INTRODUCTION
The natural environment is an essential economic asset, yet its resources often lack a price tag, leading to the necessity for their valuation in economic decision-making Valuing environmental resources is crucial as it enables decision-makers to incorporate environmental damages into their evaluations, justifies investments in environmental initiatives, and allows for a comparative analysis of investment proposals based on environmental factors By recognizing natural capital as a valuable component, we can ensure that it is factored into economic decisions, ultimately promoting sustainable development.
Cost- or market-based valuation methods assume that the value of natural resources is equivalent to the costs associated with their conservation or remediation When an environmental resource is harmed, the loss of service necessitates investment or development to prevent further damage or to replace the lost service The costs incurred can effectively approximate the value of the original service, which was previously available at no charge Key cost-based valuation methods include the Replacement Cost Method, Shadow Project Method, Remediation Cost Method, Damage Cost Avoided Method, Productivity Analysis, and Cost-Benefit Analysis.
The replacement cost method aims to assess the costs associated with substituting an environmental resource or service that is freely available It operates on the premise that the value of such a service is at least equal to the costs incurred in its replacement, leading to a lower estimate of value in the literature Key conditions for employing this method include ensuring that the extent and usability of the replacement service match the original, selecting the most cost-effective option from viable alternatives, and confirming that the aggregate willingness to pay supports the investment.
Luot Mountain, managed by the Vietnam National University of Forestry (VNUF), serves as an experimental forest showcasing significant ecological values Research studies, such as those on soil permeability and water retention capacity, highlight its diverse ecological characteristics, including hydrology and soil texture These factors enhance the region's biodiversity and scenic landscapes, making Luot Mountain an invaluable ecosystem for research and educational activities for both students and faculty at VNUF.
A recent survey at VNUF revealed that nearly 75% of students prefer not to engage in long-distance field trips In light of this, Luot Mountain emerges as an ideal study location for students Various subjects, including Plant Identification, Land Use Management, and Water Quality, have increasingly incorporated Luot Mountain as a key study site, making it a convenient and accessible option for educational excursions.
The resources of Luot Mountain significantly enhance net social values; however, it is essential to establish effective methods for measuring the actual value of Luot Mountain for research and study purposes.
In evaluating natural resources, selecting an appropriate method is crucial This study utilizes the Replacement Cost Method (RCM) due to its straightforward emphasis on the educational and scientific research values of Luot Mountain, in contrast to more complex methods like the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM) or Travel Cost Method (TCM) The RCM, which considers preventive expenditure and opportunity cost, offers a valid alternative for assessing educational value, as it requires less data and resources compared to preference-based methods (Sandra Notaroa, 2012).
The Resource Compensation Model (RCM) evaluates the costs of substituting natural ecosystem services with artificial alternatives, asserting that these costs should not exceed the benefits derived from the original ecosystem services If the costs are miscalculated, it can lead to an inaccurate representation of the public's willingness to pay or accept, ultimately inflating the perceived value of these services.
One limitation of the Replacement Cost Method (RCM) is that expenditures for replacement often fail to accurately reflect the benefits derived from ecosystem services, as artificial technologies typically do not replicate the full range of services provided by natural ecosystems This can result in an undervaluation of the ecosystem's true worth Consequently, the RCM is better suited for estimating the economic value of individual ecosystem services or a select few, rather than capturing the comprehensive value of all services Additionally, the challenge of identifying perfect substitutes further complicates the application of this method.
The Replacement Cost Method (RCM) offers significant advantages, including easy access to cost information and reduced time requirements compared to other valuation techniques This makes RCM a cost-effective alternative for valuing environmental goods and services (Gunatilake and Vieth, 2000) Consequently, we chose to focus our thesis on the topic: “Evaluation of Education and Scientific Research Values of Luot Mountain – An Application of the Replacement Cost Method.”
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
Goal
The main goal of the thesis is to assess education and scientific research values of Luot mountain by using Replacement Cost Method (RCM).
Objectives
The specific objectives of the research are:
- To assess ecological characteristics of Luot mountain;
- To assess potential education and scientific research activities in Luot mountain for students of Vietnam National University of Forestry;
- To apply the Replacement Cost Method (RCM) to evaluate education and scientific research values of Luot mountain;
- To propose recommendations for sustainable use and management for education and scientific research of Luot mountain.
