bac Kan's capacity to effectively implement REDD+ in the future, especially with the financial and technical support received for integrating REDD+ activities into forest planning and development from 2011 to 2020 (DARD Bac Kan, 2014).
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a significant greenhouse gas (GHG), and alterations in the global carbon cycle that influence CO2 levels are vital for the climate Forests serve as both carbon sinks and sources, with their vegetation and soils holding approximately half of the Earth's terrestrial carbon Terrestrial ecosystems have the capacity to sequester more CO2 than they currently do Therefore, implementing REDD+ is essential for enhancing the ability to absorb CO2, conserve soil and water resources, and mitigate climate change impacts.
Characteristics of Bac Kan province and Na Ri district
Bac Kan province boasts abundant forest resources, with a forest cover of 70.6% of its total area As of 2012, natural forests comprised about 60.6%, while poor forests and those undergoing restoration with pioneer species accounted for 10% The forest distribution includes approximately 70% designated for production, 21.8% for protection, and 5.8% classified as special use forests Additionally, the province has around 90,000 hectares of forest land lacking cover crops, presenting opportunities for afforestation and reforestation initiatives.
Table 2.1: Variation of forest resources Bac Kan period 1999-2012
Source: Forestry department of Bac Kan, 2012 luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Table 2.2: Land use situation in Bac Kan
Natural area in Bac Kan 485,941 100.0
Source: Forestry department of Bac Kan, 2012
Table 2.3: Area of forest and non-forested land by 3 types of forest in Bac Kan
Total area of forest land
Source: Forestry department of Bac Kan, 2012 luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Bac Kan is situated in the northern mountainous ecological zone of Vietnam, located north of Thai Nguyen The provincial capital, Bac Kan town, is approximately 160 km from Hanoi and 90 km from Thai Nguyen Established on January 1, 1997, Bac Kan was formed when the former Bac Thai Province was divided into two new provinces: Bac Kan and Thai Nguyen.
In 2013, Bac Kan Province had a population of 308,259, with a density of approximately 63 people per square kilometer The population comprises seven ethnic groups, including Tay (60.4%), Kinh (19.3%), Dao (9.5%), Nung (7.4%), and smaller percentages of San Diu, Hoa, and H’mong The average population growth rate exceeds 1%, and the primary source of income in the region is derived from agricultural and forestry production.
Economic condition: Bac Kan is one of the poorest provinces of Vietnam.
In 2011, Bac Kan ranked 60th out of 63 provinces in Vietnam's Provincial Competitiveness Index, highlighting significant development challenges Approximately 85% of its population resides in rural areas, relying on agriculture and forestry for their livelihoods, with around 26.13% classified as poor Recognizing these issues, the Vietnamese government prioritizes Bac Kan for inter-sectoral development programs, particularly emphasizing the potential of the forestry sector to drive social and economic growth in the region.
Land and forests: The province has a total area of 485,941 ha, of which agricultural land comprises 30,509 ha (6.3%), forest land is 342,832 ha (70.6%), and other is 112,600 ha (23.1%) income.
Bac Kan Province's forests play a crucial role in watershed protection, particularly in the Nang River catchment area, which supports Ba Be Lake, a designated national conservation area Traditionally, the forest land in Bac Kan has been utilized for practices such as shifting cultivation, slash and burn agriculture, and timber extraction.
Na Ri, an Eastern District of Bac Kan province, is located approximately 40 km from the provincial town It shares borders with Lang Son province to the east, Bach Thong and Cho Moi districts to the west, Cho Moi district and Thai Nguyen to the south, and Ngan Son district and Lang Son province to the north (Lac Viet, 2014).
Figure 2.2: Administrative map of Na Ri District luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Na Ri features a predominantly hilly landscape characterized by limestone formations, narrow valleys, and steep slopes beneath the Ngan Son bow The region is home to two notable peaks: Coc Xo, standing at 1,131 meters, and Phia Ngan, which reaches 1,119 meters in elevation.
The main rivers flowing through the district include: Ngan Son, Na Ri, Bac Giang (Lac Viet, 2014).
