Analysing Consequences of Aquaculture in Coastal Water Bodies of Ba Ria– Vung Tau, Vietnam on Sustainable Development Goals for Environmental Management

Abstract

Aquaculture is vital for global food security and economic growth, particularly in coastal regions like Ba Ria – Vung Tau, Vietnam. This province has seen significant aquaculture growth, with production rising from 10,687 tons in 2010 to 20,486 tons in 2022. Key species farmed include brackish water shrimp, marine finfish, and mollusks, using methods such as cage culture, pond farming, and Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA). However, aquaculture poses environmental challenges, including conflicts over coastal space, waste management, and habitat degradation. Species like oysters and mussels help improve water quality and support balanced ecosystems, while marine finfish farming can cause nutrient overload and eutrophication. Sustainable practices like IMTA, waste management, and sustainable feed use are essential to mitigate these impacts. Aligning aquaculture with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 14 (Life Below Water), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action), is crucial for sustainable coastal management. This requires robust regulations, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and the integration of scientific research into policy. By ensuring aquaculture practices support SDGs, Ba Ria – Vung Tau can enhance environmental stewardship, economic resilience, and the sustainable coexistence of human activities with marine ecosystems.