STUDY SITE AND METHODOLOGIES
Study site
Figure 1 Map of Luot mountain in Xuan Mai – Chuong My – Ha Noi
Luot Mountain, part of the experimental forest of Vietnam National University of Forestry, is situated in Xuan Mai Town, Chuong My District, Hanoi It lies 45 kilometers southeast of Hoa Binh Province and 35 kilometers northwest of Ha Dong District, making it a notable geographic landmark in the region.
Located at 22° 0' 50.3" North latitude and 105° 30' 45" East longitude, this area is bordered by national road No 21A to the east, Hoa Son Commune in Luong Son District to the west, Xuan Mai Town to the south, and Team 06 of the Cuu Long tea farm to the north.
Luot Mountain boasts a strategic geographical location, situated just 27 kilometers from the heart of Hanoi and 39 kilometers from Hoa Binh City, making it easily accessible via national roads This advantageous positioning positions Luot Mountain as a promising area for enhancing environmental values through sustainable silviculture activities.
Luot Mountain spans approximately 133 hectares and features a simple topography characterized by low and medium hills The landscape consists of two connected hills that extend about 2 kilometers from east to west The highest peak reaches an elevation of 133 meters above sea level, with an average slope of 150 degrees and a maximum slope that varies across the terrain.
270 The second highest peak hill is 76 meters above sea level The exposure direction is northeast, northwest and southeast There is no stream found in this area
The favorable topography supports plantation efforts, with the catchment area predominantly featuring Acacia, Pine, Eucalyptus, and native species like Erythrophleum fordii, Fernandoa brilletii, and Dalbergia Tonkinensis To combat soil erosion in steep areas, it is advisable to plant trees with a higher canopy cover and consider alternative rearrangements Additionally, incorporating fast-growing shrubs in the forest's shrub layer can promote the quicker growth of woody trees.
Yellowish-brown feralit soil forms on Poocfiarit rocks, with thicker soil layers found at the base of two hills—specifically on the southeast side of the lower hill and the southwest side of the higher hill In contrast, thinner soil layers are predominantly located at the summits of the hills, where they are interspersed with numerous rocks.
The soil in this area exhibits similar characteristics and formations, with the primary differences lying in the soil layers and the proportion of mixed stones Its mechanical composition ranges from average soil to medium clay The presence of Acacia has notably enhanced the soil texture, resulting in an organic content of 2% to 3% and a pH level below 7 Additionally, the soil accumulates significant amounts of aluminum and iron, leading to its acidic nature and a low capacity for phosphorus retention, which results in very low phosphate content.
The soil structure in this area is notably compact, particularly at the surface of the hills Additionally, the low organic content indicates minimal accumulation processes occurring beneath the canopy.
Luot Mountain features a humid tropical climate influenced by its northern latitude and monsoon mechanisms The region experiences a rainy season from April to October, followed by a dry season that lasts from November to March Winters are characterized by cold and dry conditions.
The region experiences an average annual temperature of 23.2°C, with peak summer months (July and August) averaging 28.5°C and the coldest month (January) averaging 16.5°C During the hot season, from May to September, temperatures exceed 25°C, while the cold season, spanning December to March, sees averages below 20°C The remaining months maintain average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C.
Total annual rainfall is 1,753 millimeters; average rainfall is 146 millimeters The rainfall is unevenly distributed The highest monthly rainfall is
The average monthly rainfall peaks at 312 millimeters during July and August, while January experiences the lowest rainfall at just 15 millimeters Humidity levels are generally high, averaging 84%, though they fluctuate significantly throughout the year Additionally, the total annual evaporation contributes to the region's unique climate dynamics.
602 millimeters; the highest evaporation is in May with 78.5 millimeters; the lowest evaporation is in February with 47.6 millimeters
The area experiences two primary wind patterns: the southeast monsoon from April to October and the northeast monsoon from November to March Additionally, from April to June, the southwest wind also influences the region These climatic conditions foster a rich diversity of tropical vegetation on Luot Mountain, supporting various woody trees such as Erythrophleum fordii, Fernandoa brilletii, and Acacia, as well as numerous fruit trees including mango, litchi, and longan.
The region features two prominent rivers, the Bui River and Tich River, covering a total area of 29.43 hectares In addition, various water bodies such as Vai Bon Lake and Tran Dam are present, ensuring adequate water supply for crops and other land uses However, the deep groundwater poses challenges for plant growth during hot weather conditions.