Na Ri, situated in the Bac Giang River valley, experiences unique climatic conditions due to the presence of Kim Hy limestone, which shields the area from the summer west winds As a result, Na Ri receives the least rainfall in Bac Kan province, with an annual average precipitation of less than 1,400 mm (Lac Viet, 2014).
Culture and society: Total area of Na Ri is 85,300 ha with total population of 37,000 (in 2012) and population density is 42 people/km 2 (Lac Viet, 2014).
Yen Lac District, located in the town of Yen Lac, comprises 22 administrative units, including Yen Lac town and the communes of Vu Loan, Van Hoc, Luong Thuong, Lang San, Luong Ha, Cuong Loi, Kim Lu, Luong Thanh, Lam Son, An Tinh, Van Minh, Kim Hy, Con Minh, Hao Nghia, Cu Le, Huu Thac, Quang Phong, Duong Son, Xuan Duong, and Liem Thuy (Lac Viet, 2014).
Na Ri has five ethnic groups including Hmong, Tay, Nung, Kinh, Dao.
Of the 22 communes and towns of Na Ri, 15 communes have special difficulties, mainly due to geographical limestone forests, steep, terrain dissected getting around very difficult (Lac Viet, 2014).
Na Ri boasts an impressive 74,760.6 hectares of forest and forest land, representing 88% of its total land area Among this, over 14,000 hectares are classified as rocky forests, with 2,730 hectares of limestone forests spanning 70 kilometers across five communes: Lien Thuy, Xuan Duong, Hao Nghia, Cu Nghia, and Duong Son This region is home to a diverse primary forest ecosystem, featuring numerous rare plants and protected animal species.
Hy Nature Reserve has many rare woods such as pine, gnashing (Lac Viet, 2014).
Na Ri is ideal for afforestation and provides essential tree materials for paper production, including species like Luong and acacia Additionally, it supports the cultivation of medicinal plants such as anise, cinnamon, and cardamom, as well as food crops like corn, potatoes, rice, peanuts, soybeans, and arrowroot The region also facilitates livestock farming, including cattle and horses (Lac Viet, 2014).
Na Ri is rich in natural resources, featuring both primary and placer gold deposits in areas like Thuong Luong, Kim Hy, and Lang San The region also has zinc ore in Con Minh, along with tin ore and limestone soils that support diverse vegetation, including valuable timber species.
METHODS
Materials
3.1.1 Object, location and time of study
- Object: Forest resources in Bac Kan, the state and private organizations, households, individuals and communities who participate in the management, protection and development of forests.
- Location research: Na Ri district of Bac Kan province.
Both primary data and secondary data were required for the research.
To conduct effective secondary data research, gather all relevant information and documents related to the research topics, including legal documents on provincial development and economic plans, as well as literature on hydrometeorology, natural disasters, and environmental resources in the province Additionally, compile materials such as reports, maps, and policy documents at both national and provincial levels that pertain to forest protection, biodiversity, and socioeconomic factors related to land and forest development.
From 2003 to 2014, comprehensive documents including maps, data, and reports on forest monitoring programs were gathered at the provincial level This collection encompassed economic and social data, as well as insights into the monitoring and management of forest resources Additionally, land use planning and allocation activities were conducted from 2015 to 2020, further enhancing the management of these vital resources.
The article focuses on collecting data from district and forest owners regarding economic development programs related to agriculture and forestry It highlights the implementation of infrastructure projects, including hydropower initiatives in the area, while emphasizing the importance of forest management, protection, and development within the district.
Primary data was gathered through both preliminary and formal fieldwork The preliminary phase involved selecting research sites, identifying key informants, testing checklists and semi-structured questionnaires, and collecting general information This was succeeded by formal fieldwork, which included in-depth key informant interviews and sample plot measurements to verify the accuracy of the gathered data The investigation focused on observing forest conditions, infrastructure, roads, and residential housing, along with other relevant factors.
3.1.3 Data processing a Rearrange papers and documents about forest and the current status reports of the specific study areas.
- Refer to paper maps and digital maps of Bac Kan
- Select ways to display analyzed data b Make a list of structural distribution of forest in the study area with characteristics as density, frequency, abundance, etc.
