Background

Vietnam has been identified as one of the countries most vulnerable
to the impacts of climate change. Its Mekong Delta is one of the most
important agricultural regions in Vietnam, however, its high density
population living in low lying land is being threatened by rising sea
levels, coastal erosion, and increased water salinity. It is also facing
an increase in the frequency and intensity of natural disasters such as
typhoons, storms and floods.

To help Vietnam cope with the challenges of a changing climate
and environment Australia is supporting the delivery of innovative
technologies and practical climate change solutions to address coastal
erosion, agriculture and aquaculture in the most vulnerable areas.
The program will help ensure natural resources are used sustainably,
ensure ecosystems and livelihoods in the Mekong Delta are more
resilient to climate change and promote sustainable economic growth.

Phase I (2011 – 2014) Results

• 40,000 people are better protected against storms and floods due
  to the construction of innovative, cost-effective and eco-friendly
  Breakwater Fences.
• Rehabilitated 630 ha of mangroves by introducing a new low cost
  technique which is now used by local foresters.
• More than 8,500 farmers understand the need for adapting to a
  changing environment.
• Decreased the use of water and pesticides by 30%, while raising the
  profit for farmers by up to 40%, by introducing the Alternate Wetting
  Drying rice production technique.
• Farmers who keep mangroves in their shrimp ponds have raised
  their profits by 27%, made shrimp less vulnerable to diseases and
  contributed to protecting mangroves at the coast since being taught
  new techniques.
• Authorities better able to coordinate along the coast due to new
  national policies and regulations.

Phase II (2014 – 2018) Expected Results

Phase II will focus on scaling up the technologies developed in Phase I
in order to realise their full impact on a broader scale. This includes:

• Support the Government of Vietnam to refine existing policy and
  develop new policies, drawing upon Australia's unique expertise and
  experience in trans-boundary water governance.
• Establish strategic partnerships with the private sector to draw
  upon private sector experience in climate-resilient development and
  increase investment in the region.
• Better cooperation and exchange of knowledge between the
  program and Australian research organisations, such as CSIRO
  and ACIAR.
• Australian and Vietnamese businesses are better informed of
  investment opportunities in the Mekong Delta.
• Ensure investment plans are climate resilient by completing
  feasibility studies in water management and coastal protection.
• Ensure women are more involved in planning and implementing
  climate change and disaster preparedness processes.