a section on activities that can be used in class or in ... Introduction. 04 Objectives ... Answer keys ... 11. 12. 06.
Biodiversity Conservation and Restoration: Living in Harmony with Nature Tools for Teachers and Educators
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Preface The Ministry of Education and Training (MOET) of Viet Nam and UNESCO jointly produced this training series for teachers and educators on Biodiversity Conservation and Restoration: Living in Harmony with Nature. The set of courses comprises six individual components: i) Becoming Bioliterate: Living in Harmony with Nature; ii) Discovering Biodiversity: Taking Pride in Our Nature; iii) Benefits and Services of Biodiversity; iv) Threats and Risks to Biodiversity; v) Biodiversity Conservation and Bioliterate Competences; and, vi) Education for Sustainable Development for Social Transformation.
During the production of these courses, MOET and UNESCO received inputs from various national and international organizations and experts as well as from the schools that took part in the piloting of the courses.
This course on Discovering Biodiversity: Taking Pride in Our Nature helps teachers educate their students on the beauty and diversity of nature in order to instil a sense of appreciation for environmental protection and biodiversity conservation. It introduces Viet Nam's diverse ecosystems and the protected area system that is in place in order to conserve the country's precious and unique biodiversity.
The courses promote creative thinking and a holistic approach to some of our planet's most pressing issues. A contribution to sustainable development will be made by encouraging students, families, schools and communities to be bioliterate.
Careful attention was paid to ensuring that the learning material is presented in a clear and comprehensive manner. Each component includes a section on activities that can be used in class or in an extracurricular setting to develop students' competences in these areas and engage them in a fun and creative way.
MINISTRY OF EDUCATION AND TRAINING Vice Minister
UNESCO VIET NAM Representative of UNESCO to Viet Nam
Dr. Nguyễn Vinh Hiển
Dr. Katherine Muller-Marin
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T���� � C�n��nt� Preface
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04 Introduction 04 Objectives
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Section 1: Viet Nam's ecosystems 08 08 09 10 11 12
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Section 3: Educational activities 110 110 114 116 120 121
What is an ecosystem? Terrestrial ecosystems Wetland ecosystems Marine ecosystems Biological diversity Examples of ecosystems in Viet Nam
Dioramas as miniature replicas of Viet Nam's ecosystems Activity 1: Making ecosystem dioramas Spending time outdoors and designing outdoor activities Activity 2: Ecosystem map and local biodiversity inventory Activity 3: Enriching the biodiversity in your local ecosystem Recommendations for teachers
1�2 Course review 123 Answer keys 125 Glossary
Section 2: Vietnamese natural heritage is recognized internationally 16 22 26 33 38 46 52 60 66 73 78 86 88 94 100 106
Viet Nam’s Biosphere Reserves Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve Western Nghe An Biosphere Reserve Cu Lao Cham-Hoi An Biosphere Reserve Lang Biang Biosphere Reserve Dong Nai Biosphere Reserve Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve Kien Giang Biosphere Reserve Mui Ca Mau Biosphere Reserve Viet Nam’s Geopark: The Dong Van Karst Plateau Viet Nam’s Natural and Mixed World Heritage Sites Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park Ha Long Bay Trang An Landscape Complex Conclusion
126 References
130 Acknowledgements 03
Introduction In this course, we are going to explore Viet Nam's wonderful biodiversity to motivate you to imagine creative and interesting ways to help your students understand the importance of taking pride in Viet Nam’s biodiversity to ensure conservation. In Section 1, we will provide you with useful information and beautiful photographs of the variety of Viet Nam's ecosystems and different types of flora and fauna, some of which you may be discovering for the first time. You will then join us in Section 2 on a visit to several unique places throughout the country that have received international recognition.
We want to make sure all Vietnamese citizens are proud of the natural heritage of their country, which we must preserve with everyone’s responsible participation! Objectives
3. Be able to motivate others to learn about and be proud of the richness of Viet Nam’s biodiversity; 4. Help students develop pride, love and a duty of conservation for their country’s natural resources.
By the end of this course, you will be able to: 1. Identify areas in Viet Nam known for their rich biodiversity; 2. Explain the different types of ecosystems and biological diversity using concrete examples from within Viet Nam and your community;
Finally, in Section 3, we propose a number of educational activities you can use to engage your students to discover the nature surrounding their community, school and home.
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Section 1: Viet Nam's Ecosystems
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This section introduces Viet Nam's diverse ecosystems. By the end of this section, you will be able to: 1. Explain what an ecosystem is; 2. Use examples from Viet Nam to illustrate the diversity of ecosystems. WHAT IS AN ECOSYSTEM? To begin, we first need to know what an ecosystem is. An ecosystem is not only a physical area, but the community formed by the interaction between all living and non-living components in an environment. These non-living components can include geographic and climatic characteristics that affect the physical environment.
Terrestrial ecosystems Terrestrial ecosystems are land-based environments including forests, mountains, deltas, coastal sand dunes and beaches. Terrestrial ecosystems are particularly important in Viet Nam as over 37 per cent of total land area comprises forest cover, including natural forests and plantations. Terrestrial ecosystems also include cultivated or agricultural areas and urban environments. Examples of terrestrial ecosystems:
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Forests
Wetland ecosystems Wetland ecosystems include waterfalls, rivers, lakes and ponds as well as swamps, wet forests and even rivers within caves. Viet Nam has a dense river network with over 2,360 rivers with a length of over 10 kilometres, making wetlands one of the most represented and important ecosystems in Viet Nam.
An ecosystem can be very small or incredibly large. For example, the area surrounding your school is an ecosystem, where you and your students interact with plants, animals, and the environment on a day-to-day basis. Even the area underneath a single rock can be an ecosystem, with insects, microbes and other organisms interacting within their small environment. Similarly, the entire planet can be considered as a single ecosystem, just on a larger scale. There are three primary types of ecosystems: terrestrial ecosystems, wetland ecosystems and marine ecosystems.
Mountains
Examples of wetland ecosystems: Waterfalls
Rice terraces
Rivers Lakes
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Marine ecosystems
BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY WITHIN ECOSYSTEMS
Marine ecosystems not only include oceans, beaches, bays and islands but also coral reefs, salt marshes and mangroves. Marine ecosystems in Viet Nam are very diverse, comprising 20 distinct ecosystem types and thousands of unique marine species.
Ecosystem diversity is a variety of different ecosystems, such as different marine, wetland and terrestrial ecosystems, that belong to a geographical area. It is also important to understand the different levels of diversity within an ecosystem.
Examples of marine ecosystems:
We call the diversity of species within a given area or ecosystem species diversity. This includes all the different animals, plants, fungi and even very small creatures such as bacteria and viruses.
1. Bays
Species diversity within a marine ecosystem Such diversity within the environment contributes to the overall interaction and functioning of an ecosystem: the more interaction and biodiversity there are, the richer the ecosystem is. There can even be significant differences between members of the same species. This genetic diversity is a result of the variety of genes within each species. This means that two members of the same species can look or behave quite differently.
3. Beaches Genetic diversity among the same species of corn
“Warmer environments hold more species than colder ones; wetter areas hold more species than dryer ones; areas with varied topography and climate hold more species than uniform ones; less seasonal areas hold more species than highly seasonal ones; areas at lower elevation hold more species than areas at higher elevation.”
2. Coral Reefs
Source: The UNEP Magazine for Youth: Tunza, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Volume 8, Number 1
5. Islands
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4. Mangrove swamps
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EXAMPLES OF ECOSYSTEM IN VIET NAM Let us first take a look at Viet Nam's lake and river ecosystems. Viet Nam has about 230 lakes covering almost 350 square kilometres, mostly concentrated in the north. Viet Nam also has about 3,000 to 5,000 man-made lakes built for the purposes of irrigation, hydropower and to prevent the build-up of salt in freshwater. Natural lakes are often less diverse than rivers, containing an average of between 19 to 56 species per lake. The total species inhabiting freshwater lakes in Viet Nam includes over 700 species and subspecies.
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The Mekong River Delta has the largest area of mangrove forests which serve as a buffer between terrestrial and wetland/marine ecosystems, playing an important role in reducing the effects of natural disasters.
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In Thai Thuy, Thai Binh Province, the planting of mangrove forests has significantly improved the environment along the coastal area. Fish and tree diversity has grown as a result of the increased protection from the mangroves, which serve as shields that safeguard the shoreline. Source: Vietnam News Agency, 2010 as cited in National State of Environment 2010, Chapter 7: Biodiversity.
Ba Be Lake is the largest natural water lake in Viet Nam, covering over 8 kilometres and located northwest of Ha Noi. According to initial estimates, there are 417 species of trees, hundreds of orchids and medicinal plants, and 319 species of animals, including the endemic snub-nosed gibbon. Source: http://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/957/
Viet Nam’s rivers support a diverse collection of flora and fauna. As mentioned before, Viet Nam has an incredibly dense network of rivers, including many international waterways that originate in other countries. In fact, about two -thirds of Viet Nam’s freshwater resources originate outside of the country. This means that international cooperation on water resource decisions is very important to Viet Nam.
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Diverse forests cover the largest area and support the highest levels of biodiversity in Viet Nam. Forests are found everywhere from high mountains to limestone islands to coastal sand dunes. There are many different types of forest ecosystems with varied biodiversity.
