Leveraging indigenous knowledge and resources for socio-economic development in the mountainous regions of Northern Vietnam

This study analyzes the role of indigenous knowledge (IK), indigenous resources, and heritage agriculture models associated with nature-based adaptation solutions (NbS) in developing livelihoods, culture, and green economy in the Northern mountainous region of Vietnam. Using a qualitative research method combining participatory observation, focus group discussions, and semi-structured interviews, the study constructs an analytical framework consisting of three pillars: (1) IK and indigenous resources; (2) Heritage agriculture and nature-based adaptation solutions; and (3) Value chains and enterprise linkages. The results show that IK remains an important foundation in resource management and climate adaptation, especially in traditional upland farming practices, irrigation, indigenous varieties, and forest-medicinal knowledge. Heritage agricultural models such as agroforestry, ecotourism, and circular agriculture linked with experiential education offer dual economic and ecological benefits, while also providing impetus for biodiversity conservation. The linkage between businesses, cooperatives, and communities contributes to upgrading the value chain of local agricultural products, but still faces limitations in market capacity and branding. The study emphasizes the need to integrate sustainable agriculture, natural resources, and value chain development to promote green, circular, and culturally-ecologically sustainable economic models in mountainous regions.

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Title Leveraging indigenous knowledge and resources for socio-economic development in the mountainous regions of Northern Vietnam
Description This study analyzes the role of indigenous knowledge (IK), indigenous resources, and heritage agriculture models associated with nature-based adaptation solutions (NbS) in developing livelihoods, culture, and green economy in the Northern mountainous region of Vietnam. Using a qualitative research method combining participatory observation, focus group discussions, and semi-structured interviews, the study constructs an analytical framework consisting of three pillars: (1) IK and indigenous resources; (2) Heritage agriculture and nature-based adaptation solutions; and (3) Value chains and enterprise linkages. The results show that IK remains an important foundation in resource management and climate adaptation, especially in traditional upland farming practices, irrigation, indigenous varieties, and forest-medicinal knowledge. Heritage agricultural models such as agroforestry, ecotourism, and circular agriculture linked with experiential education offer dual economic and ecological benefits, while also providing impetus for biodiversity conservation. The linkage between businesses, cooperatives, and communities contributes to upgrading the value chain of local agricultural products, but still faces limitations in market capacity and branding. The study emphasizes the need to integrate sustainable agriculture, natural resources, and value chain development to promote green, circular, and culturally-ecologically sustainable economic models in mountainous regions.
Agroecology Category Knowledge and values
Agroecology Keyword Local adaptation systems
Contributing organisations Trường Đại học Nông lâm, Bộ Khoa học và Công nghệ
Author HO NGOC SON
Year 2025
Type of document Scientific & Research
Language Vietnamese
Country Vietnam
Administrative Level 1
Administrative Level 2
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