Environmental pollution from intensive livestock farming has become a pressing issue, with recent incidents reported across various provinces. Authorities have raised alarms over practices leading to the discharge of untreated waste, causing significant environmental concerns such as unpleasant odors and water pollution. This situation has especially impacted local communities, as exemplified by recent actions taken against bà Lê Thị Chính, who was fined for operating her pig farm without proper permissions and handling of waste.
On March 2, 2025, the local government of Giao An, Lang Chánh District, Thanh Hóa, revealed they had imposed an 8 million VND fine on bà Chính for her illegal pig farming operations. The investigation showed her farm was discharging untreated wastewater, significantly disturbing the local environment and drawing public ire. Residents expressed their discontent with the persistent pollution, prompting governmental intervention.
Local authorities have intensified checks and enhanced surveillance of livestock farm operations to prevent pollution issues. The past two years have seen increased collaboration among government departments to tackle the issues caused by intensive farming. For example, Phú Yên province has approximately 280 pig farms, with only 23 being approved to handle waste properly according to environmental impact reports, and many smaller farms lack any oversight at all. The pressing need for regulatory action was underscored during inspections where several farms were found neglecting environmental standards.
Hồ Thị Nguyên Thảo, Deputy Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee, highlighted the collaboration between various agencies and local governments to monitor and address these issues. The push for larger, more efficient livestock farms aims to transition from small-scale to large-scale modern farming practices but has encountered substantial environmental backlash, necessitating stricter guidelines and inspections.
Notably, technology adoption has emerged as a promising solution to reduce pollution levels. Farms like C.P.F, located in Sơn Hòa district, have recently noted significant improvements thanks to tech investments aimed at environmental management. Huỳnh Nhật, owner of C.P.F, described how they implemented the "three key technologies" which include using low-protein feed to reduce emissions, managing waste disposal directly within barns before ventilation, and utilizing modern manure separation machines for wastewater treatment. These changes have resulted in significant decreases of odors previously emitted from the farm.
Another example is the high-tech dairy farm managed by Lưu Hoài Nam, who mentioned their efforts to reduce odors through increased spraying of bio-preparations at identified hotspots, which markedly improved unpleasant conditions. Their commitment extends to communal responsibilities, as they provide approximately 500-600 kg of manure each month to local farmers, enhancing agricultural productivity sustainably.
Although these efforts show promise, some farms still struggle, such as those run by Phúc Huy Gia Lai. Phan Đình Huy, its director, noted the company has held dialogues with local residents about odor concerns and has invested resources to mitigate them, yet challenges remain. Huy pointed out the introduction of systems to spray down odors effectively, though some localized odor issues persist within the farm's compound.
Further steps are being taken as the Phú Yên Department of Agriculture prepares to host specialized workshops and surveys, collaborating with environmental experts to review and refine pollution reduction techniques. Nguyễn Thái Hòa from the Department indicated the necessity for sustained technology improvements and monitoring frameworks to mitigate the impact of livestock farming on surrounding environments.
While the issue of environmental sustainability versus agricultural efficiency remains contentious, collaborative efforts between livestock operators, local governments, and experts portray a movement toward resolution. The goal remains to find harmony where agricultural expansion does not infringe upon environmental integrity. This will require continued oversight and the adoption of innovative technologies to uplift both agricultural practices and community health.