Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province currently has approximately 2,900 hectares of urban greenhouses, which often do not meet environmental standards, contributing to urban flooding and environmental degradation. To solve this problem, authorities are advocating the demolition of urban greenhouses, accompanied by a policy of comprehensive support for outdoor agriculture. Financing initiatives totaling more than VND 4.8 trillion aim to facilitate farmers’ transition, focusing on education, financial assistance and sustainable practices.
The picturesque city of Da Lat, located in the heart of Lam Dong Province in Vietnam, known for its cool climate and lush landscapes, is undergoing a transformation in its agricultural practices. While urban greenhouses have long been a symbol of Dalat’s agricultural prowess, their proliferation within the city has raised concerns about environmental sustainability and urban development.
According to recent data provided by Nguyen Van Chau, Deputy Director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Lam Dong Province, the presence of about 2,900 hectares of urban greenhouses in the urban structure of Da Lat poses multifaceted problems. These structures, often built informally without maintaining environmental standards, contribute to localized flooding, disrupt urban aesthetics, and strain infrastructure through inadequate drainage systems and dense residential areas.
Recognizing the urgency of addressing these issues, local authorities are taking initiatives to transition from urban greenhouse farming to more sustainable alternatives. One such initiative includes the creation of 30 model projects for outdoor flower, tuber and fruit production, strategically designed to demonstrate the viability and productivity of outdoor growing methods.
Mr. Do Van Bei, a farmer from District 7, emphasizes the importance of comprehensive support measures accompanying the transition: “Comparing outdoor farming with greenhouse farming, the latter offers significantly higher efficiency. Therefore, if the directive calls for a phase-out of urban greenhouses, the government should implement supportive policies to ease the transition as outdoor farming poses significant challenges.”
In addition to promoting outdoor farming practices, authorities are actively engaging financial institutions to provide favorable credit policies to support farmers during this transition period. Nguyen Van Chau stresses the importance of raising awareness among farmers about the provincial directive to reduce and ultimately eliminate urban greenhouses in Da Lat. It highlights the need for affordable financing options coupled with potential interest rate subsidies to ease the financial burden associated with resettlement and the adoption of new farming methods.
While Dalat implements this paradigm shift in its agricultural landscape, stakeholders remain committed to achieving a balance between environmental protection, urban development and agricultural productivity. By adopting sustainable farming practices and using innovative technologies adapted to climate resilience, Dalat aims to redefine its agricultural identity while preserving its natural charm for future generations.
The abandonment of urban greenhouses in Dalat signals a turning point in the city’s agricultural development, as stakeholders come together to address pressing environmental and urban issues. With concerted efforts to promote outdoor agriculture, coupled with comprehensive support policies and financial incentives, Dalat is poised to embark on a path of sustainable agriculture, maintaining its natural beauty and resilience in the face of a changing climate.
