Vietnam's national airline, Vietnam Airlines, in collaboration with the Center for People and Nature (PanNature) and MoMo e-wallet, launched the "Gop La Va Rung" (Contributing Leaves to Patch the Forest) program for 2026. This marks the third consecutive year the airline has partnered in natural forest restoration efforts, aiming to conserve biodiversity and foster sustainable development.

This year, the program aims to restore a minimum of 72 hectares of natural forest by planting 43,400 native trees within the Xuan Nha Nature Reserve and the Van Ho - Hang Kia - Pa Co ecological corridor in Son La. A Vietnam Airlines representative noted that this area boasts high biodiversity in the Northwest region, home to many rare animal and plant species, including the white-cheeked black gibbon, a critically endangered primate.

Representatives from Vietnam Airlines and its partners actively participate in forest restoration using native tree species. Photo: Vietnam Airlines

For this year's implementation, Vietnam Airlines, in coordination with PanNature, MoMo, local authorities, and residents, is planting native tree species such as `gu huong`, `re`, `nghien`, `que`, `tram den`, `lat hoa`, `doi`, `de gai`, `sau`, and `mo`. These species were selected for their suitability to the natural conditions of Xuan Nha and the Van Ho - Hang Kia - Pa Co ecological corridor, ensuring higher survival rates, improving forest quality, and restoring habitats for wild species.

According to the organizers, planting native trees helps reconnect fragmented habitats, protect upstream water sources, increase carbon absorption, and create livelihoods for local communities. The program also supports Vietnam's National Biodiversity Strategy and its goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

This year's program aims to revitalize a minimum of 72 hectares of natural forest, planting 43,400 trees. Photo: Vietnam Airlines

Following two years of implementation since 2024, the program has restored 150 hectares of natural forest, planting over 95,000 native trees in Hoa Binh and Son La, achieving a tree survival rate of 70-86%. Over 350 volunteers, including local officials, residents, and corporate representatives, participated in planting and caring for the forests. The organizing unit stated that these results provide a foundation for the program's expansion this year.

Dinh Van Tuan, Deputy General Director of Vietnam Airlines, affirmed that environmental protection and sustainable development are integral to the airline's production and business operations. Through the "Gop La Va Rung" program, the company aims to work with partners and the community to restore natural forests, protect biodiversity, and create value for both the environment and local residents.

The selected tree species are suitable for the natural conditions of the local areas. Photo: Vietnam Airlines

As the national airline, Vietnam Airlines is implementing various emission reduction solutions, including using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), operating a new-generation aircraft fleet, applying technology for optimized operations, and conducting its "Bay Nhe" (Light Flight) campaign. The company anticipates that the "Gop La Va Rung" program will continue to inspire community involvement in natural forest protection, contributing to sustainable development goals.

By Thai Anh