Addressing Landslides and Erosion: Mekonglink’s Efforts in Tien Giang Province, Vietnam
I. Understanding and Tackling Environmental Challenges in Tien Giang Province
A. Overview of Environmental Issues in Tien Giang
Tien Giang Province is located in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam and is known for its fertile agricultural lands and extensive waterways. However, these geographical features also make the province vulnerable to serious environmental problems, especially riverbank erosion, landslides, and saline intrusion. These issues have been worsened by climate change, causing more frequent and severe natural disasters that impact local communities, agricultural practices, and critical infrastructure.
B. Key Environmental Problems in Tien Giang
Tien Giang faces several pressing environmental challenges that threaten its sustainable development. The Prime Minister of Vietnam, Pham Minh Chinh, has emphasized the importance of addressing these issues, especially those posed by climate change, such as landslides, subsidence (ground sinking), and saline intrusion [Source: Tien Giang urged to prioritise sustainable growth, address climate challenges].
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Riverbank Erosion:
Local authorities in Tien Giang province have taken steps, such as building stone embankments, to address riverbank erosion. Riverbank erosion is a significant concern in Tien Giang, with more than 50 severe cases reported in 2021, affecting a total length of 2,700 meters [Source: Tiền Giang steps up measures to prevent erosion along water bodies]. This erosion leads to the loss of valuable agricultural land and increases the risk of flooding. In some areas of the Mekong Delta, erosion rates have been recorded as high as 50 meters per year, posing a serious threat to local livelihoods and infrastructure [Source: Tien Giang urged to prioritise sustainable growth, address climate challenges].
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Landslides:
Landslides, especially during the rainy season, pose a significant risk in Tien Giang. In 2020, landslides affected over 1,000 households in the Mekong Delta, causing substantial damage to infrastructure. The combination of heavy rainfall and unstable soil conditions increases the risk of landslides, impacting both residential areas and agricultural lands [Source: Tien Giang master plan: marine and urban economy as growth engines]. -
Saline Intrusion:
Saline intrusion, caused by rising sea levels and climate change, is another pressing issue in Tien Giang. This phenomenon leads to the contamination of freshwater sources, making them unsuitable for agricultural use and human consumption. Addressing saline intrusion is crucial for ensuring the province’s long-term water security and agricultural productivity [Source: Tien Giang urged to prioritise sustainable growth, address climate challenges].
C. Why Mekonglink Started the Environmental Project
To tackle these urgent problems, Mekonglink launched the 2024 DG9+ Glocal Capstone Design project with Tien Giang University as part of its broader ESG Living Lab program. The project’s goal is to develop sustainable solutions that directly benefit the Tien Giang community. By focusing on local needs and engaging with the community, the project aims to implement practical, long-term strategies to mitigate the effects of landslides and riverbank erosion.
II. Efforts to Understand Local Problems and Propose Solutions
A. Identifying the Challenges in Tien Giang
Tien Giang Province faces several serious environmental problems, especially riverbank erosion. This issue is severe, causing visible damage such as mud buildup and collapsing ground. The erosion of the riverbanks is a constant threat to local communities, leading to the loss of land and increasing the risk of damage to buildings and infrastructure. These ongoing issues show an urgent need for sustainable solutions to prevent further environmental damage and economic loss.
