SETT

Seed to Table (STT) is a Japanese non-governmental organization (NGO) established in 2009, dedicated to enhancing the livelihoods of small-scale farmers and impoverished communities in Vietnam. STT focuses on sustainable agricultural practices, environmental conservation, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

Mission and Vision

STT envisions Vietnamese communities collaborating to develop knowledge, technology, and management systems that protect indigenous seeds, natural resources, and traditional culture. This collective effort aims to enhance food and livelihood security, fostering harmonious living among people and with their natural environment. The organization’s mission centers on safeguarding both cultivated and natural biodiversity, which are foundational to local lives and livelihoods.

Core Activities

1- Promotion of Sustainable and Organic Agriculture: STT encourages farmers to adopt environmentally friendly farming methods, such as rice-duck farming, rice-fish farming, Sloping Agricultural Land Technology (SALT), and the System of Rice Intensification (SRI). The organization also supports organic farming through the Participatory Guarantee System (PGS), emphasizing the sustainable use and conservation of natural resources.

2- Preservation of Indigenous Seeds and Biodiversity: Recognizing the importance of local crop varieties, STT collaborates with communities to protect and utilize indigenous seeds, thereby maintaining agricultural diversity and resilience.

3- Environmental Education and Cultural Heritage Awareness: STT engages local youth in programs designed to raise awareness about the value of their natural environment and cultural heritage. These initiatives aim to cultivate a sense of stewardship and pride in their local traditions and ecosystems.

4- Community-Based Eco-Tourism Development: By working closely with local populations, STT assists in developing eco-tourism programs that highlight regional attractions. This includes creating management and operational plans and training local individuals to sustain these initiatives, thereby generating alternative income sources and promoting cultural exchange.

5- Value-Added Agricultural Products and Livelihood Improvement: STT collaborates with communities to develop value-added products from locally sourced agricultural produce and native plants. This effort aims to create employment opportunities, particularly for women and landless individuals, contributing to improved living standards.

6- Bridging Rural and Urban Communities: To address concerns about food safety and traceability, STT facilitates connections between rural producers and urban consumers, chefs, and distributors. This initiative fosters mutual understanding and cooperation, ensuring access to safe food while enhancing farmers’ incomes.