From the collected, analyzed data and information, comparison, evaluations, propose a number of solutions in accordance with the fact conditions of Na Ri district.
All information/data collected from the fieldwork were collected and summarised. luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Methods
Surveying and assessing the social impact factors, habits, cultural (ethnic characteristics, farming practices, migration habits ) on forest resources in different regions by using questionnaire as follow:
Questionnaire:Open-ended questions for discussionsand interviewing key informants
1 Forest land use rights and forest management
1) How many households of the commune/district/province have been given forest land title?
2) How many households have not obtained forest land? If not, why?
3) Have any households returned forest land as a result of being unable to farm it?
4) What are the main causes for this?
5) Are/were the interests of households in forest land taken into account when the land-use rights and rules are made? Why not?
6) Are the traditional culture and beliefs of local people taken into account when these rules are made?
7) Have local people participated in the process of rule making?
8) If yes, does their involvement give them incentives to comply with the rules?
9) Does their involvement give them incentives to monitor forest land use by others? If yes, how?
10) Are there many disputes over forest land? If yes, what are the main issues in such dispute? luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
11) Who has responsibility for resolving conflicts among the different parties with claims to the forest land?
12) Are the administrative officers reluctant to resolve these conflicts? If yes, why?
13) What difficulties does the office face in implementing the law?
14) What do you believe to be the benefits and problems with the current Land Law?
15) What improvements in implementing the law should be carried out?
16) Should any policies, particularly forest land policy be changed to encourage SFM?
17) Have any policies, regulations and incentives for land improvement been established?
18) What are the plans for implementation of conservation on public lands?
19) What forms of support and guidance are provided in conservation efforts on private land?
2 Main causes of forest degradation
1) What is the area of forest land, garden, shifting cultivation, settlement, and other?
2) Where do the villagers usually employ shifting cultivation, forest product gathering, gardening, fishing and recreation?
3) Is there any plan for land conservation in the village? If no, what is the reason?
If yes, what is land for?
4) What changes have occurred in the area of the forest utilized by the villagers from year to year (after land allocation)?
5) What have been changes in village rules concerning forest utilization since Renovation Policies?
6) Is it getting more difficult to utilize/obtain a new forest area? luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
4 Opportunities and constraints to integrate REDD + in the protection and development of forest in Na Ri
3) What are recommendations to cope with constraints? luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
RESULTS
Current status of forest in Na Ri district in the period of 2009-2014
4.1.1 Current situation of forest area and forest management 4.1.1.1 Forest area
The Na Ri district, covering approximately 85,300 hectares and home to a population of 37,000, represents 17.78% of Bac Kan province's area and 12.39% of its population With over 74,700 hectares of forest land compared to just 5,900 hectares of agricultural land, the district holds significant potential for utilizing forest resources to enhance local livelihoods The limited agricultural land and underutilized forest resources contribute to a high poverty rate, with 37% of households in Na Ri classified as poor.
In 2012, a survey and inventory conducted in Na Ri revealed the current status of land use, as detailed in Table 4.1.
Table 4.1: Land Use situation in Na Ri District
No Land category Areas (ha) Rate (%)
3 Land for cemeteries and graveyards 55.38 0.06
Source: Forestry Department of Bac Kan, 2012
Na Ri district in Bac Kan Province is a key area for forest protection and development, boasting one of the largest natural areas that includes both plantation and special-use forests This district holds significant potential for generating carbon credits from its forests and plantations, which can enhance the income of local communities.
Figure 4.1: Graph of the forest area proportion by districts in total forest area of Bac Kan province
Source: Forestry Department of Bac Kan, 2012
The extensive forest cover in Na Ri highlights the region's significant forest land area, indicating a strong potential for generating income through environmental services for those who manage and protect these vital resources.
According to the survey and inventory of Na Ri in 2012, the situation of forest land as follows:
Figure 4.1: Graph of the forest area proportion by districts in total forest area of Bac Kan province
Source: Forestry Department of Bac Kan, 2012
The forest cover in Na Ri accurately represents the current state of its woodlands, as illustrated in Table 4.2 Na Ri boasts a substantial area of forest land, highlighting its significant potential to provide environmental services This capacity allows individuals who manage and protect these forests to enhance their income by treating them as valuable assets.