There are, for example, primary forests which are forests that have been able to grow undisturbed for a long period of time. There are also secondary forests which are forests that have suffered from a major disruption, such as fire or deforestation. In 2012 it has been estimated that Viet Nam holds a total of 13.8 million hectares of forest land, 10.4 million hactares of which are primary and secondary forests and 3.4 million hactares of which are planted. That said, forests comprise of 40.7 per cent of Viet Nam’s total land area. Viet Nam has an extensive coastline and a marine zone of about 1 million square kilometres. These diverse ecosystems include more than 3,000 islands and support nearly 2,500 marine fish species, 100 species of mangrove plants and 225 different kinds of shrimp. Coral reefs are a significant component of the marine ecosystems in Viet Nam as they are home to nearly 400 species of reef-building corals. This richness of its
biodiversity is a special aspect of Viet Nam’s ocean ecosystem, found in very few other locales around the world: 90 per cent of all hard coral species known to exist in the Indian and Pacific Oceans have been found in Vietnamese waters! Additionally, there are different types of ecosystems within the oceans in which the species diversity changes at different levels and conditions. For example, temperatures in ocean ecosystems can range from icy cold to boiling hot, drastically changing the types of organisms within each different environment.
Di� y�� �n��? The deep sea, at more than 200 metres deep, still remains a mystery. Humans have only explored a small fraction of the planet’s 300 million square kilometres of ocean floor!
Quiz I
Di� y�� �n��? 1. Fill in the blank(s) In 1992, the World Conservation Monitoring Centre evaluated Viet Nam as one of the 16 most biologically diverse countries in the world. The high geographical diversity of the country results in a high variation in climate, soil and topography, making Viet Nam one of the most ecologically distinct areas in the world.
A/An __________ is the community formed by the interaction between all living and non-living components in an environment. These non-living components can include geographic and climatic characteristics that affect the physical environment. a. A multicellular organism b. Food web c. Ecosystem
2. Choose the correct answer(s). Select all that apply: The three primary types of ecosystems are: a. Terrestrial, wetland and marine ecosystems b. Coastal, inland and marine ecosystems c. Land, sea and air ecosystem d. Cultivated, uncultivated and marine ecosystems
Note: You can check the answers at the end of the course.
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Section 2: Internationally recognized natural heritage in Viet Nam Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park Ha Long Bay
Dong Nai Biosphere Reserve Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve
Trang An Landscape Complex
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Cu Lao Cham Biosphere Reserve
Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve
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VIET NAM’S BIOSPHERE RESERVES Viet Nam boasts an abundance of internationally recognized biosphere reserves, World Heritage Sites and a geopark, along with other areas that are rich with natural heritage, such as national parks. Now, we would like to invite you to discover rare and unique natural sites that Viet Nam has to offer through a virtual tour around the country’s well-known sites. 1. At the end of this section, you will be able to: Identify areas in Viet Nam with important biodiversity; 2. Use the information learned to motivate others to learn about those sites that serve as a source of pride for Vietnamese society. As an educator, you can share with your students what you learn from these sites so they have an opportunity to take a future stand in the conservation, restoration and promotion of this natural beauty. The ideal option would be to visit one of the sites but in case you do not have this opportunity, you can organize an imaginary trip with your students following the same model as the one we are going to use right now.
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Did you know that Viet Nam currently has nine biosphere reserves? The reserves are situated throughout the country and cover very diverse ecosystems and landscapes. They are the: • Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve • Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve • Western Nghe An Biosphere Reserve • Cu Lao Cham Biosphere Reserve • Lang Biang Biosphere Reserve • Dong Nai Biosphere Reserve • Can Gio Biosphere Reserve • Kien Giang Biosphere Reserve • Mui Ca Mau Biosphere Reserve The inscription of these sites as biosphere reserves has helped Viet Nam gain international recognition for its unique natural heritage.
Wha� i� � Bio������ Re�����? Biosphere reserves are sites established by countries and recognized under UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere (MAB) Programme to promote sustainable development based on local community efforts and sound science. Each biosphere is different in its own way, but all Viet Nam’s nine biosphere reserves play a crucial role in preserving critical bio-geographical components and natural habitats and providing economic opportunities to local communities, as well as a wide range of ecosystem services. MAB’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves currently includes 621 biosphere reserves in 117 countries all over the world.
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The landscapes, climates, fauna and flora in biosphere reserves all vary greatly. Each biosphere reserve is a “living laboratory”, where scientists can explore some of the most fascinating parts of the world’s ecosystem. The biosphere reserves serve as sites to showcase biodiversity. The reserves can be used to develop projects that improve people’s livelihoods and environmental stability. Biosphere reserves are divided into zones for conservation: a core zone, which is a strictly protected area for biodiversity conservation; a buffer zone, where agreed upon restrictions help to maintain biodiversity while also encouraging sustainable development; and a transition zone, the large outer area of a reserve where people live and work, using the natural resources of the area in a sustainable manner. Source: Biosphere Assessment - UNESCO/MAB: Frequently Asked Questions about Biosphere Reserves.
Now, we would like you to join us through an imaginary visit to the biosphere reserves of Viet Nam, where you can learn about the values and wonders that will make you fall in love with each one. Take notes so you can share this information with your students or use it to enhance your classes and attract student’s attention towards Viet Nam’s natural reserves. Remember, you can use the information you learn about biosphere reserves when teaching your students Vietnamese language, geography or other subject areas.
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Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve The Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve’s core zone is composed of Xuan Thuy National Park and Tien Hai Wetland Natural Reserve. The Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve has a high biodiversity value with many rare species. The main ecosystems include wetlands, mudflats and 11,000 hectares of mangroves. The major source of income in the biosphere reserve is from aquaculture resources (fishing and the raising of fishery products) and services related to aquaculture. Many women work every day in the mangroves to collect fish, crab and other seashells. It is crucial to protect the mangroves and wetlands which are the natural habitat for more than 500 species of plants, plankton and larvae which serve as food for high-value economic species such as shrimp, crab, oysters and clams.
In addition, Xuan Thuy National Park has more than 10 mammal species, 30 species of reptiles, and countless species of insects and amphibians. The Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve is recognized internationally as a habitat for the black-faced spoonbill living in the core zone. Xuan Thuy National Park is now the only place in Viet Nam where you are likely to see the black-faced spoonbill or spoon-billed sandpiper, a critically endangered species.
The awareness of local communities, especially around Xuan Thuy National Park, is instrumental in continuing to protect and preserve the biosphere reserve for future generations.
Source: BirdLife International (2014) Species factsheet: Platalea minor. Retrieved from http://www.birdlife.org on 16/06/2014. Recommended citation for factsheets for more than one species: BirdLife International (2014) IUCN Red List for birds.
The fishing industry in the area generates hundreds of billions of Vietnamese dong every year, making the local economy largely dependent on this natural area. This situation reinforces the need for the conservation of the biosphere reserve’s ecosystems.
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The Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve is a significant resting and feeding sight for migratory water birds as they head from the north to the south. The reserve serves a vital role during their migration, as the birds would probably not be able to complete their flight, which is often thousands of kilometres long, without the abundance of the reserve. In season, there are up to 40,000 birds staying in Xuan Thuy before continuing their long migratory journey.
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For example, as a result of the MOET, UNESCO and MAB Biosphere Reserves for Environmental and Economic Security (BREES) Programme activities in the Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve, parents, communities and schools are collectively taking action to respond to climate change challenges in their locality. Students living near the Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve acquire an understanding of climate change, biodiversity and environmental issues through developing and implementing projects and activities among their communities and schools to advocate for better environmental practices. Communities identified main challenges related to climate change and students implemented projects with concrete contributions.
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Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve The Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve encompasses approximately 90 per cent of the main island of Cat Ba (excluding the main township) and is surrounded by a marine area with 365 large and small islands. The Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve is recognized both nationally and internationally as an extremely significant site for the conservation of both marine and terrestrial biodiversity in Viet Nam. When walking on the island, you will pass through a number of different ecological areas and ecosystems. Cat Ba’s high biodiversity value is a result of having the largest area of continuous evergreen and primary forests in the northern coastal region of Viet Nam. Cat Ba is known for its high number of endemic species. Its rich ecosystems are home to at least 3,156 species of plants and animals including 1,843 land species and 1,313 marine species.
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One of these endemic species is the serow, a goat-like antelope, which has seen its population plummet from 500 to less than 30 over the last 20 years. Similarly, the golden-headed langur, which can only be found on Cat Ba Island, is one of the most endangered primates in the world. In 2000, the primate was reduced to a population of only 50, largely due to hunting for the medicine trade. Recently, the population of golden-headed langurs on the island has been steadily increasing due to work on a conservation project for the golden-headed langur. This project, called the “Cat Ba Langur Conservation Project”, is supported by the Münster Zoo and the Zoological Society for the Conservation of Species and Populations (ZGAP). Let us now read the story of Mr. Vu Huu Tinh, a former logger and hunter in the Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve who has been reborn as a people’s forest ranger.
