On 24 June, VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) hosted a symposium titled ‘Emissions Reduction Potential of Wetland Ecosystems in the Mekong Delta’. The event brought together scientists, experts, business leaders, and policymakers to share recent research findings and propose scientific and technological solutions aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate change.

As Ģ����ý implements commitments to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, wetland ecosystems are increasingly recognised not merely for biodiversity conservation, but as vital natural infrastructure capable of absorbing and storing carbon whilst helping to regulate the climate. Accurately assessing the potential of these ecosystems has become essential for developing resource management policies, advancing carbon markets, and implementing nature-based adaptation strategies.

In the opening address, Dr Phạm Quỳnh Hương, Director of the Research Centre for Greenhouse Gases and Climate Change at HCMUS, noted that climate change increasingly impacts the lives, production, and livelihoods of local communities. Consequently, research into greenhouse gas mitigation solutions is urgent for Ģ����ý and crucial for achieving global sustainable development goals.

According to Dr Phạm Quỳnh Hương, ecosystems such as mangroves, melaleuca forests, seasonally inundated grasslands, aquaculture areas, and rice cultivation systems possess the capacity to store substantial volumes of carbon within biomass and soil. Conversely, these environments can also release methane and nitrous oxide if managed improperly. Therefore, integrating research into hydrology, soil characteristics, and nutrient cycles with advanced monitoring technologies will establish the scientific foundation required to maximise carbon sequestration whilst mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.

A notable highlight of the symposium was the growing synergy between environmental science and digital technology in emissions reduction research.

Presentations introduced several novel research directions, including the application of IoT and artificial intelligence (AI) in water regulation for low-emission rice production; the deployment of the Eddy Covariance method to measure gas exchange within agricultural and forestry ecosystems; and investigations into the relationships between flooding regimes, soil properties, and greenhouse gas emissions in the seasonally inundated grasslands of Tram Chim National Park.

Furthermore, studies on the ‘blue carbon’ sequestration capacity of aquatic plants in U Minh Thuong National Park, the role of mangroves in emissions reduction and climate adaptation, and life cycle assessments of black tiger shrimp raised under mangrove canopies in Ca Mau opened new avenues for linking scientific research with green economic development and carbon markets.

Experts agreed that effectively exploiting the potential of wetland ecosystems demands close coordination between environmental science, monitoring technology, resource management, and economic mechanisms, particularly carbon markets and green finance.

Experts sharing research findings and scientific-technological solutions related to greenhouse gas emissions reduction in wetland ecosystems.

Discussions at the symposium provided further scientific evidence to inform wetland management policies that simultaneously enhance ecological, economic, and climate values. The event also established a framework for strengthening collaboration between universities, research institutes, businesses, and regulatory bodies to develop ecosystem-based mitigation solutions, thereby supporting sustainable development in the Mekong Delta and contributing to the national emissions reduction strategy.

Scientists, experts, business representatives, and regulatory officials discussing sustainable management solutions for wetland resources in the Mekong Delta.

 

On 12 June, the symposium entitled ‘Marine Space and Climate Change’ was hosted by the Faculty of Physics and Engineering Physics at VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS). This academic forum successfully connected educational training, scientific research, and practical maritime management, elucidating the pivotal role of marine science in sustainable development, climate change adaptation, and environmental resource protection.

In the opening address, Assoc. Prof. Trần Lê Quan, the President of HCMUS, emphasised that Ģ����ý is a coastal nation endowed with substantial advantages in natural resources, maritime economics, and strategic positioning. Marine space is intricately linked not only to economic growth, national defence, and security, but also serves as the vital living environment for millions of citizens. As climate change increasingly exerts profound impacts on coastal regions, the demand for high-quality human resources within oceanography and marine science has become more critical than ever.

According to Assoc. Prof. Trần Lê Quan, advancing training and research within marine science enhances capabilities in forecasting, management, and resource exploitation. Furthermore, this advancement plays an essential role in Ģ����ý’s strategic framework for a sustainable marine economy and climate change adaptation.

In light of the United Nations launching the Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030), marine and ocean sciences during the 2025–2030 period are transitioning rapidly from single-discipline to interdisciplinary approaches. These modern methodologies integrate data science, artificial intelligence, and digital technologies. Marine space is progressively viewed as a multidimensional system encompasses natural resources, ecosystems, infrastructure, socio-economic activities, sustainable development, and national sovereignty.

The thematic presentations followed a structured progression from foundational training to the empirical challenges faced by Ģ����ý’s marine and coastal zones. The proceedings commenced with the development of Oceanography as marine science shifts decisively towards interdisciplinarity, big data, artificial intelligence, and digital ocean twins. Consequently, modern education extends beyond traditional expertise, broadening to encompass data analytics, mathematical modelling, forecasting, and the application of advanced technologies within Earth Sciences.

