"There is no denying climate change anymore, there is a need to adapt to what is now a clear and present danger," Richard Fuchs, Regional Director for IDRC (International Development Research Centre) said.

A book titled "The Economics of Environmental Management in Vietnam" was released Friday as part of the conference. It is a culmination of the combined efforts of about sixteen years of research from IDRC. They are trying to reach both university students and policymakers to make them aware of what is now a globally pressing issue.

The conference addresses many of the problems and issues on how to confront climate change. IDRC acknowledges that the economy and the environment are interrelated, and there are many questions about how and who should pay for and initiate the necessary changes.

Vietnam is being confronted with these issues as its development moves along. The fast growth and urbanisation of Vietnam has put the environment under a lot of pressures, especially around the Mekong Delta which is the lifeline for so many people here. According to a map that shows climate change vulnerability produced by EEPSEA, "Among the top 10 vulnerable provinces in Vietnam, eight are located in the Mekong River Delta." These same 10 provinces are among the top 25% of the most vulnerable areas in all of Southeast Asia.

The conference is aimed at awareness, ideas, problems and discussion on what steps can be taken to handle climate change. IDRC strongly believes that knowledge and scientific research are keys to providing answers.

The climate maps that have been produced by IDRC have generated the interest of researchers, academics and governments. They are a tool that can be used to show the impact of climate change and are a call to action.

Herminia Francisco, Director of IDRC, commended Vietnam for making strides and taking a firm stance towards effective environmental protection. According to Francisco, Vietnam can be cited as an example for its efforts.

PhD Bui Dung The sees Vietnam emerging as a middle income nation in the next ten years, and with the added economical value of Vietnam, there will also be added responsibility.

There will need to be a balance between economic ambitions and environmental issues, which is what the conference is highlighting.

(Dan Tri, 28/2/2010)