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Ca�� s�u�� Rebirth of a hunter As always, Mr. Vu Huu Tinh gets up very early in the morning, puts on his damp clothes and worn - out shoes and goes into the forest to begin his patrol. He lives in Gia Luan, a village on the edge of Cat Ba National Park in the heart of the biosphere reserve where he was born and raised. It has been a long time since there were any langur groups anywhere near Gia Luan. Most of the remaining endemic Cat Ba langurs live in the isolated limestone mountains which dominate Cat Ba National Park. Despite the challenging terrain and patrolling forest rangers, local hunters still infiltrate the area. As a former logger and hunter, Mr. Tinh knows all the tricks. This makes him all the more worried for the naïve langurs, which can easily become victims of skilful hunters. In the past, Mr. Tinh was celebrated by his fellow huntsmen as a ‘sly hunter’: now he is known as the ‘people’s forest ranger'. From sly hunter to forest ranger Mr. Tinh’s change in attitude towards nature has surprised many people and intrigued other forest hunters. Once ‘the king hunter and forest destroyer,’ he now excels at saving animals and foiling attempts to fell trees. Irrespective of these achievements, the most important thing he has done is to help convert other forest destroyers and hunters by setting an example. It is not easy for an experienced and talented hunter who has been in the business for 40 years to change his ways. Having grown up in a forest-dependent family, Mr. Tinh once considered hunting as his main livelihood. Later on in life, the scenes of baby langurs clinging to their trapped mothers and langur couples risking their lives to retrieve their dead offspring from hunters tormented him. The case that haunted him most was the death of several baby langurs after a series of shots were fired by a group of hunters, including him. This heartrending incident made him realize that hunting had become unviable and that the merciless killing of langurs was making them increasingly scarce. When the newly established Cat Ba Langur Conservation Project asked if he would like to head one of their community forest protection groups in 2000, Mr. Tinh did not hesitate. An active campaigner
Western Nghe An Biosphere Reserve Located throughout nine mountainous districts in Nghe An Province, the Western Nghe An Biosphere Reserve is regarded as the largest in South East Asia. In 2007, it became part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves. The reserve contains three core zones: Pu Mat National Park, Pu Huong Nature Reserve and Pu Hoat Nature Reserve. These three areas together form the largest continual block of native forest in the region. However, the green corridor has no official protection and will come under development pressure in the next few years. Its location makes the Western Nghe An Biosphere Reserve one of the most diverse ecosystems in the country, as well as highly vulnerable to climate change, including impacts from strong monsoons. The conservation value of the biosphere reserve is well reflected in the presence of 70 species of plants
and 80 species of animals listed in the Viet Nam Red Book. The Viet Nam Red Book is a list of rare or endangered flora and fauna found in Viet Nam. The criteria for including different species are based upon the IUCN Red List which provides the basis for legal prohibitions and laws related to biodiversity conservation.
Over the past 12 years, Mr. Tinh has become an active campaigner for the protection of langurs and other wildlife in the forest. Mr. Nguyen Tien Ty is one of his converts. In the past, Mr. Ty was also a logger and hunter. Following Mr. Tinh’s example, Mr. Ty has changed his ways and joined one of the community forest protection groups funded by the Cat Ba Langur Conservation Project. Acts of deforestation and hunting are still prevalent in the Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve and langurs are still very much at risk. This makes Mr. Tinh all the more determined to keep patrolling the forests, in rain or shine. Adapted from a story by Duc Thuong. For details: http://mabvietnam.net/CatBaBR.htm. This story was commissioned by UNESCO’s programme on Education for Sustainable Development in Viet Nam.
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Put Mat National Park is home to: 2,494 species of plants, including 69 listed in Viet Nam’s Red Book, 132 species of animals, including more than 70 listed in Viet Nam’s Red Book, 361 species of birds, 53 species of reptiles, 33 species of amphibians, 83 species of fish, 39 species of bats, 1,080 species of insects.
Pu Huong Nature Reserve is home to: 122 species of vascular plants, including some rare specimens, 63 species of mammals, including 45 listed in Viet Nam’s Red Book and the IUCN Red List, 176 species of birds, 62 species of reptiles, 25 species of amphibians. Many of the flora and fauna contained in the Viet Nam Red Book are exceptionally valuable species, such as elephants, the saloa, the douc langur, the white-cheeked crested gibbon and the Cunninghamia konishii, a coniferous tree. Sadly, poaching has caused a decline in the number of native species. However, biodiversity in this part of Viet Nam is still under-surveyed, with new discoveries being made on a regular basis such as the discovery of new species of ox, striped rabbits, bats, geckos, insects, palms and fungi.
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In Pu Mat National Park, the conservation and protection of the North Truong Son natural tropical forest and its biodiversity are key actions. Here you can find many of these species. Pu Huong nature reserve is home to many species of plants, including rare specimens. The reserve also serves as a sanctuary for 45 species of mammals listed in Viet Nam’s Red Book and the IUCN Red List. Pu Hoat Nature Reserve has a varied ecosystem and landscape with four formations including closed forests, sparse forests, scrubs and grass vegetation. The forest which remains primary is home to a diverse range of species. The area is also rich in human cultural diversity, with seven ethnic groups living in the various core zones and the buffer zone: the Thai, Kho Mu, Tay, Tho, H’Mong, Dan Lai and O’Du; the last group reportedly having a population of around 340 individuals. Opportunities have been identified to improve the quality and market potential of some local products, such as tea and oranges. There is also a high potential to develop community-based tourism.
Pu Hoat Nature Reserve is home to: 763 species of plants, 30 of which are listed in Viet Nam’s Red Book, 45 species of mammals, including the rare Muntiacus vuquangensis, Manouria impressa, C. galbinifrons, Buceros bicornis, Lophura nycthemera and Bos gaurus, 131 species of birds, 8 species of reptiles.
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Cu Lao Cham-Hoi An Biosphere Reserve The Cu Lao Cham-Hoi An Biosphere Reserve combines one of Viet Nam’s most significant World Cultural Heritage Sites (Hoi An Ancient Town, including its coastal estuary) with the important marine and island ecosystems of the Cu Lao Cham Archipelago. The Cu Lao Cham Archipelago is a group of eight islands approximately 30 minutes by boat off of the coast of the mainland.
One of the special characteristics of the Cu Lao Cham-Hoi An Biosphere Reserve is that it incorporates both cultural and natural diversity. The World Cultural Heritage Site town of Hoi An has gone through 2,500 years of human settlement and is an ancient trading port that melded European and Vietnamese cultures as traders passed through from around the world. Hoi An City is one of the two core zones of the biosphere reserve, with the Cu Lao Cham main island being the other.
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The islands are particularly known for the diversity of their marine ecosystem. The marine area around the Cu Lao Cham Islands contains more than 165 hectares of coral and 500 hectares of sea grass beds, home to many sea creatures. Coral reefs are typical structures in tropical seas and they can be found in almost all of the islands of Cu Lao Cham, constituting one of the treasures of the islands. How many species of coral do you think can be found in this biosphere reserve? You can count more than 135 species of coral in the Cu Lao Cham Biosphere Reserve. Coral reefs are sensitive ecosystems and are susceptible to the effects of climate change and coastal development. Several coral relocation programmes are implemented in this area and their success is a model for further development of the technique in other parts of Viet Nam where coral reefs are still damaged and endangered. Coral reefs are also an important attraction for tourists who enjoy diving and swimming!
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But corals are not the only living species around Cu Lao Cham. The reserve is also renowned for the bountiful biodiversity of its marine life, which includes over 900 recorded species living in and around the marine area of the islets. And that is not all: there are more than 170 species of fish living in coral reefs, more than 120 species of seaweed,
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more than 210 species of phytoplankton, which are microscopic marine organisms, more than 75 species of zooplankton (tiny, usually microscopic, drifting marine organisms), more than 135 species of coral, more than 140 species of shellfish and more than 25 species of crustacean.
Cu Lao Cham is unique within Viet Nam because it retains much of its vegetation, making the area an important reservoir of biodiversity.
The higher points of the islands’ mountains are covered in tropical evergreen rainforests with large-leafed trees, including many precious species of wood, such as iron wood. Additionally, thousands of forest products like rattan and plants that can be used to make medicine, can also be found here.
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Di� y�� �n��? The residents of the island have the important responsibility of protecting the environment surrounding them. For most of them, their livelihood depends on the environment: fisheries are the most important source of income and the tourism sector is increasing. Tradition is also strong in the islands, as many elderly people earn their income through the use of natural forestry resources, such as from medicinal plants.
Cu Lao Cham Island is home to: 12 species of mammals, 13 species of birds, 130 species of reptiles, 5 species of amphibians, Species listed as threatened in Viet Nam’s Red Book, including the sea-swallows and long-tailed monkey, 499 species of flora, including the Renanthera coccinea, a rare and valuable Orchid.
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Flora systems are divided into different branches. Six of them are present in Viet Nam and among these you can observe species from 5 branches in Cu Lao Cham alone! Flora in Cu Lao Cham accounts for 1/20 of the total species and nearly half of the families of all flora in Viet Nam.
Biodiversity conservation in Cu Lao Cham and the conservation of cultural heritage of Hoi An Ancient Town are closely linked. The district of Hoi An has a large number of tourists visiting the town as well as its surroundings every year. The local capacity for tourism is increasing as more and more people want to come and visit the islands, both from Viet Nam and around the world. Tourism, which came to the islands less than 10 years ago, has become an important livelihood for local people and now accounts for 36 per cent of the total income of the islands.
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Lang Biang Biosphere Reserve The Lang Biang Biosphere Reserve, located in the Central Highlands Province of Lam Dong, was recognized in June 2015, bringing Viet Nam’s total biosphere reserves to nine. The Lang Biang Biosphere reserve has a core area of nearly 35,000 hectares, which encompasses the Bidoup-Nui Ba National Park to the south. While the reserve is mainly a tropical rain forest, it also boasts many major land types including evergreen forests, coniferous forests, bamboo (bambusa procera) forests, mixed forests and plantations.
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The biosphere reserve, tops the list of priority for biodiversity conservation. The reserve is home to an incredibly high degree of biodiversity including many species on the Viet Nam and IUCN Red Lists. Moreover, there are 22 Vietnamese endemic species present in the reserve including 8 species of plants, 3 species of mammals, 2 bird species, 2 species of reptiles, 4 species of amphibians and 3 species of freshwater fish. The Lang Biang Biosphere reserve is also unique as its core zone is home to the first national payment for ecological services (PES) programme. This new approach provides payments to local individuals and communities in exchange for ecosystem services, such as allocating areas of forest for farmers or tourism companies, encouraging the responsible use and community-supported management of its natural resources. Currently, community participation in nature conservation and livelihood improvement includes: forest protection, forest planting, forest fire prevention and firefighting, disease prevention, and propagating, growing and protecting rare and endangered species.