Building upon educational frameworks, subsequent presentations addressed the practical challenges confronting Southern Ģ����ý and the Mekong Delta. Climate change imposes distinct pressures on these areas, manifested through altered rainy seasons, intensifying heatwaves, saline intrusion, alongside risks of torrential rainfall, high tides, coastal erosion, and anomalous sea-level rise. Numerous experts asserted that enhancing observation, forecasting, and early warning capabilities must be prioritised. This objective requires the integration of meteorological-hydrological data, remote sensing, radar/satellite imagery, and sophisticated numerical models.

Moving beyond risk identification, the discussions expanded towards adaptive solutions for coastal zones, particularly as erosion, land subsidence, and mangrove degradation grow increasingly complex. Rather than relying solely on traditional hard engineering structures, contemporary strategies favour a combination of hard and soft engineering, nature-based solutions, and ecosystem restoration. Wave-attenuating dykes, sediment sedimentation models, mangrove protection, and coastal space development are regarded not merely as technical measures, but as integral components of long-term adaptation strategies.

From a managerial perspective, the presentations highlighted the necessity of a sustainable blue economy, integrated coastal zone management, and the utilisation of digital technologies in planning, warning systems, and decision-making. This approach demonstrates that contemporary oceanographic research remains inseparable from socio-economic considerations, local livelihoods, infrastructure, ecosystem conservation, and the sustainable development of coastal communities.

Alongside the presentation and discussion sessions, an exhibition in the lobby of Hall I showcased various models, scientific products, and posters relating to Oceanography, Meteorology, Hydrology, and Environmental Science. This exhibition offered attendees, particularly students, an interactive opportunity to engage directly with the research directions, equipment, and technologies currently deployed in marine science.

 

The ‘Marine Space and Climate Change’ symposium has fostered stronger networks between educational institutions, research institutes, and specialised agencies, whilst opening new perspectives on the role of marine science in addressing sustainable development challenges. The event also provided a valuable opportunity for students to engage with contemporary issues in the field, thereby raising awareness and responsibility towards the effective protection and exploitation of marine resources, contributing to the future sustainable development of the nation.

 

Representatives from the Management Board of the Ho Chi Minh City High-Tech Agricultural Zone, the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Industry and Trade, and VNUHCM–University of Science performing the launching ritual for the 2026 Innovation and Start-up Competition in High-Tech Agriculture.

On 29 May, at VNUHCM–University of Science, the Management Board of the Ho Chi Minh City High-Tech Agricultural Zone, in collaboration with HCMUS, organised the launch ceremony for the 2026 Innovation and Start-up Competition in High-Tech Agriculture. Under the theme “Circular Agriculture – Shaping a Green Future”, the competition aims to promote ideas and projects that apply science, technology, and innovation to agricultural development, focusing on green, circular, and sustainable models.

The event was attended by Mr Nguyễn Duy Sơn, Vice Head of the Management Board of the Ho Chi Minh City High-Tech Agricultural Zone; Ms Bùi Thị Lưu Ly, representing the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Industry and Trade and member of the competition’s Organising Committee; and Ms Vương Thị Hồng Loan, Director of the High-Tech Agricultural Business Incubator. Representing HCMUS were Assoc. Prof. Trần Lê Quan, President of the University, along with representatives from various offices, lecturers, researchers, postgraduate students, and undergraduates interested in innovative start-up activities.

In the opening address, Mr Nguyễn Duy Sơn emphasised the significance of connecting resources from state management agencies, educational institutions, businesses, and experts to foster the innovation ecosystem within high-tech agriculture. According to Mr Nguyễn Duy Sơn, as green transition and sustainable development become inevitable global trends, circular agricultural models offer numerous opportunities for start-up initiatives rich in scientific and technological content, contributing to resolving challenges related to the environment, natural resources, and climate change.

In the welcoming speech, Assoc. Prof. Trần Lê Quan affirmed that HCMUS consistently regards scientific research, technology transfer, and innovative entrepreneurship as key pillars in the strategic development of the institution. The President highly commended the collaboration with the Management Board of the Ho Chi Minh City High-Tech Agricultural Zone, which provides students, researchers, and faculty members with further avenues to access start-up support programmes tailored to the practical needs of society and industry.

Within the framework of the programme, the Management Board of the Ho Chi Minh City High-Tech Agricultural Zone presented a letter of appreciation to HCMUS to acknowledge the invaluable partnership of the University in organising and advancing activities that support the innovative start-up ecosystem.