B. Innovative Solutions Proposed by the Student Teams
To address the problem of riverbank erosion in Tien Giang, the student teams developed several creative and sustainable solutions that use natural methods and minimal engineering:
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Planting Mangroves:
Mangroves are very effective at protecting coastlines from erosion. The roots and branches of mangroves help reduce the force of waves, making them less damaging compared to artificial barriers. Planting mangroves not only stops further erosion but also acts as a natural barrier to protect the land from strong natural disasters. -
Comparing Different Plants for Erosion Control:
The teams studied various plants to find the best options for preventing landslides and riverbank erosion:-
Comparison Analysis: Landslide & Riverbank Erosion Control
Cork Trees Mangroves Coconut Trees Bamboo Advantages – Prevents landslides – Protects coastlines – Flexible – Fast growth – Coastal protection – Enhances biodiversity – Fast growth – Elasticity – Biodiversity support – Controls erosion – Erosion control – Strong root systems – Controls erosion Challenges – Competes with native species – Specific environmental needs – Easily damaged by wind – Prone to landslides – Changes in living conditions – Slow growth – High maintenance cost – Risk of invasiveness – High maintenance cost – High maintenance cost
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Combining Natural and Engineered Barriers:
The teams also suggested using a mix of engineered solutions and natural materials, like gravel and plant roots, to strengthen the riverbanks. This approach provides immediate stability while also allowing natural growth to ensure long-term protection and sustainability.
These solutions use a balanced approach that combines natural methods with minimal engineering to protect Tien Giang’s environment. The focus on sustainable practices aims to help the local community become more resilient against ongoing environmental threats.
III. Benefits for the Tien Giang Community
A. Increasing Environmental Awareness
The project emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing environmental challenges such as landslides and riverbank erosion. By engaging with local communities to identify these issues, the project raises awareness about the impact of environmental changes on daily life. This initial phase is crucial for gathering insights and understanding the unique conditions of Tien Giang, laying the groundwork for sustainable practices that protect land, homes, and agricultural areas in the long run.
B. Building Economic Stability
Recognizing the link between environmental health and economic stability, the project aims to protect Tien Giang’s farmland and infrastructure from erosion-related damage. By proposing tailored solutions, the project helps to safeguard local livelihoods and minimize potential economic losses. However, finding the most effective solutions requires input and participation from various community members, ensuring that any strategy developed is economically viable and beneficial for all.
C. Encouraging Community Participation and Empowerment
The project’s success relies on the active participation of the local community. By involving residents, farmers, and local organizations in the planning and decision-making process, the project fosters a sense of ownership and empowerment. Training sessions and workshops are designed to educate and equip the community with the knowledge needed to manage environmental risks. However, the project acknowledges that achieving long-term success will depend on continuous collaboration and support from all sectors of the community. This collaborative approach ensures that the solutions are not only practical but also supported and sustained by the people they are meant to help.
IV. Future Plans and How to Get Involved
A. Expanding ESG Living Labs
Looking ahead, Mekonglink is committed to building on the knowledge gained from this initial phase to develop and expand solutions through its ESG Living Lab initiative. This program focuses on promoting environmental, social, and governance (ESG) sustainability in Tien Giang and other vulnerable regions. Future efforts will replicate successful strategies in other areas facing similar environmental challenges.
B. Call for Broader Community Involvement
Mekonglink encourages businesses, investors, local leaders, and community members across Asia, not just in Tien Giang, to support and expand these ESG Living Lab initiatives. Your participation is key to scaling these environmental protection efforts and creating sustainable solutions that benefit local communities. By working together, we can build a safer, more resilient future for Tien Giang and beyond. We invite all stakeholders who are interested in contributing or learning more about our future projects to connect with us through our website. Your involvement can make a difference in shaping a sustainable future for communities across the region.
V. Towards a Sustainable Future for Tien Giang and Beyond
The initial efforts to address landslides and riverbank erosion in Tien Giang have laid a strong foundation for community resilience and growth. Through the ESG Living Lab, Mekonglink remains dedicated to supporting local communities with innovative, collaborative solutions that promote sustainability and environmental protection. We believe that by extending these initiatives beyond Tien Giang to other regions in Asia, we can foster a network of communities that are better equipped to handle environmental challenges. Together, we can create a more sustainable future that benefits all involved.
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☎️ Contact information:
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Tel: (+84) 364.689.911 / (+84) 364.689.922
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Email: Technology@mekonglink.asia / Community@mekonglink.asia
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