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Di� y�� �n��? The World Wildlife Fund regards Lang Biang as the first priority in its preservation programme for the southern part of the Truong Son Mountain Range. In the ethnic structure in Lam Dong Province in general and in Lang Biang Reserve in particular, the Kinh ethnic group makes up a majority, with the remaining groups consisting of Chinese, K’Ho and other ethnic minorities such as the Tay, Nung and Cham. Vietnamese (or Kinh as it is called in Viet Nam) is the official language (oral and writen). However, each ethnic minority has its own language.
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Dong Nai Biosphere Reserve Dong Nai Biosphere Reserve is one of the richest forest areas remaining in Southern Viet Nam. It has three core zones: Cat Tien National Park; Dong Nai Nature and Culture Reserve, which includes forest, forest land and historical and cultural relics; and Tri An -Dong Nai Inland Water Protected Area. While some of the largest forests in Viet Nam still spread across Dong Nai, much of it was destroyed by defoliation during the American War. Now, multiple types of forest habitats coexist within the biosphere, ranging from lowland forests, riverine forests and montane forests. Cat Tien National Park alone is home to 60 recorded mammals, 283 birds, 69 reptiles and amphibians, 99 species of fish and thousands of species of plants, with 47 of the animal species on the Red List.
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Some of these species are extremely scarce in Viet Nam and in the world, such as the Asian elephant, the sun bear, the gaur and the leopard.
Di� y�� �n��? New species are still being discovered in Viet Nam. Helen’s tree frog is an endemic species discovered in 2009 and placed on the IUCN Red List in 2014. New primates, such as the white-cheeked gibbon, have also been discovered recently. Unfortunately, poaching of endangered species is a serious problem in the biosphere reserve, especially at the edge of Cat Tien National Park. The most widely known case of poaching is the Javan Rhino, which is feared to be extinct, but many other species in the biosphere reserve are also declining.
Over 100 species of crocodiles can be found in the area, including the Siamese crocodile that has been recently re-introduced in the area. Maintaining the population of crocodiles in the biosphere reserve has been a real challenge. A change in temperature while the eggs are in the nest can cause a shift in the sex of a crocodile, which is not determined genetically but by the temperature during the development period of
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the egg. With the crocodile eggs all being buried at the same depth, population ratios of male and female were severely unbalanced and reproduction among the species became a challenge. An international expert in biodiversity and environmental protection came to the biosphere reserve and worked with the local teams to teach them how to restore balance in the crocodile population. Dong Nai Biosphere Reserve’s importance is not limited to its fauna and flora. Its ecosystems offer essential services to humans, in particular by maintaining a clean water supply from the upper reaches of the Dong Nai River which ensures clean water in the dry season and minimizes flooding in the rainy season for a large area of the river basin in the southeast, including Ho Chi Minh City and various important industrial zones as well as residential areas.
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No less than 11 ethnic groups, including the Cho Ro, have been living in the region for several centuries and have customary practices for the sustainable use of rainforest products. Cho Ro are highly dependent on natural resources for nutrition and health, fuel, medicines (both herbal and animal medicines), domestic goods, household construction materials, etc. The Dong Nai Biosphere Reserve has been the subject of survey and research efforts with research covering primates; other large mammals, including rhinoceros, elephants and wild cattle; birds; reptiles; amphibians, including, the Siamese crocodile; fish; butterflies; and plants. The biosphere reserve is a living laboratory that allows researchers to study endemic species in their natural habitat and improve efforts towards their conservation.
Di� y�� �n��? A living laboratory is an area or location that hosts participatory, innovative and people-centered learning opportunities. A living laboratory is an experiential learning environment where individuals, groups and communities can go to explore, experience, and discuss or even identify local problems and develop solutions. These laboratories are able to bridge the gap between conventional, scientific sources of information and community experience, understanding and knowledge.
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Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve Can Gio was the first Vietnamese biosphere reserve, inscribed in the Network of Biosphere Reserves in 2000. It boasts a diversity of habitats, including mangroves, wetlands, salt marshes, mud flats and seagrasses. As a result, Can Gio’s natural beauty attracts people from all over Viet Nam and the region. Despite 75 per cent of mangroves being wiped out during the American War, Can Gio is now the largest area of rehabilitated mangroves in the Mekong Delta. There are 52 mangrove species, which cover about 40,000 hectares.
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Some of the oldest mangroves in the Mekong Delta are found in Can Gio Biosphere Reserve, while other forests in the reserve are less than twenty years old. The combination of old and new, destroyed and renewed makes Can Gio a unique biosphere reserve in Viet Nam. The mangrove forest is regarded as the ‘green lungs’ of Ho Chi Minh City as it absorbs carbon dioxide and pollution. The mangrove forest at Can Gio performs many valuable ecological functions, including protection against coastal erosion and as a ‘green wall’ to protect the city from storm surges, typhoons and sea level rise. The mangrove forest is also a source of fuel wood and construction materials. The return of mangroves is crucial for the local population who are involved in restoration and maintenance programmes. Farmers in Can Gio are experienced in utilizing the natural resources provided by the mangroves and aquaculture, and are largely dependent on these natural resources. Farming methods have improved and new methods of aquatic farming and harvesting are now in use. Farmers are also responsible for protecting the mangrove forests themselves.
Many of the species of fish, reptiles, amphibians and birds also suffered habitat and population losses as a consequence of the American War. Bird populations, both breeding and migratory species, which declined steeply when mangroves were destroyed, are now recovering. Overall, Can Gio’s biodiversity includes more than 200 species of fauna and 52 species of flora. The ecosystem plays an integral role as a breeding and nursery habitat of a variety of aquatic organisms and migratory birds. Can Gio’s lakes contain many rare species, including 11 reptiles listed in Viet Nam’s Red Book in addition to 6 rare bird species and 4 rare mammal species. The reserve is still home to several rare waterbird species like the Nordmann's greenshank along with the beautiful spot-billed pelican or the Asian dowitcher. Mammals include the Eurasian otter, fishing cat and long-tailed macaque.
Di� y�� �n��? In the core zone, the mangroves are divided into 24 areas. Households are allocated plots and are paid a monthly salary to maintain them. They practice fire drills and protect the forest from poaching and hunting by patrolling. In exchange for their help, households are allowed to use some timber and non-timber forest products at a sustainable level and to cultivate small shrimp ponds. Mangroves are used for construction, firewood, charcoal, medicines and fruit cultivation.
On-site community-based forest resource management is seen in the biosphere reserve as one of the main solutions to address management issues and ensure the protection of local resources.
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People have come from all over Viet Nam to reside in the area, creating a cultural mix of inhabitants from neighbouring countries. The biosphere reserve also has a high value in terms of productivity for fish and shrimp farming. Forest management, shrimp farming, fishing and ecotourism are all important activities within the core zone and tourism is a priority in the biosphere reserve. Over one million people visited the biosphere reserve between 2005 and 2010, of which around 50,000 were foreign tourists. It is great to know that many Vietnamese tourists are visiting the site and other biosphere reserves. Hopefully, all increasing the pride they have for this valuable nature. Can Gio is fully playing its role as a living laboratory. It is a major site of research in biological, social, hydrological and economic issues. Particular focus has been on mangrove rehabilitation, the effects of hydrology on mangroves and studies on tourism and social impact.
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Kien Giang Biosphere Reserve Kien Giang Biosphere Reserve is Viet Nam’s second largest biosphere reserve, after Western Nghe An, and includes much of the southern area of Kien Giang Province. It shares a land and sea border with Cambodia to the west, a sea border with Thailand to the south and is endowed with a system of rivers, mountains, deltas, the sea, coral reefs and islands. Kien Giang Biosphere Reserve serves as a comprehensive representation of Viet Nam’s tropical ecosystems including marine and coastal ecosystems, mangroves, islands, coral reefs, swamps, and primary and secondary tropical forests. The secondary forest on Phu Quoc Island is the only remaining forest on limestone mountains in the south.
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The marine environment is recognized as having international importance due to the presence of fish species that are economically viable as well as endangered marine species in the area. The hairynosed otter, once thought extinct in Viet Nam, survives in a small and threatened population within U Minh Thuong National Park. Sea turtles and dolphins are also present but declining due to hunting. The Reserve also contains a diverse range of animal species with an exceptionally rich bird population, including birds inscribed on the Viet Nam Red List, like the sarus crane. Restoring these populations has been a major focus of biodiversity conservation efforts in the biosphere reserve. The silvered langur has been reduced to around a hundred individuals including some highly endangered by limestone quarrying. The area also contains several rare cat and bat species. Biodiversity in the area is of special importance as illustrated by the recent discovery of new plant and animal species, such as an endemic, cave-dwelling species of gekkonid lizard.
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Di� y�� �n��? The Kien Giang Biosphere Reserve has been referred to as a ‘peace ambassador’ since Kien Giang Province and neighbouring Kampot Province in Cambodia signed a cooperative agreement on the conservation of seagrass beds that support dugong populations, as well as turtles, coral reefs and mangrove forests. Coastal mangroves are of particular importance due to their role in minimizing the effects of tsunamis and rising sea levels.
The reserve is significant to the local fishing culture as well. There are more than 11,650 registered fishing boats catching 473,494 tons of fish a year. Tourism is also growing in Kien Giang and the government is hoping to make it part of its economic plans. It remains to be seen how the reserve will hold up to new fishing technology and increased tourism. As a result, utilizing the traditional knowledge of local populations is one of the solutions identified. For example, local fishermen are using non-destructive methods to catch octopuses without damaging to the seagrasses that constitute the habitat of many other species. The main causes of the reduction of octopus population in the area is the application of destructive fishing methods such as dredge net and electrofishing that can damage the seagrass area.