The biological diversity of Luot Mountain encompasses the wide array of life forms and their intricate processes, highlighting the variety of living organisms, their genetic variations, and the ecosystems they inhabit This rich biodiversity is particularly evident in the flora, showcasing the unique plant species that thrive in this mountainous region.
Luot Mountain spans 67 hectares and is home to a diverse range of tree species, including Pinus massoniana, Acacia auriculiformis, and Eucalyptus urophylla, along with over 300 indigenous plant species (Anh Ha Quang, 2018) The mountain features seven main types of forests, classified based on the predominant mature species, with forest areas ranging from 0.13 to 6.19 hectares, predominantly featuring Pinus massoniana and Acacia auriculiformis.
The experiment Luot mountain is recorded with 342 vascular plant species, belong to 257 genera and 90 familiae (Trung Nguyen Truong Dinh,
Research methodology
A number of secondary data were collected:
- The data on natural conditions, climate, hydrology, soil, topography, forest resources of Luot mountain;
- The data on subjects that students have to take field - studies at Luot mountain conducted from the Academic Affair Division of VNUF;
- The reports of the researches of students and researchers in Luot mountain
To evaluate the expenses associated with field studies for VNUF students in locations like national parks and nature reserves, we conducted a survey utilizing semi-structured interviews.
The sample size is 36 students from majors which have field - studies to other places as national parks or natural reserves
Nr Field of study Courses to take field study Locations
Biological diversity Forest Ecogeography Forest ecology
Forest vegetation management Forest Zoology
Geology of Natural Resources Hydro – Meteorology
Integrated ecosystem management Introduction to Soil Science
Land use and water quality National Parks & Protected Area Management Natural Resource Sampling
Natural Resource Ecology & Measurement Plant identification
Cat Ba National Park Cuc Phuong National Park Tay Thien - Tam Dao National Park
Principles of Watershed Management Soil science
Afforestation Entomology Forest fire Management Forest Pathology and Disease Management Forest Plant
Forest Resources Management Forest Seedling
Forest Vegetation Management Forest Zoology
Hydro – Meteorology Plant Identification Principles of Watershed Management
Ba Vi National Park Cuc Phuong National Park Tay Thien - Tam Dao National Park
Ba Vi National Park Tay Thien - Tam Dao National Park
Forest Planning Forest Plant Forest Seedling Soil science Silviculture Wood Science
Genegineering Microbiological Technology Plant cell Technology
The questionnaire, designed in Vietnamese, includes both multiple choice and open-ended questions aimed at gathering essential information about the interviewees, such as their age, gender, and major It also seeks to estimate the costs incurred for each field trip and to capture their perspectives on the educational and scientific research potential of Luot Mountain.
SWOT tool was used to assess the status of Luot mountain by strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats
Opportunities Use strengths to take opportunities
Overcome weakness that stopping us to opportunities
Threats Use strengths to reduce threats
Overcome weakness that can be threats b Descriptive statistic
The data gathered from interviews will be analyzed with Excel software to calculate the average and total costs incurred by students for each field trip Additionally, this analysis will highlight the perceived educational and scientific research values of Luot Mountain from the students' perspective, utilizing the RCM method for estimation.
The basic premise of the RCM is that the cost is no greater than the benefits accruing from the ecosystem service in question If not, the RCM
The method discussed misrepresents key valuation concepts, such as willingness to pay or accept, leading to an inflated value estimate (Farber et al., 2002, p 389) Additionally, it disregards the relevance of secondary benefits from the replacement system, which, if considered, could further exaggerate the perceived value.
To identify suitable substitutes for Luot Mountain, we examined national parks and natural reserves that university students frequently visit for field studies Data collected from the Academic Affair Division of VNUF revealed four primary locations: Cat Ba National Park, Cuc Phuong National Park, Ba Vi National Park, and Tam Dao National Park Additionally, other significant sites such as Xuan Thuy National Park, Xuan Son National Park, Xuan Lien National Park, and the Truong Son Mountains are essential for certain academic subjects This analysis helps us determine the potential alternatives Luot Mountain can offer.
To assess the costs associated with field studies at various locations, we inquired about the estimated expenses students incur for a single field study This allowed us to calculate the average total costs that students from each curriculum must bear The final results reflect the overall expenses related to education and research conducted in external settings.
