Center for Technology and Nature Conservation

CTNC – Saving species, restoring ecosystems, inspiring coexistence.

[Center for Technology and Nature Conservation @ctnc2019]

CTNC establishes the Community Patrol Team (CPT) at Hoc Chim
As part of our commitment to strengthening on-the-ground biodiversity conservation, the Center for Nature Conservation and Technology (CTNC) has officially established the Community Patrol Team (CPT) at Hoc Chim. The CPT is a community-based patrol unit dedicated to supporting forest protection through joint patrols, wildlife snare removal, and biodiversity monitoring. Working alongside professional forest rangers, the team will:
1. Conduct regular forest patrols to detect and prevent illegal activities;
2. Survey and remove illegal wildlife snares;
3. Record wildlife observations and signs using GPS-enabled field documentation;
4. Collect standardized field data through SMART Mobile to support long-term biodiversity monitoring and adaptive management.
On 25–26 July, the CPT carried out its first patrol within the Hoc Chim Forest Protection Management Unit, marking the beginning of a trained community patrol force working hand in hand with local forest protection efforts.
Each team member has pledged not to hunt, set snares, or engage in activities that threaten wildlife, while actively contributing to the protection of forest ecosystems and the conservation of threatened, endangered, and protected species.

The establishment of the Community Patrol Team (CPT)represents an important milestone in CTNC's community-based conservationapproach. By combining local community engagement, field patrols, and technology-driven monitoring, we aim to reduce threats to wildlife, strengthen forest protection, and contribute to more effective and sustainable conservation outcomes.
#CTNC #CommunityPatrolTeam #CPT #ForestProtection #SnareRemoval #WildlifeConservation #SMARTMobile #NatureConservation

[Center for Technology and Nature Conservation @ctnc2019]

🌿 EDUCATIONAL CAMPAIGNS TOUR: “PROTECT WILDLIFE, PRESERVE THE GREEN OF BAC HAI VAN” 🦋

From late March to early April 2026, an inspiring journey of environmental education reached nearly 2,000 students across Lang Co, Loc Thuy, and Loc Tien secondary schools. Through the vibrant Golden Bell Challenge, 301 outstanding contestants stepped into an exciting “learn through play” experience—exploring wildlife protection laws, biodiversity values, and the importance of preserving a green, clean environment.

✨ More than just a competition, the program empowered students to become young ambassadors for nature, spreading awareness and love for wildlife within their communities.

🔥 With energy, enthusiasm, and knowledge on full display, three exceptional students proudly rang the Golden Bell:
• Mai Thai Tran (Class 8/2, Lang Co Secondary School)
• Dang La Thanh Hang (Class 8/1, Loc Thuy Secondary School)
• Bui Thuy Thanh Giang (Class 8/5, Loc Tien Secondary School)

💚 Beyond the competition, 1,000 notebooks carrying conservation messages were gifted to students in need—supporting education while nurturing dreams and environmental responsibility.

Together, we reaffirm: protecting wildlife and preserving Bac Hai Van’s green future is a shared mission—led not only by today’s leaders, but by the next generation. 🌏

#ProtectWildlife #BiodiversityConservation #EnvironmentalEducation #YouthForNature #GreenVietnam #BacHaiVan #Sustainability #ClimateAction #CTNC

[Center for Technology and Nature Conservation @ctnc2019]

