The initiative, launched in May, has quickly gained popularity on the Internet and has served as a source of inspiration for others in Vietnam to participate.
Wrapped Hope
According to Pham Quang Thai, a member of the Central Highlands Association for the Protection of Natural Resources and the Environment, the bombs are made using a combination of soil, organic fertilizer, and rice husks. These bombs also contain seeds of plants with strong vitality and high tolerance to drought conditions.
Prior to disposal, the seeds are adequately moistened to maximize germination rates, fostering the restoration of devastated forest ecosystems.
The core members of the group conducted thorough research and carefully selected plants that are suitable for the local soil. This prudent approach was taken before proceeding with the project implementation.
After carefully preparing seed bombs, the conservation team proceeded to target hills that had endured significant deforestation. Their mission was to restore these devastated areas by dispersing the seed bombs strategically.
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| Young people and children learn how to make a seed bomb in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. Photo: Khoi Minh / Tuoi Tre |
According to Thai, the technique of forest regeneration using seed bombs was originally developed and introduced in India.
In specific regions, aerial distribution of seed carriers is practiced via aircraft.
“In challenging environments, we excavate holes to facilitate the insertion of seed bombs, thereby fostering conducive conditions for their growth,” Thai elucidated.
Ha Vi, a 22-year-old from Dak Lak, expressed that she found the activities to be both captivating and significant.
“Wandering through hills while dropping seed bombs is also an excellent method of physical exercise,” she suggested.
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| A seed starts sprouting after being thrown into a forest in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. Photo: Khoi Minh / Tuoi Tre |
Seeds of Good Deeds
In response to the initiative, a group of local travel agents has developed innovative tour packages that combine tourism with forest planting activities.
According to Pham Thanh Tuan, the founder of Bo Cong Anh Social Enterprise in Dak Lak, the project has not only contributed to forest restoration but has also successfully promoted environmental awareness among students and young individuals.
“Therefore, we aim to incorporate this activity into our tour packages to increase participation,” he emphasized.
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| A tourist hangs an identification card on a tree he plants in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. Photo: Khoi Minh / Tuoi Tre |
In addition to seed bombs, tourists also transported bare seeds and seedlings with the intention of cultivating plants under the supervision of local forest rangers.
“At our nursery, we diligently assign an identification code to each plant to indicate the responsible individual who planted it,” stated Tuan.
The organization aims to establish a seed bank by collaborating with local farmers in the Central Highlands region, known for its rich variety of indigenous fruit trees. Through this initiative, collected seeds will be carefully nurtured and eventually planted in forests, preserving and promoting the region’s unique ecosystem.
“It is truly gratifying to witness the seeds we sow today flourish vigorously and clothe once barren hills,” expressed Phan Duy Nghia, an accomplished eleventh grader.
Pham Chi Ta, the director of Vietnam Highland Travel Agency, expressed his desire to incorporate seed bomb spreading activities into their tours.
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| Several seeds are wrapped in a soil ball. Photo: Khoi Minh / Tuoi Tre |
The company will need to undertake the necessary legal procedures to determine suitable locations for forest plantations, as stated by Ta.
However, he expressed optimism regarding the positive effects that the activity would have on local communities.
“I regularly embark on forest expeditions to create and refine tour packages, while also collaborating closely with forest owners and management boards,” he explained.
“I am excited about the opportunity to bring tourists to damaged forests, where they will have the chance to contribute by scattering seed bombs and assisting in the regeneration efforts.”
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| A young family participates in a weekend forest planting event in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. Photo: Tam An / Tuoi Tre |
According to Mr. Do Xuan Dung, Deputy Director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in Dak Lak, it is crucial to replicate this initiative in various regions in order to prevent the decline of our forests.
One innovative way that the idea of seed bombs is being promoted is through its integration into tours. This not only helps to spread the idea of seed bombing to a broader audience, but also serves as an engaging and educational activity during tours.
“We provide unwavering support,” he expressed.
“If young individuals and enterprises seek to engage with forest owners and management boards, we offer assistance in establishing connections between them.”
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