The interview data revealed notable differences and disadvantages regarding students' interest in visiting Luot Mountain for field studies at VNUF.
Fourthly, calculate total cost of all field - study for 1 cohort in 6 field of studies (Natural resource management; Forest resource management; Silviculture; Environmental Science ; Biotechnology; Land management)
Finally, to calculate cost differences between field-study in Luot mountain and replaced places base on student survey and previous calculation.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS
Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of Luot mountain
Luot Mountain, situated within the university grounds, offers students convenient access for studying and research, unlike national parks and nature reserves that are located farther away.
The experimental forest has plenty of fauna and flora species There are
The forest in Xuan Mai Town, Chuong My District, is home to 156 vertebrate species across 60 families, including 21 rare species Additionally, it hosts 409 insect species from 87 families, with Lepidoptera comprising 208 of these species The area is rich in biodiversity, featuring 342 vascular plant species belonging to 257 genera and 90 families (Trung Nguyen Truong Dinh, 2017) Favorable natural conditions, including a humid tropical climate and stable hydrology, support the growth of these species, while the forest remains largely unaffected by natural disasters such as floods, storms, and earthquakes.
The experimental forest operates independently of timber production, as VNUF's policies prohibit any businesses related to logging and timber sales, ensuring significant protective measures are in place.
The experimental forest is a narrow region characterized by the absence of streams and low phosphorus retention in the soil, resulting in minimal phosphate levels Additionally, the low organic content indicates limited accumulation processes occurring beneath the canopy.
Besides, the humid climate is the main reason which causes many diseases on plants There are many researches on these diseases such as:
Research has been conducted on various leaf diseases affecting Eucalyptus Camaldulensis Dehn and Pinus Massoniana Lamb on Luot Mountain, highlighting the need for effective management solutions Notable studies include Pham Anh Thuong's 1999 investigation into Eucalyptus leaf diseases, Dang Huu Dung's 2000 research on leaf pests of Acasia Mangium Wild, and Le Huu Hao's 2017 proposals for addressing issues related to Pinus Massoniana These studies contribute to the understanding of forest health and pest management in the region.
Because of many strengths Luot mountain has, the opportunities for this are also significantly mentioned
First, Luot mountain has potential values in education and scientific researching because of its diversity and suitable location for students in VNUF
Second, Luot mountain has opportunities to become a natural reserve that can reserve genes and develop numerous species
Luot Mountain is increasingly attracting international students and researchers, particularly through programs like the Tropical Forest Master Program This initiative allows students from various countries to study in the university's experimental forest, receiving positive feedback for the enriching educational experience it offers.
Awareness of students and local people affect a lot on the experimental forest Uncontrollably growing trash and grazing significantly effect on the development of the forest
A small group of students from Vietnam National University of Forestry poses a threat to Luot Mountain, as a survey indicates that 10% of them prefer other locations for field studies The primary reason for this preference is Luot Mountain’s location, with some students expressing a desire for more distant field studies to explore diverse environments Additionally, they believe that Luot Mountain lacks the biodiversity necessary for comprehensive research, despite the presence of numerous species in its experimental forest, which cannot compete with the richness found in national parks or nature reserves.
Potential education and scientific research values of Luot mountain
4.2.1 Potential education values of Luot mountain
There are a total of 540 subjects in the university subjects system; in which, there are 40 subjects that students need to go for a field - study
The Faculty of Forestry and the Faculty of Forest Resources and Environment Management offer a range of courses, including standard programs taught in Vietnamese and advanced programs in English Recently introduced advanced programs include the BSc in Natural Resources Management for Vietnamese students and the MSc in International Tropical Program for both Vietnamese and international students These programs incorporate field studies in subjects such as Afforestation, Forest Ecology, Forest Investigation, Forest Plant, Forest Resources Management, Forest Seedling, Hydro-Meteorology, Plant Identification, and Soil Science.
Table 3 List of subjects VNUF’s students have to go for a field - study
2 Biological Diversity 22 Geology of Natural Resources
5 Ecotourism 25 Introduction to Soil Science
6 Entomology 26 Land use and Water quality
8 Environmental Monitoring 28 Natural Resource Ecology &
9 Forest Eco-geography 29 Natural Resource Recreation and Tourism
10 Forest Ecology 30 Natural Resource Sampling
11 Forest fire Management 31 National Parks & Protected
12 Forest Investigation 32 Plant cell Technology
14 Forest Planning 34 Principles of Animal Biology
15 Forest Plant 35 Principles of Plant Biology
16 Forest Product Exploitation 36 Principles of Watershed
19 Forest Vegetation Management 39 Spatial Information
Based on survey data analysis, students have 20 potential subjects for field studies in the experimental forest on Luot Mountain, offering a valuable alternative to visiting national parks and nature reserves.
