Project Description
The Sustainable Forest Planting Project in Yen Lap District, Phu Tho Province, spans an area of 22 hectares, featuring four main tree species: Dalbergia tonkinensis, Michelia tonkinensis, Dalbergia cochinchinensis, and Hopea odorata. Previously, this land was used for short-term acacia plantations. However, since 2019, the forest owner has restructured and transitioned the area into a long-term plantation model with a focus on sustainable development.
In addition to cultivating high-value timber species such as Dalbergia tonkinensis, Michelia tonkinensis, Dalbergia cochinchinensis, and Hopea odorata, the forest owner plans to interplant medicinal plants under the forest canopy in the future to enhance both economic value and biodiversity.
Stakeholders and local communities involved in the project
The key stakeholders in the project include the forest owner, local authorities, the Yen Lap District Forestry Department, the Forest Protection Department in Phu Tho Province, and the local community. The forest owner manages and invests in the 22-hectare sustainable forest project, focusing on Dalbergia tonkinensis (Gu Huong), Michelia tonkinensis (Doi), Dalbergia cochinchinensis (Trac), and Hopea odorata (Sao Den), with plans to interplant medicinal plants.
Local authorities support the project through policy guidance and oversight, ensuring compliance with forest protection regulations. The project also engages over 10 local residents in forest care and management, improving livelihoods and raising awareness about environmental conservation.
This collaboration fosters environmental protection and creates a replicable sustainable economic model for other areas in Phu Tho Province.
Project Goals
The project aims primarily to absorb a significant amount of CO2, thereby contributing to greenhouse gas emission reductions and supporting Vietnam's national commitment to achieving the emission reduction targets set at COP26. The combination of Dalbergia tonkinensis, Michelia tonkinensis, Dalbergia cochinchinensis, and Hopea odorata enhances biodiversity while preserving and restoring natural forest ecosystems.
For the local community, the project provides stable and long-term employment opportunities, ranging from seedling cultivation, forest planting and management, to harvesting medicinal plant products interplanted under the forest canopy. This not only improves the economic well-being of the local population but also raises awareness about the value of forests and sustainable environmental practices.
Co-benefits
The sustainable forest planting project in Yen Lap District aims to absorb CO2, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and provide environmental and community benefits.
Biodiversity: Planting Dalbergia tonkinensis, Michelia tonkinensis, Dalbergia cochinchinensis, Hopea odorata, and medicinal plants creates a diverse ecosystem.
Soil improvement: Long-term trees enhance water retention, prevent erosion, and improve fertility.
Livelihoods: Provides stable jobs for 10+ locals and additional income from medicinal plants.
Awareness: Engages the community in forest conservation and sustainable development.
The project combines carbon absorption with economic, social, and environmental benefits, contributing to improved livelihoods and natural resource protection.
Tree species (planted and/or existing)
Dalbergia tonkinensis, Michelia tonkinensis, Dalbergia cochinchinensis, Hopea odorata
Tree density (trees/ha)
750