Basic trends and strategic viewpoints for sustainable development in adaptation to climate change in the Mekong delta

Abstract

The Mekong delta is the southernmost region of Vietnam, with a population of approximately 20 million and a total area (excluding islands) of about 4 million hectares, of which about 2.60 million hectares are used for developing agriculture and aquaculture. The Mekong delta is particularly important for the overall development of the country. However, in recent years, under the impact of global warming, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has defined the Mekong delta as one of the three most vulnerable plains, due to climate change, sea level rise, and land subsidence. Especially, the impact of water resources exploitation of upper Mekong countries has been posing great challenges to the sustainable development of the region. Recognizing the nature and development trend of the Mekong delta, new threats and challenges that help to form scientific bases for development models and solutions for the region is very important. This article presents assessments on the challenges and strategic viewpoints in regard to sustainable development and adaptation to climate change of the Mekong delta.