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Mui Ca Mau Biosphere Reserve This reserve has promoted sustainable development through biodiversity conservation, economic growth and cultural value maintenance. Mui Ca Mau has three core zones: Mui Ca Mau National Park, U Minh Ha National Park and Western Ca Mau coastal protection forest. The Biosphere Reserve, which is also a Ramsar Site since 2013, includes unique biological features and consists of varied landscapes and ecosystems such as primary grown mangrove forests, wet peats, mudflats, swamps and large marine areas. Wha� i� r�ms�� �i��?
Ramsar sites are wetlands that have been designated of international importance under the 1971 Ramsar Convention, an international treaty that focuses on the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands globally. The site also provides important stopover and wintering habitats for a large number of water birds. The Mui Ca Mau Biosphere Reserve is home for 208 bird species, including 56 species of migrating birds. The biosphere reserve is on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway for migratory birds, including several globally threatened or near -threatened species.
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Important biodiversity sites exist outside the core zones and the biosphere reserve contains many rare species. In addition to the 208 bird species, the reserve includes 239 species of flora and 36 species of fauna, 7 of which are recorded in the Viet Nam Red Book. The U Minh Ha National Park contains 10 Red List mammal species alone.
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Di� y�� �n��? The Mui Ca Mau Biosphere Reserve is home for 208 bird species, including 56 species of migrating birds. Local communities are very active in protecting the richness of their area. Ca Mau is now home to 19 bird sanctuaries, such as the Hien Bird Sanctuary situated in an area of 130 hectares and which is an exceptionally rich bird colony. Unfortunately, numbers of birds are said to have declined in the last few years due to the collection of eggs and young birds.
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VIET NAM’S GEOPARK: THE DONG VAN KARST PLATEAU A geopark is a nationally protected area containing a number of geological heritage sites of particular importance, rarity or aesthetic appeal. These Earth heritage sites are part of an integrated concept of protection, education and sustainable development. Source: UNESCO, 2006, Global Geoparks Network retrieved from: http://unesdoc.unesco.org/images/0015/ 001500/150007e.pdf
The Dong Van Karst Plateau, named as the 77th member of the Global Geopark Network in March 2010, has become highly visible and is visited by numerous tourists.
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The Dong Van Karst Plateau is composed of 80 per cent limestone, holding fossils from about 426 million years ago. The geopark contains 130 recognized geological sites, amounting to 500 million years of the Earth’s history. Scientists from the Viet Nam Institute of Geosciences and Natural Resources found 13 fossil-geological formations that exist within Dong Van Plateau. Moving beneath the Plateau, we can explore a network of caves and grottos. The presence of caves leads to the hope for more archaeological discoveries, which would likely result in an increase in tourism.
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The geopark is particularly special because it is home to relatively undamaged primary forests, which protects a wide variety of flora, many of which are very rare. The geopark’s forests have drawn international recognition from Fauna and Flora International.
The Bat Dai Son Natural Reserve is the most northerly protected area of the park and contains a special variety of flora including the Vietnamese Golden Cypress, which is now an endangered species. The Southern Serow and Asian Black Bear are among its most known fauna.
In contrast to the soaring limestone formations, low passes contribute to making this diverse landscape so stunning. At the foot of the Ma Pi Leng Pass is a 500 year old river. In the lush valley, you can see green cornfields and houses covered in moss.
The Du Gia National Reserve’s topography is highlighted by the limestone mountains throughout the Reserve and a dense forest, making up magnificent landscapes. Du Gia National Reserve also protects endangered fauna such as the Tonkin stub-nosed monkey, which now has an estimated population of less than 250.
Tucked away in the ancient forests, we can find over 40 species of orchids, more than 50 species of wild animals and a variety of birds, reptiles and other animals. These species are actually thriving in an unusual landscape. Dong Van Karst contains two natural reserves within its territory. The Bat Dai Son Natural Reserve and Du Gia Natural Reserve are a part of the natural heritage of Dong Van Karst and home to many endemic flora and fauna.
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In addition to the extraordinary landscapes and natural heritage, Dong Van Karst Plateau is steeped in cultural heritage with 17 distinct ethnic groups that make up more than 90 per cent of the population of the geopark. Some of the ethnic groups, such as the Pu Peo, with a population of less than 1000 members, exist only within the Dong Van Karst.
The geopark is spiritually important to the native culture with local history and stories handed down orally, saved on scripts or taught professionally. Information handed down includes arts, literature, medicine, traditional crafts, gastronomy and other ways of life. The natural and cultural splendour of the Dong Van Karsts Plateau is no secret: tourism is increasing which, in turn, provides a source of revenue for the local population. Tours are already tailor made
for small groups who pay an entrance fee. The Khau Vai Love Market, a culturally significant event that takes place among 5000 locals, is already becoming a national and international attraction. Tourists can visit community villages as part of their stay. For the most part, visits to the geopark are for adventure tourism or geotourism: an extension of ecotourism, with the additional focus on culture, geology and history.
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VIET NAM’S NATURAL WORLD HERITAGE SITES Viet Nam is home to cultural, natural and mixed World Heritage Sites inscribed on the World Heritage List. The World Heritage Committee draws its membership from 21 countries and meets annually. Countries all over the world present their nominations to have sites registered in the World Heritage List per the approval of the World Heritage Committee. Proposals, or nominations, by countries receive an independent evaluation which is normally carried out by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), for natural sites, and the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), for cultural sites. As of 2015, Viet Nam boasts five cultural sites (the Cultural Sector of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long – Ha Noi, the Citadel of the Ho Dynasty, the Complex of Hue Monuments, Hoi An Ancient Town and My Son Sanctuary). Viet Nam also has two natural sites, Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park and Ha Long Bay, and a mixed site that combines both cultural and natural values, the Trang An Landscape Complex. In the following pages, you will learn more about the natural and mixed sites in Viet Nam which are rich in biodiversity and contribute to the wellbeing of the country and to the livelihoods of many people. World Heritage Sites are important because they belong to all people of the world, irrespective of their geographic location. The sites of both cultural and natural heritage are irreplaceable and must be handed down to future generations. Locations chosen as World Heritage Sites benefit from UNESCO’s goals to seek, identify, protect and preserve World Heritage Sites.
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Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park When you enter Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, hundreds of monumental caves will attract your attention. You can travel by boat through the caves via rivers. The caves are huge in their scale and structure. The largest cave is over 7700 metres long. In total, the caves and rivers on the property stretch over 100 kilometres.
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Phong Nha-Ke Bang’s diverse geological structures and biodiversity led to the international recognition of the site. Phong Nha-Ke Bang is especially significant because of its geological structure. The National Park is part of a larger plateau that consists of limestone lying between shale and sandstone. The karst formation has been evolving for about 400 million years, making it the oldest karst formation in Asia. Phong Nha-Ke Bang is an important area to understand the region’s geological history. Phong Nha-Ke Bang has rich biodiversity and extraordinary geological history. Numerous caves,
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abundant food sources and a low human population create a safe habitat for the Sites’ species. Yet despite the positive conditions, many species are facing extinction. A number of endemic and threatened species exist within the National Park, such as the Asian black bear, Asian elephant, giant muntjac (a type of dear) and the Asian wild dog. The National Park has 51 threatened plant species, 38 of which are listed in Viet Nam’s Red Book of endangered species. The extent of threatened species makes the National Park a high priority for biodiversity conservation.
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Ha Long Bay Ha Long Bay is made up of 1,969 islands and islets. As we approach Ha Long Bay by boat, a broad view of limestone karst islands reaching vertically into the sky appears before us. The larger islands rise 100 to 200 metres above sea level. The islands seem unaffected by human presence, as most of the islands are uninhabited by humans and left to their untouched, natural state. The fact that the islands are well preserved leads not only to a stunning view, but also reinforces the biological importance of the area.
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Ha Long Bay is recognized as the most extensive and well known example of marine-invaded tower karsts, which means that the water has constantly shaped the rock over a long period of time.
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Ha Long Bay also possesses a variety of beautiful caves and other geologically-distinct landforms that were shaped from the water eroding the bottom part of the islands. Another distinguishing feature is the many lakes within the larger limestone islands.
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In addition to the extraordinary geological features of the islands, Ha Long Bay also houses a variety of tropical trees and animals. Over 1000 species of fish live in the waters of Ha Long Bay. Much of the marine life, such as lobsters and oysters, is caught to be sold as a luxury food item. While the islands of Ha Long Bay are uninhabited by humans, a number of mammals, reptiles and birds reside there, including the red-nosed and red-buttock monkeys, as well as two types of parrots.
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There is a large amount of marine transport traffic around Ha Long Bay on a daily basis from fisheries and people conducting business in the area, in addition to tourism. There are, however, strict controls to minimize the human impact on the site. The goal is to maintain a very natural environment among the islands, caves and grottoes even while human use continues in the area.
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Trang An Landscape Complex The Trang An Landscape Complex was inscribed as the first Mixed Heritage World Site in Viet Nam, which means it combines natural and cultural properties. Hoa Lu, the old capital of Viet Nam in the 10th and 11th centuries, as well as temples, pagodas, paddy-field landscapes, villages and sacred sites make the property truly unique, in addition to the natural geological features that dot the landscape.
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You can observe and visit notches in the cliffs, along with caves and wave-cut platforms (narrow, flat areas often found at the base of a sea cliff or along the shoreline of a lake, bay or sea) created when the area was still submerged under the sea and linked by a multitude of rivers. Trang An presents a unique opportunity for visitors to understand the way that ancient people have
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interacted with the natural landscape and adapted to major environmental changes over thousands of years. Caves high in the rock formations have revealed archaeological traces of human activity dating back 30,000 years. Many of the cave sites are nearly in their original condition and offer evidence that the landscape was once occupied by hunters and gatherers as they adapted to climatic and environmental changes.