According to the survey and inventory of Na Ri in 2012, the situation of forest land as follows:
Figure 4.1: Graph of the forest area proportion by districts in total forest area of Bac Kan province
Source: Forestry Department of Bac Kan, 2012
The extensive forest cover in Na Ri highlights its significant environmental value, as illustrated in Table 4.2 This vast area of forest land offers substantial potential for generating income through environmental services for those who manage and protect these vital resources.
In 2012, a survey and inventory conducted in Na Ri revealed key insights into the state of forest land in the region.
Table 4.2: Forest area by function in Na Ri District
Source: Forestry Department of Bac Kan, 2012
From the table above, graph of forest cover proportion by each type as follow:
The total forest area by function
Total 74,789.23 52,244.85 69.86 12,710.9 17.00 9,833.5 13.14 luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Figure 4.2: Ratio of forest cover in Na Ri District
Source: Forestry Department of Bac Kan, 2012
The implementation of land allocation policies has resulted in a significant portion of forest and forest land in the province being owned by households This has led to increased interest in forestry activities among the local population, with many actively engaging in the regeneration and protection of these areas Consequently, previously non-forested lands have been rapidly restored to young forests.
The forestry sector has played a vital role in promoting afforestation by establishing a network of forest seed nurseries that provide seedlings and offer plant care engineering services Additionally, the construction of wood processing plants has generated vibrant marketing materials, encouraging community engagement and enthusiasm for tree planting initiatives.
Figure 4.2: Ratio of forest cover in Na Ri District
Source: Forestry Department of Bac Kan, 2012
The implementation of land allocation policies has resulted in a significant portion of forest and forest land in the province being owned by local households This has led to increased interest in forestry activities, with many households actively engaging in the regeneration and protection of these areas Consequently, previously non-forested lands have been rapidly restored to young forests.
The forestry sector has played a crucial role in promoting afforestation by establishing a comprehensive system that includes forest seed production and nurseries capable of supplying seedlings Additionally, it offers plant care engineering services Furthermore, the construction of wood processing plants has generated vibrant marketing materials, encouraging community enthusiasm for plantation efforts.
Figure 4.2: Ratio of forest cover in Na Ri District
Source: Forestry Department of Bac Kan, 2012
The implementation of land allocation policies has resulted in a significant portion of forest and forest land in the province being owned by local households, leading to a high engagement in forestry activities This increased interest has fostered active regeneration and protection efforts, resulting in the rapid restoration of many non-forested areas into thriving young forests.
The forestry sector has played a crucial role in promoting afforestation by establishing a comprehensive system that includes forest seed production and nurseries capable of supplying seedlings and providing plant care engineering services Additionally, the development of wood processing plants has generated vibrant marketing materials, encouraging community engagement and enthusiasm for tree planting initiatives.
Table 4.3: Summary the current situation of forest land allocation in Na Ri District
Source: Forestry Department of Bac Kan, 2012
Number of households were granted certificates of land use
Total 74,789.23 27,902.09 10,071 46,887.14 luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Despite a high coverage rate, the quality of natural forests remains stagnant, predominantly consisting of restored, poor, and mixed forests, with rich forests making up a minimal percentage and facing threats from illegal mining Additionally, the lack of allocated forest land contributes to ongoing degradation, as these areas lack proper management and care.
Table 4.4: Area of forest land by the state of Na Ri District
1 Rich forest on rocky mountain 2,752.99 1,097,779.35
2 Recovery forest on rocky mountain 588.37 29,726.48
3 Forest after exploitation on limestone mountain 4,705.14 192,880.14
4 Average forest on rocky mountain 5,714.43 874,306.26
Source: Forestry Department of Bac Kan, 2012 luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Na Ri boasts over 74,000 hectares of forest land, presenting significant opportunities for forest development Between 2009 and 2013, the district's wood mining production averaged over 3,100 cubic meters annually To harness this potential, the district Party has consistently prioritized the management, protection, and development of its forests.
