Can Tho plants 240,000 trees to restore coastal ecosystems

[VOVWORLD] - The Can Tho Department of Agriculture and Environment, in collaboration with the Community Fund for Disaster Prevention and Control and the Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BIDV), held ceremony on Thursday in Lai Hoa commune to plant 240,000 trees.

Reforestation activities in the coastal alluvial plains of Can Tho. (Photo: sggp.org.vn)

The initiative is part of the Prime Minister's nationwide campaign to plant one billion trees, and aims to mitigate the impacts of declining protective forest systems, rising sea levels, drought, and storms.

Tran Chi Hung, Vice Chairman of the Can Tho People's Committee, said that mangrove ecosystems play a crucial role in buffering waves, preventing coastal erosion, safeguarding sea and river dikes, and acting as a "green lung," contributing to climate regulation and biodiversity conservation.

He added: "All departments, agencies, local authorities, and relevant agencies need to prioritize proper planting techniques and ensure the quality of seedlings. At the same time, management, care, and protection efforts must be strengthened to ensure that newly planted forests grow sustainably and deliver long-term benefits. Local communities must work together to protect the forests, recognizing them as a valuable asset, and a "shield" that safeguards their own lives."

At least 50 hectares of forest are expected to be planted in the coastal areas of Can Tho city.