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Di� y�� �n��? Blending with the forests are rice paddy fields that border streams, with local farmers and fisherman engaged in their traditional way of life and local guides rowing visitors around in sampans, or traditional flat-bottomed, wooden boats. Boat rides for tourists through the cave sites promote work for women as they are the ones who skillfully navigate through the site on the boats. Trang An is a place where culture encounters the natural world and is transformed by it.
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There are many different species of birds living in Viet Nam: they all look different, sound different and live in different regions. This diversity is not common in every country in the world! Viet Nam is home to 820 species of birds, giving Viet Nam the distinction of being ranked 25th internationally in bird species diversity. You should be proud to live in a country with such richness and, hopefully, you will join the people who avoid capturing birds from the wild to lock them up in small cages where they are not able to stretch, fly or reproduce.
VIET NAM’S RAMSAR SITES Additionally, five sites in Viet Nam have been recognized internationally by the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, which is an intergovernmental treaty for "the conservation and wise use of all wetlands through local, regional and national actions and international cooperation, as a contribution towards achieving sustainable development throughout the world". The Convention helps people work together and manage these vital ecosystems.
The Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar, Iran, 1971) Viet Nam is a country rich with wetlands: it includes swamps and marshes, lakes and rivers, wet grasslands and peatlands, deltas, near-shore marine areas, mangroves and coral reefs, and human -made sites such as fish ponds, rice paddies, reservoirs and salt pans. These areas are instrumental in the livelihood of an important part of the population, providing them with some of the most precious resources.
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Xuan Thuy National Park Ramsar Site was Viet Nam’s first recognized Ramsar site. The mangrove forest is of considerable importance in maintaining the fishery, as a source of timber and fuel wood, and in protecting coastal settlements from the full impact of typhoons. Ba Be National Park is the only site that has a natural lake surrounded by a mountainous ecosystem. It provides water for irrigation in the dry season and helps to mitigate floods from four rivers during the wet season. It supports a number of globally threatened species such as the endangered Francois' langur, the endangered big-headed turtle and the white-eared night heron. Con Dao National Park is an archipelago of 14 islands located off the coast of southern Viet Nam. The site supports a range of coastal and terrestrial ecosystems that are important for their high biodiversity. More than 355 coral species have been recorded, of which 56 are classified as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Mui Ca Mau National Park, situated at the southernmost tip of Viet Nam, supports the largest remaining area of mangrove forests (13,400 ha) in the Ca Mau Peninsula. It is the only place in the country where two different tidal patterns interact, which contributes to the building of new mud-flats that create favourable
habitats for many species, such as the critically endangered four-toed terrapin, hairy-nosed otter and black-faced spoonbill. Tram Chim National Park’s natural landscape serves to break wave energy , that is, to slow down waves during the flood season, helping to protect the houses of about 20,000 people along its eastern and southern dykes, as well as having the capacity to minimize damage from floods and droughts for the downstream part of the Mekong Delta. CONCLUSION With a lengthy list of internationally recognized heritage, Viet Nam has a rich natural tradition to be proud of. It is greatly significant to learn about bioliteracy in a country full of diverse sites and species. Viet Nam’s heritage has long been a national treasure, but today the country is becoming increasingly known as an example of cultural and natural diversity to be celebrated worldwide. We must unite to safeguard this treasure and not allow it to be destroyed. We hope you enjoyed this imaginary visit to Viet Nam’s natural sites and learned about the natural and cultural heritages in the Viet Nam.
Content for this course was adapted from information contained in the following sources: UNESCO World Heritage List Nomination files of each Site discussed, the National State of Environment 2010 report and the Biosphere Reserve Assessments completed by MAB and UNESCO.
Quiz 2 1. Fill in the blanks: __________ forests are forests that have been able to grow undisturbed for a long period of time a. Terrestrial b. Primary c. Secondary d. Coastal 2. Match each key concept with the correct example a. Ecosystem diversity i. Fish, crustaceans, coral and aquatic plants populating the ocean floor b. Genetic diversity ii. Brown, white and red indica rice c. Species diversity iii. An area located between an intercostal waterway and the coast and home to a variety of different environments 3. True or False: Biosphere reserves have different zones of protection including a core zone, a buffer zone and a transition zone. 4. True or False: The Viet Nam Red Book contains a list of flora and fauna are unique and found only in Viet Nam. 5. True or False: Viet Nam is home to eight biosphere reserves, a geopark and three World Heritage Sites. 6. True or False: Terrestrial ecosystems, and more specifically forest cover, makes up 37 per cent of the total land area in Viet Nam. Note: You can check the answers at the end of the course.
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Section 3: Educational activities
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Coloured pens, pencils or markers
In this section, a number of educational activities are proposed that you can use to help your students understand what ecosystems are and which ones can be found in Viet Nam. By the end of this section, you will be able to: 1. Develop activities to engage your students to discover nature surrounding their community, school and home.
Recommendation for teachers
Remember, these activities can be modified to suit your students, classroom or school environment. Many of these activities can be adapted for small or large groups working together or even students working alone.
opinions are fundamental characteristics to be reinforced throughout the preparation of the diorama. Respect for the contributions of both girls and boys will result in detailed and well organized dioramas. While your students develop the ecosystem dioramas, you can use the information you learned on ecosystems and in the previous sections to teach them about Viet Nam’s diverse biodiversity and ecosystems. Each diorama can be prepared in one or several sessions, depending on the level of detail you want to achieve, and may include lessons on lakes, rivers, forests and oceans. You can also task groups of students with making different ecosystems, which they can later combine to demonstrate ecosystem diversity. While developing the dioramas, students will also learn about teamwork, the arts, math and other subjects. Activity 1: Making ecosystem dioramas
DIORAMAS AS MINIATURE REPLICAS OF VIET NAM'S ECOSYSTEMS A diorama is a representative model of different types of ecosystems, such as lakes, rivers, oceans and forests, which students will design and construct. Creativity, imagination and initiative are what your students will need to develop the diorama. Teamwork, collaborative spirit and respect for others and for the diversity of ideas and
Objective of the activity: to use art to recreate the various ecosystems of Viet Nam in order to gain appreciation for natural diversity. Description of the activity: With your students, you will develop dioramas, which are miniature representations of Viet Nam's ecosystems. This will be done using a number of materials, including recyclables. As students produce the dioramas, you will provide a description of the ecosystem they are studying as well as guide the discussion among students. For each diorama, students should first discuss and agree on what they will create, for
example, a small lake that could be located in a coastal area. They will then research the ecosystem through the internet, in the library or even by inviting a guest speaker or specialist to the classroom. This will allow them to determine the types of flora and fauna that the dioramas should contain, such as deciding whether to create pine trees or palm trees. The more advanced the class, the more detailed and accurate their dioramas should be. If, for example, students decide to develop an ocean diorama, they can use real shells if they have access to them or they can draw them and cut them out. Students can collect small stones, twigs, leaves and other materials they find at home or on school grounds. Key message for students: 1. Viet Nam boasts a variety of ecosystems, contributing to its rich natural heritage. Materials needed: (per diorama, for example, lake, river, forest or ocean) A shoe box or cardboard box
Scissors
Ruler
Note: You can also use natural materials that you collect outdoors, such as pebbles, small sticks or leaves which your students can use to decorate their dioramas. Instructions for the implementation of the activity: In order to carry out the activity, provide your students with the following instructions. Diorama 1: Lake
Cardboard and coloured paper
1. Using your classroom supplies, paint a lake on the bottom of your box. You can also cut a lake-shaped figure from coloured paper or paint it.
Coloured paint and paintbrushes
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Cotton wool
Tape
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2. Draw pictures of flora and fauna on paper. At the base of each animal and plant, draw a tab that you can use later to make it stand up when you stick it into the diorama. 3. After creating the flora and fauna, cut them out and stick them around the box next to the lake. 4. You can attach additional items such as any natural materials you collected outdoors or other craft supplies, such as wool or string, to create aquatic vegetation and other organisms. Diorama 2: River 1. Cut a long, winding river shape from cardboard or coloured paper. If needed, paint it. Tape or glue the river inside your box. 2. Draw pictures of flora and fauna on paper and cut them out. At the base of each animal and plant, draw a tab that you can use later to make it stand up when you stick it into the diorama. 3. After creating the flora and fauna, cut them out and stick them along the river. You can also add some fish in the river. 4. You can attach additional items such as any natural materials you collected outdoors or other craft supplies, such as wool or string, to create aquatic vegetation and other organisms. You can also use natural or simulated stones, which can be simply created out of crumpled paper.
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Diorama 3: Forest 1. Paint the shoe box or cardboard box to look like a forest, or use cardboard and coloured paper to serve as the base of the diorama. 2. Using the coloured paper and art supplies, draw and develop tree trunks and branches to attach to the sides of the box. Be sure to leave enough room to depict pieces of sky in the upper part of the box. You can attach cotton wool or white paper to represent clouds. You can also draw a waterfall.
2. Draw fish, plants and other marine species on paper and cut them out. At the base of each animal and plant, draw a tab that you can use later to make it stand up when you stick it into the diorama.
4. You can attach additional items such as any natural materials you collected outdoors to create aquatic vegetation and other organisms. If you have any shells or sand, use them or draw the shells yourself.
3. Cut out the shapes and glue them onto the sides and base of the diorama.
3. Draw pictures of flora and fauna on paper. At the base of each animal and plant, draw a tab that you can use later to make it stand up when you stick it into the diorama. 4. The plants and animals can be stuck to the sides of the box, on the forest floor, or even onto trees and shrubs themselves. 5. You can attach additional items such as any natural materials you collected outdoors or other craft supplies, such as wool or string, to create aquatic vegetation and other organisms. Diorama 4: Ocean 1. Paint the base of the box, paper or cardboard blue, green, and other natural colours to serve as the bottom of the ocean diorama. You can imagine the deep sea, a shore with rocks or a sandy beach.