Impacts and main causes of forest degradation
The survey indicates a significant degradation of Na Ri forest resources, marked by a decline in both quantity and the quality ratio of high-value trees The area primarily consists of young forests, with inadequate forest regeneration This deterioration adversely affects the local population, particularly the impoverished communities that rely heavily on the forest for their livelihoods and environmental stability.
Forest decline leads to a decrease in plant and animal species, exacerbating erosion and soil runoff, which heightens the risk of soil degradation These environmental changes negatively impact travel, production activities, and the livelihoods of local communities.
Degradation also makes groundwater becomes scarcer, it greatly affects people's lives.
Forest degradation is primarily driven by several factors, including persistent poverty among local communities and the low, unstable income derived from forest resources Additionally, weak management practices at various levels exacerbate the situation Illegal logging for forest products complicates deforestation efforts, while other significant contributors include forest fires, mining activities, and the conversion of forest land for agricultural purposes.
Na Ri district is home to approximately 2,000 hectares of the valuable timber species B hsienmu, known for its rarity and high market value Since late 2005, the area has experienced increased deforestation driven by rising material prices and heightened demand for this prized timber from China, particularly impacting the Kim Hy Nature Reserve.
Na Ri district has long simmering but not extinguished, now continuing increased due to the price of wood in type 2 in the market going up The
“recruiter” always willing to buy for more than $10 million/m 3 gritted wood. luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Therefore, the Kim Hy Nature Reserve is currently "butchered" a blatant way by the loggers Trees still down!
In Che Co village, Con Minh commune, an area of less than 500m² has seen the destruction of 12 gnashing trees, 2 mulberry trees, and 1 indigo tree, leaving the landscape severely impacted The freshly cut trees still display vibrant red and green leaves, while the surrounding flora has nearly vanished, with additional trees also falling due to the cutting activities.
Low income from forest resources has led to challenging living conditions for local communities, prompting many to engage in deforestation as a means to improve their financial situation Villagers in Che Co report that timber is typically cut into 20 cm thick and 45-60 cm wide cubes, selling for approximately 150,000 VND each When transported to the forest gate, the price increases to around 180,000 VND, and further delivery to roadside vehicles can reach 220,000 VND per cube The significant profits from these sales have resulted in many locals collaborating with illegal loggers.
Illegal timber extraction, transportation, and trade predominantly involve local residents living in the core area of the reserve, who are often impoverished and dependent on the forest for their livelihoods Following the conclusion of Program 661 in 2010, these communities lost access to resource forest protection contracts, exacerbating their economic struggles Additionally, the forest ranger force is understaffed, and the placement of local ranger stations and forest gate stations is inefficient, frequently neglecting critical areas.
Some Ranger staff exhibit low responsibility in fulfilling their duties, particularly those assigned to specific geographical areas Their limited qualifications and work capacity result in reduced effectiveness, leading to slow detection of deforestation and untimely prevention measures.
Protected area management boards and CPC are not capable of managing and protecting forest areas assigned.
Local commune authorities lack full awareness of their responsibilities regarding forest management in the province This has resulted in inadequate collaboration between departments, associations, and forest rangers in preventing and addressing deforestation Additionally, there are instances of evasion and avoidance of confrontation with those involved in illegal activities related to forest cover.
The lack of synchronized coordination among Rangers, police, the army, and local governments hampers effective prevention and response efforts, failing to dismantle the major smuggling operations involving sugar and timber in the province.
The mountainous province features rocky forest terrain that is often distant from residential areas, resulting in a unique ecosystem with rare wood types, particularly from wood groups I and II, such as Nails and Lim However, the management of these forests is currently facing significant challenges.
Despite significant efforts by local authorities to manage and protect forests, illegal logging remains a challenging issue Many residents in highland farming areas depend on forest resources, including timber and non-timber products, to meet their daily needs This reliance, coupled with the profits from illegal logging, complicates enforcement efforts Additionally, large areas of unallocated forest land in the district contribute to forest degradation, as the lack of ownership leads to a "tragedy of the commons" scenario where no one takes responsibility for preservation.
