Coca-Cola Foundation and IUCN promote ecosystem restoration in Mekong Delta

The Coca-Cola Foundation (TCCF) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) presented nature-based business opportunities to address environmental challenges in the Mekong Delta. During the 2026 Autumn Economic Forum in Ho Chi Minh City, the organizations showcased models that link ecosystem restoration with economic activities to support local communities.

The Mekong Delta currently faces threats including coastal erosion, mangrove loss, disrupted seasonal flooding, excessive groundwater extraction, and land subsidence. Since 2017, TCCF has provided over US$1.8 million to support IUCN projects that integrate conservation with market opportunities.

Key initiatives include flood-based agriculture, which replaces a third annual rice crop with lotus cultivation, aquaculture, and tourism. This model allows farmers to produce food, textiles, and artwork from lotus plants while utilizing seasonal floodwaters. Another model integrates mangrove restoration with advanced aquaculture technology, such as integrated multi-trophic aquaculture and recirculating aquaculture systems, to improve water efficiency and coastal resilience.