Alongside the official launch, the event featured keynote presentations addressing trends in circular agriculture and the commercialisation of scientific research outcomes.

Dr Nguyễn Hữu Hoàng, Director of the High-Tech Agricultural Applied Research Centre at HCMUS, delivered a presentation entitled “Commercialising Research Products in Agricultural Science – Key Case Studies”. The presentation shared practical insights into transforming research findings into viable, marketable products, thereby enhancing the value of scientific research activities.

Mr Tôn Thất Hạc Minh, a consultant specialising in sustainable development and the circular economy, and founder of EarthWise Consulting, presented on “Circular Agriculture Towards Net Zero”. The report provided updated insights into green transition trends in agriculture whilst highlighting the role of innovation in reducing emissions, optimising resource efficiency, and adapting to climate change.

From a corporate perspective, Dr Nguyễn Thị Vân Linh, Director of VinaCrop Co., Ltd. and Head of the Department of Food Technology at Nguyen Tat Thanh University, shared experiences in establishing and developing circular agricultural models, whilst exploring collaborative opportunities between enterprises and academic institutions in research, product development, and innovation.

The highlight of the event was the official launching ceremony, performed by representatives from the Organising Committee and collaborating institutions. The 2026 Innovation and Start-up Competition in High-Tech Agriculture is anticipated to serve as a vital bridge connecting scientific knowledge, industry demands, and resources that foster innovation. Through this initiative, promising ideas and projects will receive incubation, refinement, and eventual commercialisation, driving high-tech agriculture, the circular economy, and green growth forward into a new era.

From 21 to 22 May, the Faculty of Environment at VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) hosted the First Asia-Pacific Network Regional Training Workshop on Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and Mercury Monitoring in PM_2.5. The initiative was implemented under the framework of the APN CRRP2025-08MY-To project, funded by the Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research (APN) and led by Associate Professor Tô Thị Hiền.

The workshop brought together scientists, experts, and representatives from universities, research institutes, and scientific organisations across Ģ����ý, Japan, the United States, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Taiwan, India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. Discussions focused primarily on air quality monitoring, research into emerging pollutants, and the strengthening of research collaboration within the Asia-Pacific region.

During the programme, delegates presented and discussed various specialist topics regarding the current state of research into PFAS and mercury in the atmospheric environment. Further discussions addressed methods for monitoring, sampling, and analysing PFAS in PM_2.5, alongside research trends and monitoring strategies for emerging pollutants in the Asia-Pacific region, whilst fostering the exchange of research expertise and international collaboration among member states.

Alongside academic sessions, the workshop featured laboratory tours at both the Nguyen Van Cu and Dong Hoa campuses of HCMUS. These visits served to demonstrate the analytical instrumentation, sampling procedures, and research capabilities in air quality analysis maintained by the Faculty of Environment.

Through academic exchanges and professional activities, the workshop provided a valuable platform for scientists to share research findings, exchange experiences, and discuss future collaborative directions in air quality monitoring and emerging pollutants. The event further underscores the significant role of HCMUS in environmental research, education, and academic networking within the Asia-Pacific region.

Selected photographs from the Workshop.

 

On 20 May, the Faculty of Environment at VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) hosted an international scientific seminar entitled ‘The Benefit of Earth Observations from Space: A Look at Air Quality’. The event featured a keynote presentation by Dr James H. Crawford from the NASA Langley Research Center (USA), attracting a significant audience of lecturers, researchers, and students interested in environmental and atmospheric sciences.

Against a global backdrop of escalating air pollution and climate change, the application of Earth observation technology from space is pioneering new approaches to environmental research and air quality management. This seminar served as an academic forum to exchange knowledge, update modern research trends, and connect students and researchers with scientific advancements currently being implemented worldwide.

During the event, Dr James H. Crawford presented findings regarding the role of space-based Earth observations in studying and assessing air quality. The report focused on contemporary approaches in atmospheric research, such as tropospheric photochemical modelling, studies of ozone and atmospheric trace gases, and the integration of field measurements with satellite data to enhance the precision of air quality models.

In addition to technical content, Dr Crawford introduced various applications of satellite data within environmental and atmospheric sciences. The discussions provided further insight into utilizing satellite observations for monitoring and evaluating the atmospheric environment, while enabling participants to explore current research trajectories in the field of atmospheric science.

The discussion session saw lecturers, researchers, and students engage with the speaker regarding the potential for applying satellite data to environmental research in Ģ����ý, air quality assessment methodologies, and the evolving trends of Earth observation technology in atmospheric research. These vibrant academic exchanges reflect a growing interest in interdisciplinary research spanning environment, space technology, and data science.