Illegal logging in Bac Kan province has become increasingly sophisticated, with offenders conducting operations at night and using sound-reducing pipes on their equipment to evade detection The region's vast and complex terrain, coupled with its distance from urban areas and limited ranger presence, facilitates ongoing illegal exploitation and transportation of timber using advanced methods.
Proposing Solutions to Integrate REDD+ in the Protection and
To effectively address local conditions in the forest sector, mitigation strategies can be categorized into four key areas: minimizing emissions from deforestation, decreasing emissions from forest degradation, enhancing forest carbon sinks, and promoting product substitution.
The data presented in tables 3, 4, and 5 indicate that forest land has significant potential to integrate REDD+ payments for environmental services, which can substantially enhance revenue for forest management stakeholders Consequently, the PES/REDD+ program is anticipated to play a crucial role in the preservation of these valuable forest resources.
SFM serves as a comprehensive framework that promotes the synergy and balance of adaptation and mitigation strategies in forest management It emphasizes the importance of integrating economic, social, and environmental values, ensuring that all objectives are met effectively.
This research offers essential guidance for forest managers on evaluating vulnerability and risk related to climate change, while outlining effective adaptation and mitigation strategies Key recommended actions focus on addressing impacts on forest productivity, biodiversity, water resources, fire management, pest control, extreme weather, sea-level rise, and socio-economic factors Additionally, the study presents various mitigation measures and highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and evaluation in forest management to effectively respond to climate change challenges.
Effective forest monitoring and management require a multifaceted approach that includes planning, technological advancements, administrative strategies, economic incentives, and public awareness campaigns.
To effectively protect forests, it is essential to enhance and innovate the dissemination of forest protection laws while engaging local communities in border areas Strengthening collaboration among rangers, police, military, and local governments is crucial Additionally, consistent efforts must be made to aggressively dismantle illegal timber mining and transportation operations.
To ensure the long-term sustainability of the limestone forest, it is essential to implement consistent management mechanisms and policies that benefit local communities Supporting local residents in forest protection is crucial for improving their livelihoods and creating job opportunities Additionally, introducing scientific and technological advancements in production can foster economic development and alleviate poverty It is vital to address the illegal logging issues in forest-adjacent areas to safeguard both the environment and the well-being of nearby populations.
Moreover, based on experience drawn implementation of Phase I of the UN-REDD program, to conduct effective and timely Phase II, need to implement the following solutions.
To enhance the effectiveness of REDD+, it is essential to advance the technical capabilities for measuring, reporting, and verifying its implementation This includes conducting thorough investigations and surveys of forest resources to accurately calculate carbon levels and emissions The results will undergo verification by an independent third party and will be made publicly available through a transparent management system.
To ensure the sustainability of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, it is crucial to protect forests from threats such as logging and the extraction of non-timber forest products Effective protection and development strategies must address the impacts of climate change and natural disasters, which have led to the conversion of forest lands for other uses REDD+ projects must clearly demonstrate their value by showcasing the benefits of forest conservation compared to scenarios where these initiatives are absent.
To enhance the effectiveness of REDD+, it is essential to promote transparency and openness in forest management, involving various stakeholders in the protection and governance of diverse forest types This approach addresses three critical aspects: (i) the organization and management of REDD+ initiatives, (ii) the establishment of payment services for REDD+, and (iii) the implementation of robust monitoring systems for REDD+ activities.
Fourthly, ensuring to prevent and reduce emissions shifted location.
To enhance the effectiveness of the monitoring system for carbon stocks in Vietnam, it is essential to address the challenges faced by households with limited management capacity This limitation hinders the equitable distribution of benefits derived from REDD+ measures among individuals and communities participating in the project.
Effective coordination among agencies and units involved in the project is essential, bridging the gap between central and local donors, as well as between agriculture, rural development, and environmental resources This integration is crucial for the successful development of REDD+ policies at both macro and micro levels.
To enhance forestry management and development, it is crucial to strengthen organizational structures across all levels of state management, from central to local authorities This will empower local governments, particularly at the commune level, to play a more active role in the protection and sustainable development of forest resources.
