The merger of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to form the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment is not merely an administrative change. Still, it reflects a strategic mindset about the close relationship between these two sectors. If planned and developed sustainably, agriculture will be central to addressing environmental challenges while fostering a green, stable, and efficient economy.
The integrated Agriculture and Environment model
Establishing the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment is a strategic move, reflecting the inevitable trend of sustainable development. Agriculture is not merely a production sector but an integral global ecosystem. When managed wisely, agriculture can become a key solution for environmental protection while fostering a green, stable, and long-term economy.
For a long time, agriculture has been seen as a sector heavily dependent on natural resources, particularly land, water, and air. However, this approach is no longer suitable in the face of escalating climate change and environmental degradation. Rather than viewing agriculture solely as a resource-consuming industry, it must now be recognized as a crucial solution for ecological conservation and restoration.
The model of 1 million hectares of low-emission rice in the Mekong Delta. Illustration photoAgriculture as a Solution for Environmental Protection
One of the biggest challenges facing the agricultural sector today is environmental pollution caused by the overuse of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Promoting organic farming practices and using bio-fertilizers and biological products is crucial to reducing soil and water pollution. The livestock sector also needs more effective waste management solutions. Implementing circular livestock farming models — where animal waste is processed into organic fertilizers or biogas — reduces pollution and generates renewable energy.
An essential approach to minimizing agriculture's negative environmental impacts is ecological agriculture. Applying organic farming, crop rotation, and circular agriculture practices protects soil and water resources and fosters a balanced agricultural ecosystem. By respecting natural laws, agriculture does not destroy the environment but helps restore what has been lost.
For example, agroforestry models — combining forest planting with agricultural production — are being adopted by many countries as a key strategy to reduce carbon emissions, improve soil quality, and protect biodiversity.
The advancement of science and technology creates significant opportunities to enhance agricultural productivity without harming the environment. The agriculture and environment sectors must embrace biotechnology, artificial intelligence (AI), and big data in agricultural production to improve resource efficiency and minimize environmental impact.
For instance, smart irrigation systems can optimize water usage, conserving water resources amid increasing droughts. Additionally, genetically modified crops with enhanced pest resistance reduce the need for chemical pesticides, contributing to environmental protection.
From Production to Agricultural economy mindset
The development of agriculture cannot stop at mere production; it must shift towards an agricultural economy model, focusing on value chains and sustainable development.
Vietnam is gradually shaping and developing agriculture toward a green economy. Specifically, building organic material zones combined with processing industries and eco-tourism will generate higher added value while protecting natural resources.
In addition, the role of agricultural cooperatives and enterprises needs to be strengthened. New-style cooperatives and green agricultural enterprises should be encouraged to create sustainable supply chains for international markets. Establishing these supply chains, combined with applying technology to control product quality and optimize production, will enhance the agricultural sector's competitiveness while ensuring a balance between economic development and environmental protection.