Currently, although people have better awareness about forest protection to maintain water resources and develop tourism, many fragmented forest patches need a lot of time to recover naturally. With the support of people, the process of forest restoration will take place faster and more effectively.

In response to the International Day of Biodiversity (May 22) and World Environment Day (June 5), on May 21, at Van Ho commune, Van Ho district, Son La province, Union of Science Associations and Vietnam Technology (VUSTA), the Center for People and Nature (PanNature) and the government of Van Ho district organized the Program “Forest Restoration on Rocky Mountains”.

Afforestation activities are carried out in Pa Cop and Hua Tat villages, Van Ho commune, Van Ho district, Son La province – the main habitat of the critically endangered Black White-Cheeked Gibbons, which is threatened with biological landscape and food sources due to forest degradation and fragmentation. This is also the second time that the reforestation program has been held in Van Ho, in PanNature’s long-term plan to restore the natural forest here.

Black White-Cheeked Gibbons, scientifically known as Nomascus leucogenys, are critically endangered (listed in the IUCN Red List) and can only be found in Laos and Vietnam. 

This project ensures the preservation of the gibbons’ food sources and the conservation of biodiversity. Meaningful activities carried out include: Planting over 5,000 trees, dispersing over 9,000 seeds across 10 hectares, engaging over 200 participants, including local authorities, community members, businesses, and associations.

VB4E is making efforts with other partners to protect the forest. By joining hands and supporting conservation efforts, we can ensure a brighter future for the Black White-Cheeked Gibbons and other endangered species.