To enhance the implementation of REDD+, it is essential to encourage social engagement within forest communities, facilitating a more efficient delivery schedule for forest land Many local organizations often hesitate to support natural forests and community plantations, which hinders progress By fostering collaboration among villages, households, and individuals, we can drive significant improvements in forest management and conservation efforts.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION
Discussion
Integrating REDD+ into management strategies involves implementing activities that protect existing forests, conserve biodiversity, and enhance forest coverage and value This approach aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve livelihoods, decrease forest degradation, and increase the carbon absorption capacity of forests while also conserving soil and water resources in the targeted areas.
Through the methods of data collection, actual survey and data analyzing, this research points out that:
Na Ri boasts a total forest area of approximately 74,700 hectares, representing 88% of the district's overall land This extensive coverage offers significant potential for carbon credit sales; however, the forest quality is compromised, primarily due to the prevalence of plantation and restoration forests Despite the district Party's ongoing efforts to combat forest degradation, challenges persist in maintaining the health of these vital ecosystems.
Forest degradation poses significant risks to human life, leading to increased vulnerability to natural disasters, climate change, and a deteriorating ecological environment Key factors contributing to this issue include the low and unstable income of local communities reliant on forests, inadequate local government management, and the occurrence of natural disasters.
To effectively integrate REDD+ into forest protection and development, it is essential to enhance planning, technical, administrative, economic, and promotional strategies within the framework of Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) Furthermore, ongoing improvements and innovations in forest protection and management are crucial to ensure the successful implementation of REDD+.
From the results above, some recommendation are suggested as follow:
The research project was limited in both scale and duration, highlighting the need for more extensive studies on the serious impact of deforestation in Bac Kan and across the country.
The research highlights the urgent need for leaders to focus on the management and protection of forests in Na Ri district and throughout Bac Kan province It is essential to implement measures that effectively respond to and mitigate the impacts of deforestation on local communities.
Increased funding from diverse sources and local governments, along with supportive policies for local communities—especially the underprivileged—are essential for forest protection and development This approach aims to enhance livelihoods and income, ultimately contributing to poverty reduction in district areas.
Conclusion
This research focuses on the forest area, management, and protection in Na Ri district, examining the causes and impacts of deforestation It identifies existing challenges and proposes solutions to integrate REDD+ into forest management and sustainable development, ultimately aiming to enhance the livelihoods of local communities Additionally, the findings offer a framework for replicating the REDD+ approach across the province and nationwide.
The findings underscore the critical effects of forest degradation on communities, highlighting the need for individuals and organizations to recognize their role in climate change prevention and mitigation It is essential for each person to develop awareness and take proactive measures against the consequences of deforestation By doing so, communities can significantly reduce the impending loss of life and property due to climate change, particularly in areas directly impacted Enhanced vigilance and strategic actions are necessary to minimize damage and foster resilience in affected regions.
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Bắc Kạn is a province in the Northeast region of Vietnam, with its capital city located 162 km from Hanoi As of 2018, it had a population of approximately 327,900 and a GRDP of 9,765 billion VND (around 427.2 million USD) The province's economy is primarily based on agriculture, forestry, and services, with significant potential for mineral extraction and tourism development Bắc Kạn is known for its rich cultural heritage, with diverse ethnic groups, and natural attractions such as Ba Bể Lake, recognized as a national historical and cultural site The province has made progress in improving living conditions for its residents and enhancing its infrastructure, including transportation networks.
APPENDICES Appendix 1: Fieldwork itinerary in Na Ri - Bac Kan
1.1 8/10-10/10/2014 Undertaking general surveys and establishing a network for the research from local to national levels
Collecting general information/data in the case study villages (economic-social, forest resources and environmental issues).
Testing a set of questionnaires for informants
Collected GIS database of forest cover and land use during different periods (first time)
Group discussions and village meetings
Interviewing key informants at different levels (village, commune, district, provincial levels)
Data collection from quadrant and round sample plots
Checking GIS database in the fields
Checking GIS database in the fields
Checking and update missing information in the field
3.2 1-9/12/20014 Further update secondary data luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Appendix 2: Inventory data before processing and analysing Table 2.1: Summary of current use of forest land according to review result of Na Ri District
Total area of forest land
Number of household were granted certificates of land use