November 10, 2023

New farming techniques in Vietnam slash greenhouse gas emissions in shrimp farms

New agricultural methods in Vietnam have successfully reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by nearly 17% in extensive shrimp farms and almost 11% in intensive farms, according to research conducted on monitoring GHG emissions from shrimp farming ponds, Vietnam Plus reported.

Part of the "Energy transition and climate change mitigation in Mekong Delta" project, co-funded by ActionAid Vietnam and Bread for the World from 2021 to 2023, the research brought to light significant insights. Associate Professor Dr Le Anh Tuan, a senior lecturer from Can Tho University leading the research team, revealed that GHG emissions in intensive shrimp farming models were 15 times higher than those in extensive models.

The study identified farming density, pond dredging, and shrimp breeding as key factors influencing GHG emissions in extensive shrimp farming ponds. In contrast, electricity and shrimp feed emerged as the primary sources of emissions in intensive shrimp farming, accounting for 82% and 17% of total GHG emissions, respectively.

Dr Tuan presented a range of solutions to reduce GHG emissions, including cutting electricity consumption, transitioning to renewable energy, employing biogas composting for shrimp waste treatment, optimizing shrimp feed intake, adjusting feeding methods, altering shrimp stocking density, and enhancing water treatment systems to prevent shrimp diseases.

Nine months into the implementation of these solutions, extensive shrimp farming models experienced a 16.9% reduction in GHG emissions, while intensive shrimp farming models saw a decrease of 10.8%.

Nguyen Trung Hieu, Vice Director of the Bac Lieu Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, stressed Bac Lieu's commitment to expanding intensive shrimp farms to mitigate environmental impact. He highlighted the importance of disseminating information about major emission sources and the efficacy of emission reduction measures among shrimp farmers.

Associate Professor Nguyen Hieu Trung, Vice Principal of Can Tho University, emphasised the significance of such research in raising public awareness about emission reduction and ensuring the sustainability of the aquaculture industry in the Mekong Delta region. This effort aligns with Vietnam's commitment to implementing the United Nations' sustainable development goals.

-      Vietnam Plus