Roles and effects of transformative social learning toward sustainable livelihood transformation to climate change adaptation in the Vietnam Mekong Delta: The VACB model case study in Can Tho

Abstract

Sustainable livelihood transformation to climate change adaptation is an ongoing challenge worldwide. To cope with changing the climate, demographics, and market conditions in Vietnam, many livelihood models have been established in several localities in the Mekong Delta. This study aims to evaluate the effects of transformative social learning on the transition to the VACB (V-garden/orchard, A-fishing farm, C-livestock farm, B-biogas) livelihood model in Can Tho, confirming the needs and requirements to promote livelihood transformation more success for sustainability. This community was selected to conduct the study as it represents the entire nexus of climate change-water-food-energy-social justice and provides insights into the challenges of transformative social learning for sustainability in the Mekong Delta. Primary data was collected through in-depth interviews; focus workshop discussion, and semi-structured interviews. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the roles of transformative social learning and its effects towards sustainable livelihood transformation to climate change adaptation. The findings showed that transformative social learning has been accompanied and positively impacted on the economic, social, and environmental development. In addition, this learning process also transfers awareness, beliefs, attitudes, and social relationships in the community.