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We would like to provide a few recommendations and points to consider when planning and developing your diorama activities in the classroom. It is important to consider the practical aspects of the activity, such as where to collect materials, and how to integrate your lessons into the ecosystems your school is located in in order to engage your students further. You and your students can collect material for your diorama during a school walk exercise introduced later in this section. Do not cut flowers or break twigs off a tree, use only what you find on the ground. Teach students to leave that for themselves and others to enjoy for a long time. You can engage parents and the community by involving them in the diorama activity. Invite parents to hear your students' presentations after completing their dioramas or ask them to help collect materials to be used for the dioramas (including recycled materials). You can invite other classes to join in to build bigger ecosystem dioramas. SPENDING TIME OUTDOORS AND DESIGNING OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES Spending time outdoors offers students the chance to have real experiences and to connect with nature. Going outdoors will help your pupils to discover the biodiversity around them and to
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provide them with a better understanding of the concepts explained in class. Use the information you learned to add explanations of concepts and motivate discussions among students to enhance practical fieldtrips and excursions. If your school has access to natural settings, you can bring your class outdoors and lead your students on a walk to explore the ecosystems and biodiversity around the school. Remember, even under a single stone is an ecosystem. Be creative!
Tips for teachers
Tip #1 Plan to repeat the school-walk in different seasons, to discover what differences there are. Tip #2 Think of different activities that you usually carry out indoors and that could be moved outdoors. This will reinforce your students' connection with nature and benefit their health and well-being, as well as create bonds with their classmates. Tip #3 Involve other teachers: ask them if and how they spend time outdoors with their class. Tip #4 If your school is in an urbanized area and there is no opportunity to access a natural setting, then think of different ways to discover and connect with nature, such us creating a school garden.
Option 1: School walk Option 2: School excursion to a nearby ecosystem Option 3: Family or community walk
If your school does not have access to natural settings, you can organize an excursion to a nearby area with access to nature. If there is no opportunity to take your students for a walk in a natural setting, then you can suggest they carry out this activity with their family or friends after school or over the weekend. They can explore the area around their house or the ecosystems surrounding their community. This way they can also involve others in exploring biodiversity and in the process of connecting with nature!
Guidelines for exploring the outdoors: 1. Instead of collecting living flora and fauna, draw a picture or take photos. Do not pick live flowers or plants as there is no need to destroy them. The purpose of this exercise is to teach students to love and understand nature through conservation. 2. You can craft tools for digging, netting and observing specimens without hurting or killing them. You can also use plastic bags, empty bottles or other recyclable things as tools to collect specimen, leaves and other items. Any live species you collect must be released back into the wild. Be gentle and make sure to not cause any harm.
3. Make sure your students know not to litter. Pieces of rubbish can poison and even kill animals. For example, a single piece of chewing gum thrown on the floor may be picked up by a bird that could die if it swallows it. 4. Tell your students that in order to increase the likelihood of observing animals when they are outdoors, they should be as quiet as possible and not wear bright colours, which could alert animals to the presence of humans. 5. Encourage and praise those who leave nature as they found it. 6. Ask students to use their five senses to appreciate nature. Awakening their senses will help them to examine nature in detail and notice things they may never have noticed before.
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Activity 2: Ecosystem map and inventory of local biodiversity
Instructions for the implementation of the activity:
Objective of the activity: to examine local biodiversity and obtain information to map and document the local environment.
Step 1: Preparations
Description of the activity: On a walk with your students around either your local environment or an ecosystem chosen for an excursion, map out and record the details of the ecosystem and its biodiversity. Key messages for students: 1. We are surrounded by diverse ecosystems that are home to a variety of animal and plant species. 2. Environmental protection starts in our own surroundings. Materials needed: Large sheets of paper Coloured pencils, pens or markers Ruler Printed copies of the School Biodiversity Surveys
1. Visit the location where the activity will take place before taking your students there and plan your programme based on the specific conditions you observe. 2. Ensure adequate supervision for the site, the activity and the age of the group. 3. Educate yourself and your students about the necessary precautions to take in your environment, such as natural hazards or areas where biting, stinging or venomous flora or fauna may exist. 4. Ensure that participants have the required clothing and footwear. For example, if you are outside when mosquitoes are most active, wear protective clothing such as long trousers, long-sleeved shirts and socks. 5. Ask your students to choose a classmate and to keep that person in sight all day. Tell students that if they get separated from the group, they should wait together so the group can find them more quickly. 6. Prior to starting the activity, clearly instruct your students and parents, who might come along, about the importance of respecting all living things. 7. Make sure all of your students understand the guidelines for exploring the outdoors.
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Step 2: Mapping the ecosystem 1. Prior to taking a walk, you and your students should prepare a map or a drawing of the outline of your school grounds or the ecosystem that your students will explore. You can also ask them to prepare it at home with the help of their family, individually or in groups during class time. 2. Ask your students to fill in the different kinds of land use (farmland, rice paddies, logging, mining) they observe as they walk, as well as vegetation types (grassland, shrubs, tall trees) and fauna species that can serve as landmarks. 3. Update the map every six months to reflect possible changes in the ecosystem, such as land use changes. Also mark any changes in biodiversity, such as species that are no longer in the area. This will help your students become aware of the consequences of human activity and its impact on nature, whether positive or negative. If you find new plants, trees or animal species when you repeat the activity, add a new drawing or picture into the map. Step 3: Recording biodiversity 1. Prepare School Biodiversity Surveys for students to record the flora and fauna they observe outside. You can use the following charts as examples of very simple ecosystem inventory forms that your students can use to record the biodiversity around them. Remember, you can adapt these froms to meet the needs of your students’ age or level, or the physical conditions of the area where you conduct the walk activity.
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2. You can also have your students conduct the activity at home by providing them with copies of the School Biodiversity Surveys to complete while doing the walk with their parents or friends. 3. Ask your students to identify the biodiversity they observed in the ecosystem they explored. You can organize your students in teams to categorize their information and create a poster to present their findings to the rest of the class. After identifying nature surrounding the school and the local ecosystem, ask your students to develop activities to implement with their families and their community, such as hanging up posters at community centres to invite everyone to respect and enjoy nature or celebrating a cultural event related to nature.
School Biodiversity Survey – Vegetation Provide date and time, site location, weather type and temperature.
Type and description
Number of
Total number found
different types
(or percentage of area surveyed)
Lawn grass Wild grass (not mowed) Flowers (individual flowers, not on bushes or trees) Weeds Bushes or shrubs Trees Fungus, mosses or lichens
A scavenger hunt is a game in which participants, individually or in groups, hunt or seek out items that are included on a list shared with all others. The first individual or group to locate every item on the list is the winner.
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You may apply this principle to the school walk, but insist that students complete the activity carefully, not to put themselves in danger by running or pushing each other, and not to damage the environment during the game.
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School Biodiversity Survey – Wildlife Provide date and time, site location, weather type and temperature.
Type and description
Number of
Total number found
different types
(or percentage of area surveyed)
Insects and spiders
Instructions for implementation of the activity:
Mammals (buffalo, pigs, etc...)
1. Brainstorm with your students and colleagues on how to improve your local environment. You can use the ideas listed below to help you:
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2. Design a science corner with collected information highlighting facts and figures about the local species of birds, trees or flowers students have observed.
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2. Working as a team is a great way to get things done.
The materials needed will depend on the activity you agree upon during the brainstorming session.
Birds
1. Design a community corner in the classroom displaying drawings and photographs of local specimen, such as rice, flowers, trees, etc., highlighting the unique role that biodiversity plays in local natural or cultural heritage.
1. Environmental conservation and enhancement can be done at the local level.
Materials needed:
Reptiles and other amphibians
Step 4: Follow-up activities
Key messages for students:
3. Be sure to ask students to discuss the interactions between the local biodiversity they have observed and how it affects and is a part of the area’s ecosystem. Activity 3: Enriching the biodiversity in your local ecosystem Objective of the activity: to identify ways to improve the local environment. Description of the activity: Using the surveys prepared in the previous activity, brainstorm practical ideas with your students that can improve the local environment and implement the ones you find suitable to your school's setting.
Seed a wild flower patch. Grow saplings in the classroom or schoolyard, to transfer later in the year to a nearby forest. Be extremely careful to use native species. Create micro-habitats, such as log piles and mini-ponds, to observe how biodiversity interacts . Build and put up bird boxes with food to bring wild birds to the school grounds. Put up baskets or empty bottles filled with flowers to attract bees. Organize a group to clean the beach or parks in your community, depending on the location of your school. Carry out awareness raising campaigns with parents, the community and the media on biodiversity conservation.
Recommendations for teachers Please read these final recommendations which will enhance the efficacy and relevance of the classroom activities we have just learned about. Commit to spending more time outdoors this year with your students, even for indoor classroom activities like storybook reading, math flash cards or others. Take advantage of that next nice day! When working in groups, try to create mixed groups balancing the number of girls and boys. Be gender sensitive when choosing team leaders or speakers. Also, balance the male- and female-oriented examples used in lessons. Make sure that everyone takes part in the activities and in sharing experiences. Do not wait for your students to raise their hands, motivate them directly, especially those who are usually quiet. In the activities with family and community members, encourage children to ask questions to both sexes (to their father and mother) and to get them equally involved in the activities. They may have different knowledge of and points of view on biodiversity.
