Prepared by ALiSEA & Gret Vietnam

Date: 27 June 2025 | Location: Chieng Ban commune, Mai Son district, Son La province

On June 27, 2025, NOMAFSI (Northern Mountainous Agriculture and Forestry Science Institute) organized a final workshop to review and gather feedback on a pilot project that treats wastewater and by-products from coffee processing. This project was part of the ALiSEA Small Grant Facility, under the ASSET project, led by GRET and supported by AFD, the EU, and FFEM.

The event gathered 53 people (23 women and 30 men), including representatives from:

• ALiSEA Vietnam and GRET Vietnam

• Local government and technical departments

• Tay Bac University

• Coffee cooperatives, companies, and local farmers involved in the project

Key Presentations:

1. NOMAFSI shared results of the pilot model at Thai Viet Cooperative.

2. Mr. Dang Van Cong (Tay Bac University) explained the current issues with coffee waste in Son La and presented results from using coffee husks.

3. A Son La government officer presented key policies promoting sustainable coffee farming, such as Decision 860 and Plan 91.

What Participants Said:

Cooperatives and local farmers appreciated the model because it:

• Has low cost and is easy to run and maintain

• Helps cooperatives reduce pollution

• Produces compost that can be used directly on farms

Recommendations:

• Expand the model to more coffee areas in Son La

• Provide funding support for small cooperatives

• Offer technical guidance on how to safely reuse treated water

• Strengthen training and cooperation among farmers, cooperatives, and businesses

More details in the news article: Vietnam Agriculture and Environment News