Through the seminar, attendees gained access to modern research trends in atmospheric science and developed a deeper understanding of how to combine space observation data with field data in environmental studies. The programme also facilitated broader international academic connections, allowing HCMUS staff and students to access cutting-edge technologies employed in global environmental research.

In the current of modern science, data retrieved from space are no longer distant figures; such information is increasingly becoming a vital tool for understanding the atmosphere and the living environment. Through these academic connections, science not only expands knowledge but also fosters a sense of responsibility towards environmental longevity and sustainable development.

 

On 10 March 2026, VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) held a ceremony to launch the CASA-VN sub-project and hand over the automated air quality monitoring station (AQMS). This initiative forms part of the ‘Clean Air for Sustainable ASEAN’ (CASA) project, a regional collaboration designed to bolster air quality monitoring and management capabilities across Southeast Asian nations.

The CASA project is funded by the ASEAN–Korea Cooperation Fund and led by Seoul National University. In Ģ����ý, the CASA-VN sub-project is implemented in coordination with Ģ����ý National University Ho Chi Minh City, with HCMUS being the unit directly implementing and operating the monitoring system.

Within the framework of the programme, the automated air quality monitoring station (AQMS) was handed over and installed at HCMUS. In Ģ����ý, the CASA project supports the deployment of two monitoring stations in Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City to strengthen the air quality tracking system and serve environmental research. The station located at HCMUS is one of the stations belonging to the CASA project monitoring network in the ASEAN region, which has been deployed in many countries across the area.

The AQMS is an automated monitoring system capable of continuous tracking of air quality parameters such as fine particulate matter PM_2.5, PM₁₀ and several common pollutants. Data from the system is updated in real-time, serving research on urban environments, analysis of air pollution trends, and providing a scientific basis for developing air quality management solutions. This data source will also be integrated into the University’s training and research activities.

Representing the University, Assoc.Prof. Trần Lê Quan – President of HCMUS – stated that air pollution is becoming one of the notable environmental and public health challenges in many large cities. The implementation of the CASA-VN sub-project not only contributes to improving environmental monitoring capacity but also creates a foundation for scientific research activities and academic cooperation in the field of air quality management.

In the context of ASEAN countries strengthening research cooperation on the environment and climate change, regional cooperation initiatives such as the CASA project play an important role in connecting scientific resources and sharing monitoring data between countries.

Speaking at the event, GS. Kiyoung Lee – CASA Project Manager, Seoul National University – expressed expectation that the CASA-VN sub-project will promote cooperation in training and research between Seoul National University and HCMUS, while contributing to expanding the air quality research network in the region.

In the coming time, monitoring data from the AQMS system will be shared within the CASA project research network in the ASEAN region, contributing to supporting interdisciplinary research and providing a scientific basis for building air quality improvement policies. The project also opens opportunities to strengthen cooperation between Vietnamese and South Korean scientists in the field of environmental science, thereby promoting research and the training of high-quality human resources serving the sustainable development of the region.

On 14 November, the Faculty of Physics – Engineering Physics, VNUHCM-University of Science inaugurated the Workshop on Marine Science and Sustainable Development, a special event marking the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Oceanography discipline within the Department of Oceanography, Meteorology, and Hydrology. The opening ceremony took place in an exciting atmosphere, attended by many scientists, international experts, and young researchers who shared scientific perspectives on the ocean.

Speaking at the Opening Ceremony, Assoc. Prof. Trần Lê Quan—President of the University—expressed his honour in welcoming scientists, experts, and young researchers to this meaningful forum. The President of the University affirmed the critical role of the workshop: “Today’s event brings together scientists, experts, and young researchers to share the latest findings and innovative ideas aimed at a sustainable future for our oceans. This cooperation not only promotes marine science but also strengthens global connectivity in addressing shared challenges such as climate change, marine pollution, and sustainable coastal management.”

The Marine Science and Sustainable Development Workshop included 16 presentations, divided into three specialised discussion sessions:

Session 1: Marine Science and Sustainable Development

This session featured talks on the 20-year journey of OMH@HCMUS by Vo Luong Hong Phuoc; the advancement of coastal monitoring with indigenous HF radar development, presented by Hwa Chien; global trends in oceanic fronts and their implications for marine ecosystems, presented by Andrew Fischer, Kai Yang, and Phuc TD. Le; high-precision measurements in marine chemistry (DMS as example) surviving and advancing in any environment, presented by Sohiko Kameyama; and machine learning applications for classification and regression, presented by Quoc Pham.

