In coastal Cu Lao Dung, Soc Trang, climate change is reshaping daily life. Saltwater intrusion, drought, rising tides, and riverbank erosion are threatening both livelihoods and fragile mangrove ecosystems.
In response, the NMA-V project has supported the establishment of community-based nursery — a practical Nature-based Solution that combines mangrove ecosystem restoration with sustainable livelihood development, while opening opportunities for community-based ecotourism.
Since 2024, two nursery groups have been established, bringing together 20 community members. With modest start-up support (VND 20–25 million, co-invested by members), the nurseries now produce thousands of high-quality mangrove seedlings each year.
Key native species — including sonneratia, rhizophora, and avicennia — are cultivated for reforestation and erosion control. With an average price of VND 25,000 per seedling, the model generates meaningful income while ensuring a stable supply of trees for restoration programmes.
In 2025 alone, the groups supplied approximately 18,000 seedlings for mangrove restoration. Contracts for 2026 continue to secure stable market demand — demonstrating both the quality of the seedlings and the reliability of the community groups.
Every seedling planted contributes to reducing coastal erosion; strengthening natural buffers against rising tides; increasing carbon absorption; creating habitats for aquatic life and supporting aquaculture
Beyond environmental impact, the model strengthens community governance through transparent management, shared ownership, and fair profit distribution. Some groups even reinvest 2.5% of each sale into a “Green Environment Fund,” ensuring long-term sustainability.
The nursery model of Cu Lao Dung shows that ecosystem restoration and livelihood development can go hand in hand. The approach is economically viable, community-owned, and aligned with broader reforestation and climate adaptation efforts across the Mekong Delta.
With continued support from partners and donors, these small nurseries are becoming something much bigger — a living, growing green barrier protecting coastal communities for generations to come.