Table 4 List of subjects that can be practiced in Luot mountain
3 Entomology 13 Geology of Natural Resources
5 Forest Ecology 15 Introduction to Soil Science
6 Forest Fire Management 16 Land Use and Water quality
7 Forest Investigation 17 Natural Resource Sampling
10 Forest Resources Management 20 Spatial Information
Luot Mountain offers numerous advantages and opportunities, making it an ideal location for students to study and train Its rich biodiversity not only enhances the educational experience but also serves as an excellent site for research activities.
4.2.2 Potential scientific research values of Luot mountain
There are more than 230 researches on Luot mountain These research topics are very diverse such as research on species like plants, insects, mushrooms, etc or natural conditions in here
Recent studies on Luot Mountain have highlighted significant findings, including "Insects Composition on Luot Mountain" by Le Bao Thanh and Bui Van Bac (2015), which explores the diverse insect population in the area, and "Research on the Potential Capacity of Infiltration on Luot Mountain" by Pham Van Dien and Vu Thi Quynh Nga (2009), which examines the mountain's water infiltration capabilities.
Research conducted on Luot Mountain has focused on various environmental aspects, including soil texture distribution (Phi Dang Son & Nguyen Truong Dinh Trung, 2017) and carbon stock in forest plantations (Ha Quang Anh, 2018) Studies have evaluated the impact of different vegetation cover types on overland flow generation and soil erosion (Chao Thi Yen, 2014), as well as assessed silviculture practices in the experimental forest of Xuan Mai, Chuong My, Hanoi (Vu Tuan Anh, 2014) Additional research has explored butterfly diversity (Nguyen Van Linh, 2015), methods for determining canopy coverage (Hoang Thu Yen, 2016), and the diseases affecting Pinus massoniana Lamb (Le Huu Hao, 2017) Furthermore, investigations into the biological diversity and ecology of mushrooms (Dong Thi Hai Yen, 2018) and the natural regeneration of forests (Ngo Thi Anh Thu, 2018) have also been conducted, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the ecological dynamics in Luot Mountain.
Research on Luot Mountain focuses primarily on its biodiversity, including both fauna and flora, as well as its natural conditions and environmental functions, such as carbon storage and landscape enhancement These research areas provide valuable opportunities for education and scientific inquiry, particularly for courses like Natural Resources Management and Forest Resources Management, under the mentorship of experienced lecturers.
The research conducted in Luot Mountain, guided by esteemed professors, focuses on crucial environmental topics such as the impact of vegetation cover types on overland flow generation and soil erosion, as explored in Chao Thi Yen's study, and the natural regeneration of forests, investigated by Ngo Thi Anh Thu This area is recognized as an exceptional site for scientific research by students at Vietnam National University of Forestry.
Estimating education and scientific research values of Luot mountain
4.3.1 Estimated costs for field - study in other places
The costs associated with field studies vary significantly across different locations and time periods, influenced by individual student budgeting A survey of 36 students from six diverse courses—Natural Resources Management, Forest Resources Management, Silviculture, Biotechnology, Environmental Sciences, and Land Management—revealed the average cost (AC) incurred by a student for a field study in a different area The analysis identified five primary types of expenditures: travel costs, living expenses, meal costs, study materials, and miscellaneous expenses The findings are detailed in the accompanying table.
Table 5 Average cost students have to pay for a field-study in another place
Nr Types of expenditure Max Min Average
A recent student survey revealed that the costs associated with field studies vary significantly, with expenses ranging from a minimum of 1 million VND to a maximum of 5 million VND The majority of these costs are attributed to living expenses and meals, while study materials represent the least significant expense at only 50 thousand VND Overall, the total costs are influenced by the distance and duration of the field study, indicating that longer stays result in higher expenses.
The average expense for a student participating in a field study in another location is 3 million VND The Academic Affairs Division of VNUF indicates that students typically engage in three field studies throughout their academic program.