Session 2: Microplastics – From Research to Forecasting

This session focused on urgent environmental challenges, beginning with Chemicaldrift – a new open source ocean pollution model, presented by Lars R. Hole, Manuel Aghito, and Øyvind Breivik. Further presentations included surface water contamination with microplastics in Poland, detailing trends and challenges, by Piotr Zieliński and Karolina Mierzyńska; classification and prediction of microplastics by Vo Luong Hong Phuoc and colleagues; the challenges and opportunities of detection and classification of microplastics using artificial intelligence, presented by Pham The Bao and a large group of co-authors; and integrating AI and GIS for forecasting saltwater intrusion in Ho Chi Minh City, Ģ����ý under climate change, presented by Vo Thi Kim Kieu, Pham Thi Tuyet Huyen, and Nguyen Kim Loi.

Session 3: River–Sea Processes and Coastal Zones

This session addressed dynamic environments, with topics covering the formation mechanism of a sand bar in Cua Dai – Thu Bon River mouth, presented by Vu Tuan Anh and Nguyen Thi Thuy Dung; sub-mesoscale flows and near-inertial motions in the Mississippi-Atchafalaya River plume in the Gulf of Mexico, presented by Pat Welch; water resource characteristics of the Mekong Delta, including current status, challenges, and sustainable management solutions, presented by Tran Dang An; the use of sand on a global scale and the impact on the marine environment, by Klaus Schwarzer; coastal protection strategies with nature-based solution for climate change adaptation in coastal Mekong Delta, presented by Le Xuan Tu; and shifting tidal dynamics in the Mekong Delta, unravelling the acceleration of tidal amplification and its anthropogenic roots, presented by Nguyen Cong Thanh, Tran Van Xuan, Nguyen Nghia Hung, and Dang Truong An.

The event was attended by many scientists, international experts, and young researchers.

The workshop concluded with an affirmation of the crucial role of marine science in providing data, solutions, and strategic direction to protect the ocean sustainably and promptly against current environmental fluctuations. The specialised discussion sessions highlighted the importance of applying modern technology—from HF radar and precise chemical measurement methods to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning—to enhance the capacity for monitoring and forecasting complex ocean systems. The focus of the workshop was not only on basic research into ocean dynamics but also extended to urgent environmental challenges such as microplastic pollution on surface waters and the impact of climate change on coastal areas and estuaries. The solutions presented, from marine pollution modelling to nature-based coastal protection strategies, demonstrated the transformation of scientific knowledge into strategic action.

Celebrating the fifteenth anniversary of the Science Film Festival, the Goethe-Institut Ho Chi Minh City, under the patronage of the Consulate General of Germany and in collaboration with various partners, convened Science Fair 2025 – a special event bearing the theme ‘Curious little minds today – Sustainable change tomorrow.’

The fair sought to establish connections among organisations engaged in education, innovation, and sustainable development, while fostering an environment where science, education, and art converged. Designed for children, young people, and science enthusiasts, Science Fair 2025 presented a series of STEM activities, interactive exhibitions, and thematic discussions. The programme cultivated curiosity, a passion for learning, and a sense of environmental responsibility through a dynamic synthesis of creativity and scientific exploration.

As a long-standing partner of the Science Film Festival Ģ����ý, VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) contributed to advancing sustainability education through initiatives coordinated by the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Sciences. The Faculty introduced a variety of experiential learning opportunities combining technology, creativity, and environmental awareness.

The AR–VR station enabled visitors to design traditional Hoi An lanterns through augmented reality, effectively bridging cultural heritage with modern technological innovation. The Climate Fresk board game guided participants to examine causes and strategies for addressing climate change through interactive engagement. STEM-based games such as Green Footprint (carbon footprint), Mo-no-poly (polymer science), and ‘Green Career’ activities—including quizzes and picture-based challenges—attracted significant interest, conveying the imperative of sustainable living in daily practice.

Pupils and students engaging enthusiastically with the event activities.

Notably, within the framework of the Science in Dialogues series, Dr Nguyễn Hà Hùng Chương, a lecturer at the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Sciences (HCMUS), delivered an insightful talk titled ‘Green Career Orientation.’ The session focused on elucidating the concept of a ‘Green Career’ and the status of the sector as an inevitable global trend.

Dr Chương addressed the means by which students across all disciplines could ‘green’ future professions, whilst analysing the requisite skills and employment opportunities within the context of the global green transition. These perspectives assisted learners in clearly identifying the nexus between scientific knowledge, social responsibility, and sustainable career pathways.

 

Dr Nguyễn Hà Hùng Chương (first picture) delivering a presentation on “Green Career Orientation,” alongside fellow speakers addressing broader themes of the green transition and sustainable development.