Achieving Water Security and Addressing Climate Risks in the Mekong Delta

Abstract

Vietnam's Mekong Delta is considered one of the world's most vulnerable areas to climate change. Its 21 million inhabitants are increasingly exposed to consequences of sea level rise, salinity intrusion, and climate variability. Upstream developments exacerbate declining water security, particularly by substantially changing water flow conditions and sediment transport. Since the National Target Program to Respond to Climate Change (2008), Vietnam has enacted several adaptation focused policies and planning strategies, which have been championed by the highest levels of Government. This chapter synthesizes main findings regarding climate change vulnerabilities and adaptation strategies for Vietnam's Mekong Delta.