Average total costs (ATC) for 1 cohort = AC of 1 field – study * 3 field-studies
Each student enrolled in the designated group of courses is required to pay 9 million VND for field studies during their cohort.
In 6 subjects Natural resource management (both advanced and standard program), Forest resource management, Silviculture, Environmental Science, Biotechnology and Land management; there are total 635 students of K60 have to go for field – studies The total average costs they have to pay for those field – studies is 5,715 million VND per cohort (Table 6)
Table 6 Number of students taken field - study and average cost according to the field of study
Nr Field of study Number of students/cohort
Average cost/student/ field-studies (VND)
1 Natural resource management (both advanced and standard program)
(Sources: Academic Affair Division of VNUF, Students survey, 2019) 4.3.2 The difference between field - study at Luot mountain and other places
A recent survey conducted among 36 students from various majors revealed that 90% prefer Luot Mountain for their field study over other locations The strong preference for Luot Mountain is attributed to several compelling reasons.
Students can significantly reduce expenses by choosing to conduct field studies in the experimental forest on Luot Mountain rather than traveling to more distant locations like national parks or nature reserves The costs associated with travel, accommodation, and study fees can accumulate quickly when visiting places such as Cuc Phuong National Park, Tay Thien – Tam Dao National Park, Cat Ba National Park, or Xuan Lien Natural Reserve Notably, Ba Vi National Park, the closest option, is still a considerable distance away, making Luot Mountain an economical choice for students.
Students face significant living costs, including accommodation, meals, and other expenses, particularly during their final field study, which lasts approximately 3 to 4 weeks and can cost between 3 to 5 million VND Conducting the field study at Luot Mountain could lead to substantial savings, as 100% of students believe they would save money by choosing this location over other alternatives The potential savings percentage is detailed below.
Figure 2 Percentage of money students can save if they choose Luot mountain for a field - study instead of other places
Approximately 50% of students believe they can save between 30% to 50% on costs compared to attending a different location for field studies, while 25% of students estimate potential savings of 50% to 70% (see Figure 2).
Percentage of money students can save
Conducting scientific research at Luot Mountain offers significant cost savings compared to other locations, with students estimating they can save nearly 50% by choosing this site for field studies.
Thirty-five percent of students consider Luot Mountain an excellent location for studying and research due to its favorable infrastructure and rich biodiversity Its proximity within the university barrier allows easy access for students to collect samples from the experimental forest to the laboratory, which is equipped with advanced technology Additionally, Luot Mountain is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and the contributions of founding teachers and researchers at VNUF, such as Tran Cong Loanh, Tran Van Mao, Nguyen The Nha, and Nguyen Kim Oanh, have been documented in the university's library since 1990.
The experimental forest on Luot Mountain offers significant benefits for students and faculty at VNUF, as well as international students and researchers Those enrolled in courses like Tropical Forest or Sustainable Forest Management receive strong recommendations to explore this unique forest, allowing them to apply their theoretical knowledge in a practical setting.
4.3.3 Education and scientific research values of Luot mountain
The costs associated with field studies vary for each student, influenced by their proximity to the university and personal spending on meals and other expenses A survey conducted among 36 students across six courses—Natural Resources Management, Forest Resources Management, Silviculture, Biotechnology, Environmental Sciences, and Land Management—revealed the average cost (AC) of a field study in Luot Mountain The analysis identified five main types of expenditures: travel, living, meals, study materials, and miscellaneous expenses The detailed results are presented in the table below.
Table 7 Average cost students have to pay for field-study in Luot mountain
Nr Types of expenditure Max Min Average
A recent student survey revealed that the cost of a field study in Luot Mountain ranges from a minimum of 560,000 VND to a maximum of 2.4 million VND The majority of expenses are attributed to living and meal costs during the study period Notably, students residing near the university reported zero travel and living costs.
The average cost that one student have to pay for each field – study in Luot mountain is 1.48 million VND
Average total costs (ATC) for 1 cohort = AC of 1 field – study * 3 field-studies
Students enrolled in the designated courses are required to pay 4.44 million VND for field studies during their cohort if they select Luot Mountain as their study location, as opposed to other options.
Table 8 Number of students taken field - study and average cost according to the field of study if student go to Luot mountain
Nr Field of study Number of students/cohort
Average cost/student/ field-studies (VND)
1 Natural resource management (both advanced and standard program)
(Sources: Academic Affair Division of VNUF, Students survey, 2019)