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Course review
An ecosystem is not only a physical area, but the community formed by the interaction between all living and non-living components in an environment. These non-living components can include geographic and climatic characteristics that affect the physical environment. Terrestrial ecosystems, wetland ecosystems and marine ecosystems are the three primary types of ecosystems. Biological diversity can be expressed in many ways including ecosystem diversity (the variety of different ecosystems in a given area), species diversity (the variety of plant, animal and fungi species in a given area) and genetic diversity (the variation between members of the same species). Viet Nam is home to a rich bounty of biodiversity which has been internationally recognized through its biosphere reserves, geopark, World Heritage Sites and other areas that are rich with natural heritage.
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Answer keys This abundance of biological diversity is a source of pride for all of Viet Nam and should be celebrated, respected and protected! Hundreds of species of flora and fauna have been identified as rare and endangered and placed on the Viet Nam Red Book, such as the Asian elephant, sun bear and golden-headed langur. These creatures are not only an integral part of the ecosystems they live in but also an important part of Vietnamese culture and pride. Viet Nam’s heritage has long been a national treasure, but today the country is becoming increasingly known as an example of cultural and natural diversity to be celebrated worldwide. We must unite to safeguard this treasure and not allow it to be destroyed.
Quiz I 1. Fill in the blank(s) A/An __________ is the community formed by the interaction between all living and non-living components in an environment. These non-living components can include geographic and climatic characteristics that affect the physical environment. a. A multicellular organism b. Food web c. Ecosystem
2. Choose the correct answer(s). Select all that apply: The three primary types of ecosystems are: a. Terrestrial, wetland and marine ecosystems b. Coastal, inland and marine ecosystems c. Land, sea and air ecosystem d. Cultivated, uncultivated and marine ecosystems
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Glossary Quiz 2 1. Fill in the blanks: __________ forests are forests that have been able to grow undisturbed for a long period of time a. Terrestrial b. Primary c. Secondary d. Coastal 2. Match each key concept with the correct example a. Ecosystem diversity i. Fish, crustaceans, coral and aquatic plants populating the ocean floor b. Genetic diversity ii. Brown, white and red indica rice c. Species diversity iii. An area located between an intercostal waterway and the coast and home to a variety of different environments 3. True or False: Biosphere reserves have different zones of protection including a core zone, a buffer zone and a transition zone. True 4. True or False: The Viet Nam Red Book contains a list of flora and fauna are unique and found only in Viet Nam. True 5. True or False: Viet Nam is home to eight biosphere reserves, a geopark and three World Heritage Sites. False 6. True or False: Terrestrial ecosystems, and more specifically forest cover, makes up 37 per cent of the total land area in Viet Nam. True
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Biological diversity or “Biodiversity” is the variability among living organisms from all sources including terrestrial, marine and other aquatic ecosystems and the ecological complexes of which they are part of; this includes diversity within species, between species and of ecosystems. Biosphere reserve is a site established by countries and recognized under UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere (MAB) Programme to promote sustainable development based on local community efforts and sound science. Buffer zone is the zone within a biosphere reserve where agreed restrictions help to maintain biodiversity while also encouraging sustainable development. Core zone is the zone within a biosphere reserve which is a strictly protected area for biodiversity conservation. Ecosystem diversity is the variety of different ecosystems, such as marine, wetland, and terrestrial ecosystems that belong to a geographical area. Ecosystem refers to a physical environment and all biodiversity that lives within it. This community, formed by the interaction between all the living and non-living components (such as geographic and climatic characteristics) in this environment, is what we refer to as an ecosystem. Genetic diversity is the differences between members of the same species as a result of the variety of genes within these species.
Geopark is a nationally protected area containing a number of geological heritage sites of particular importance, rarity or aesthetic appeal. These Earth heritage sites are part of an integrated concept of protection, education and sustainable development. Marine ecosystems not only include oceans and shorelines but also coral reefs, salt marshes, and mangroves. Species diversity is the diversity of species within a given area or ecosystem. This includes all the different animals, plants, fungi and even very small creatures such as bacteria and viruses. Terrestrial ecosystems are land-based environments including forests, mountains, deltas, coastal sand dunes and beaches. Terrestrial ecosystems also include cultivated or agricultural areas and urban environments. Transition zone is the zone within a biosphere reserve that is the outermost part of a biosphere reserve. Wetland ecosystems include rivers, lakes and ponds as well as swamps, wet forests, and even rivers within caves. World Heritage Sites are places listed by UNESCO due to their international cultural or natural significance. As a result, World Heritage Sites are to be protected from traditional causes of decay and by changes in social and economic conditions which threaten their unsustainable utilization.
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References
Credit
Credit
Title of the audiovisual/text material
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark -Ngo Duc Can
Images: bird species - Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve Images: fishermen holding fish nets - Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve Xuan Thuy National Park and other related partners
Title of the audiovisual/text material Image: an ethnic minority village Image: a mountainous area
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark -Vo Chi Trung
Image: a road surrounded by mountains
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark - Hoang Minh
Image: people in a flower filed
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark –Lai Diem Dam
Image: an ethnic minority village
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark –Tran Trong Do
Image: an ethnic minority woman
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark – Phan Ky Suu
Image: a flower field surrounded by mountains
Images: local people carrying pole - Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve Images: mangroves - Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve Image: rice paddies - Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve Image: an elephant - Nghệ An Biosphere reserve
Put Mat National Park
Images: forests - Nghệ An Biosphere reserve Images: local people - Nghệ An Biosphere reserve Image: a tiger - Nghệ An Biosphere reserve Image: children taking care of plants - Kien Giang Biosphere reserve
Department of Science and Technology. Kien Giang Province
Image: men in the river - Kien Giang Biosphere reserve Image: a river - Kien Giang Biosphere reserve Images: boats in the bay - Ha Long Bay
Management Board of Ha Long Bay
Images: caves - Ha Long Bay
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark – Cong ty Hung Cuong
Image: a mountainous area
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark – Nguyen Huu Ninh
Image: an ethnic minority village
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark –Chu Trieu Duong
Image: rocks
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark – Quang Tuan
Images: an ethnic minoritiy village
Images: flora and fauna - Ha Long Bay Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark.
Images: mountainous areas
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark - Tran Cao Ba Long
Images: ethnic minorities
Images: caves
Image: ethnic minority villages
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Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark – Dinh Quang Thanh
Image: rice field surrounded by mountains
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Credit
Title of the audiovisual/text material
Credit
Title of the audiovisual/text material
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark – Nguyen Huynh Mai
Image: animals
Images: mangroves
Images: an ethnic minority village
Images: children planting mangroves
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark – Vu Ngoc Hoang
Image: a mountainous area Images: an ethnic minority village – aerial view
Images: animals
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark – Do Anh Tuan
Image: a house located in a mountainous area
Image: people on the boat
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark –Kim Manh
Image: women from an ethnic minority walking on a road
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark –Tat Binh
Images: mountainous areas
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark – Doan Van Chien
Images: people in rice fields
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark – Nguyen Van Dung
Image: a house
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark – Nguyen Dang Hanh
Image: an ethnic minority village
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark – Nong Tu Tuong
Image: people with cattle
Management Board of Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark –Van Phat
Image: people between two trees
Ramsar Convention Secretariat
Images: animals and incests
Viet Nam National Administration of Tourism
Viet Nam World Heritage - Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park
National Commission for UNESCO in Viet Nam
Management Board of Can Gio Bioshpere Reserve
Images: people on salt fields
Image: forests
Image: a house
Management Board of Dong Nai Bioshpere Reserve
Images: water Image: a marsh Image: corals and fishes Management Board of Cham island
Image: a woman and girl in a field
Information from heritage inscriptions, bioshpere reserves and Geoparks
Images: animals
Image: people on the boat Image: a woman arranges bags on an oxcart Images: caves
Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park
Images: fishery Images: forests
Cat Ba Biosphere Resreve - Hoang Tuan Anh
Images: Cat Ba Langur Images: mangroves Images: Trang An landscape
Management Board of Trang An Bioshpere Reserve
Image: caves Image: Local people on the fields Image: local people go fishing Image: fossil
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Acknowledgments This series for teachers and educators on Biodiversity Conservation and Restoration: Living in Harmony with Nature has been produced with the contributions of the following organizations and individuals: The Ministry of Education and Training of Viet Nam Department of Science, Technology and Environment Department of Facilities, School Equipment and Children’s Toys Department of Teachers and Educational Administrators Primary Education Department Continuing Education Department Department of Education and Training of Thua Thien-Hue Province Five piloting schools in Thua Thien-Hue Province: Thanh Toan Primary School, Huong Vinh Primary School, Phu Mau Primary School, Quang Loi Primary School and Huong Long Primary School The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Division for Teaching, Learning and Content Division of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development Section of Education for Sustainable Development Regional Bureau for Education in Asia and the Pacific in Bangkok Regional Bureau for Science in Asia and the Pacific in Jakarta The Intersectoral Education for Sustainable Development Initiative Team of the UNESCO Office in Viet Nam International Consultant Alvaro Antonio Cedeño-Molinari International Consultant Robert Wild International Consultant Amanda Toye Dr. Dong Thanh Hai, Deputy Dean of the Post Graduate Department of the Viet Nam Forestry University Dr. Bui Phuong Nga, Expert in Curriculum Development Bui Thanh Xuan M.Ed., Head of General Research Department of the Research Centre for Non-formal Education and Researcher at the Viet Nam Institute of Educational Sciences/MOET Live and Learn Environmental Education Viet Nam The Viet Nam Man and the Biosphere Programme Primary Education Department of the Ha Noi National University of Education Viet Nam National Institute of Educational Sciences United Nations Environment Programme World Animal Protection Humane Society International Animals Asia Foundation The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora The Biodiversity Group
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