Vietnam promotes living in harmony with nature

Located in Ninh Binh province's Nho Quan District, Cuc Phuong National Park, covers an area of 25,000ha and features a rich and diverse flora and fauna typical of tropical rainforest ecosystems. (Photo: VNA)

INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY 2025
“Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development”

Living in harmony with nature is the only path to true sustainability.

This year, the International Day for Biological Diversity (May 22) carries the theme “Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development”, sending a powerful global message: the future of our planet depends on our ability to align nature conservation with economic progress. The theme calls on all nations to step up efforts in the simultaneous implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) and the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

This is not just a slogan – it is a call for a transformational change. The world must shift from development models that exploit natural resources toward strategies that embed nature-based solutions at the heart of both national and global policies.

Vietnam – A Nation Rich in Biodiversity

Vietnam proudly ranks among the 16 countries with the highest biodiversity in the world. However, it also faces the urgent challenge of protecting many species that are now critically endangered. In response, the Vietnamese Government has taken proactive and forward-thinking steps to safeguard its natural heritage.

Central to these efforts is the National Biodiversity Strategy to 2030, with a Vision to 2050, which outlines a comprehensive framework for conservation, sustainable use of biodiversity, and restoration of degraded ecosystems.

Local Actions, National Impact

Across the country, provinces and cities are actively launching practical conservation initiatives. Thanks to these efforts, natural protected areas have expanded, ecosystems are gradually recovering, and community awareness of biodiversity protection is growing.

Remarkable progress has been made, including:

• The discovery of rare and previously unknown species in the wild.

• The recovery of endangered populations.

• The successful commercial cultivation of valuable native species such as Ngoc Linh ginseng (Panax vietnamensis), Anh Vu fish (Semilabeo notabilis), and Ca ho (Catlocarpio siamensis).

A Strong Voice in Global Commitments

Vietnam continues to be an active and responsible member of the international community in biodiversity conservation. The country is a signatory to several critical global treaties, including:

• The UNESCO Convention on the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage (1987)

• The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (1989)

• The Convention on Biological Diversity (1994)

• The CITES Convention on the Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora

These commitments reaffirm Vietnam’s determination to protect not only its own natural treasures but also contribute meaningfully to the preservation of global biodiversity.

Coral reef area within the marine protected zone of Nui Chua National Park in Ninh Hai district, Ninh Thuan province. (Photo: VNA)

JOIN HANDS TO PROTECT BIODIVERSITY – FOR A GREENER, HEALTHIER PLANET

At the United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP15) held in Montreal in late 2022, Vietnam stood alongside over 190 countries in officially endorsing the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) – a comprehensive roadmap that guides global conservation efforts through 2030, with a vision to 2050. This commitment reflects Vietnam’s strong resolve to cooperate with international partners in achieving the framework’s ambitious goals.

To fulfill this commitment, Vietnam has launched the National Biodiversity Strategy to 2030, with a Vision to 2050, which calls for active engagement from all sectors of society – including non-governmental organizations, businesses, and local communities. The strategy encourages broader private sector participation and shared responsibility in protecting biodiversity.

In celebration of the International Day for Biological Diversity 2025, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE) has issued a nationwide call to action. Ministries, agencies, and local communities are encouraged to organize meaningful activities that promote biodiversity conservation. These include intensifying public awareness campaigns, integrating biodiversity topics into educational curricula, and honoring individuals and organizations with outstanding conservation initiatives.

Core actions moving forward include the effective implementation of the National Biodiversity Strategy and the National Biodiversity Conservation Plan for 2021–2030, both aiming to safeguard biodiversity and ensure its sustainable use, while embracing green economy principles and climate resilience.

Other priorities involve the fair and equitable sharing of benefits from genetic resources, strengthening cooperation at both domestic and international levels to attract conservation funding, and promoting sustainable livelihoods for local communities, especially those living in or near protected areas.

The MAE also underscores the critical role of science and technology in building innovative conservation models, enhancing genetic resource management, and improving biodiversity monitoring systems. Cross-border collaboration with neighboring countries is essential in the joint fight against illegal wildlife trade and the exchange of successful conservation practices.

As global biodiversity continues to face serious threats, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment calls upon every citizen to raise awareness, take responsible action, and foster a lifestyle in harmony with nature – because protecting biodiversity today is investing in our shared tomorrow.

"Protect Nature, Preserve Life – Together for Biodiversity!"