Sustainable farming is no longer just an ideal—it is a practical solution that can boost productivity, increase income, and protect both health and the environment. By adopting smarter practices and utilizing resources more efficiently, farmers are witnessing transformative changes in their fields and lives. This is what was discussed at a recent workshop in HCMC on how to mitigate impacts of agricultural chemicals and open burning on climate change and biodiversity. A shift toward sustainability For years, practices like open burning of straw after harvest and heavy reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides were the norm for farmers. However, a growing number of them are now embracing sustainable methods such as recycling straw for compost, cultivating mushrooms, and reducing pesticide use. The results have been encouraging, both economically and environmentally. Nguyen Thanh Ha, a farmer in Chau Thanh District, An Giang Province, is a shining example of this shift. After attending a local agricultural extension class, Ha adopted greenhouse mushroom farming using recycled straw. With a VND200 million investment, partly funded by the province, Ha constructed eight greenhouses, with each covering 24 square meters. His efforts paid off. “In just two years, I have recovered my investment and started making […]