NÂNG CAO NĂNG LỰC GIÁM SÁT TUẦN TRA BẰNG CÔNG NGHỆ SMART TẠI NINH HÒA - VẠN NINH
🗓️Từ ngày 16/03 đến 18/03/2026, Trung tâm Công nghệ và Bảo tồn thiên nhiên (CTNC) đã phối hợp cùng Ban Quản lý Rừng phòng hộ Ninh Hòa - Vạn Ninh tổ chức khóa tập huấn chuyên sâu về công cụ SMART (Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool). Với sự tham gia của hơn 27 cán bộ nòng cốt, khóa học không chỉ là một hoạt động nâng cao nghiệp vụ đơn thuần mà còn là bước khởi đầu cho lộ trình hiện đại hóa công tác quản lý bảo vệ rừng tại khu vực này.
📱💻Trọng tâm của khóa tập huấn là việc làm chủ hệ thống SMART Desktop và SMART Mobile — bộ công cụ tiên phong trong việc số hóa dữ liệu tuần tra. Thay vì ghi chép thủ công, các cán bộ giờ đây có thể thu thập thông tin về đa dạng sinh học, theo dõi biến động rừng và ghi nhận các hành vi xâm hại tài nguyên thiên nhiên một cách chính xác, minh bạch ngay tại hiện trường. Việc chuyển đổi này giúp chuẩn hóa toàn bộ hệ thống dữ liệu, tạo cơ sở khoa học giúp lãnh đạo Ban có cái nhìn tổng thể và đưa ra các quyết định quản lý kịp thời, hiệu quả hơn.
📍Đối với CTNC, Ninh Hòa - Vạn Ninh không chỉ là một địa bàn bảo tồn thông thường mà còn là khu vực trọng điểm trong chiến lược dài hạn. Với mục tiêu xây dựng hồ sơ đề xuất thành lập Vườn Quốc gia tương lai với quy mô lên đến 130.000 ha, việc áp dụng SMART chính là bước chuẩn bị tất yếu. Một hệ thống dữ liệu chuẩn mực và minh bạch từ hôm nay sẽ là minh chứng thuyết phục nhất về giá trị đa dạng sinh học và hiệu quả quản lý của khu vực trong hồ sơ đề xuất sắp tới.
✨Mỗi chuyến tuần tra, mỗi dữ liệu được ghi nhận qua SMART ngày hôm nay chính là những "viên gạch" đầu tiên xây dựng nên tương lai của Vườn Quốc gia Ninh Hòa - Vạn Ninh. Chúng tôi tin rằng, với sự hỗ trợ của công nghệ và tâm huyết của đội ngũ cán bộ, nguồn tài nguyên thiên nhiên quý giá tại đây sẽ được bảo vệ bền vững cho các thế hệ mai sau.
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ENHANCING PATROL MONITORING CAPACITY WITH SMART TECHNOLOGY IN NINH HOA - VAN NINH
🗓️From March 16 to 18, 2026, the Center for Technology and Nature Conservation (CTNC) collaborated with the Ninh Hoa - Van Ninh Protection Forest Management Board to organize an intensive training course on the SMART tool (Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool). With the participation of more than 27 core staff, the course was not merely a professional development activity but also a foundational step in the roadmap to modernize forest management and protection in this region.
📱💻The focus of the training was mastering the SMART Desktop and SMART Mobile systems — pioneering toolsets for digitizing patrol data. Instead of manual recording, officers can now collect biodiversity information, monitor forest fluctuations, and record natural resource violations with precision and transparency directly from the field. This transition helps standardize the entire data system, providing a scientific basis for the Board's leadership to gain a comprehensive overview and make more timely and effective management decisions.
📍For CTNC, Ninh Hoa - Van Ninh is not just a regular conservation site but a key area in our long-term strategy. With the goal of developing a proposal to establish a future National Park covering up to 130,000 hectares, the application of SMART is an essential preparatory step. A standardized and transparent data system established today will serve as the most convincing evidence of the biodiversity value and management effectiveness of the area in the upcoming proposal dossier.
✨Every patrol and every data point recorded through SMART today represents the first "bricks" in building the future of the Ninh Hoa - Van Ninh National Park. We believe that with the support of technology and the dedication of our staff, the precious natural resources here will be protected sustainably for generations to come.
#CTNC #ConservationVision #NationalPark #SMART #BiodiversityMonitoring #NinhHoaVanNinh #NatureConservation #BaoTonThienNhien #VườnQuốcGia

[Center for Technology and Nature Conservation @ctnc2019]

🎋 RESTORING THE EA SO SPRING FESTIVAL: A CULTURAL GATHERING AND A CALL FOR WILDLIFE PROTECTION 🐵

🌳 Today, March 7th, 2026 – With the official approval of the Ea Knop People's Committee, CTNC collaborated with the Ea So Nature Reserve Management Board to host the "Call of the Ea So Spring" festival and Forest Protection Commitment Ceremony in Dak Lak. The event took place in a vibrant and heartwarming atmosphere, attracting over 500 local residents.

Historically, Ea Knop and Dak Lak have become home to many ethnic communities from Northern Vietnam, including the Thai, Muong, Tay, Mong, and Dao people. Over generations of settling in the Central Highlands, some traditional cultural practices had begun to fade. This festival marks the first time these activities have been revived for the community—offering a chance to reconnect with ancestral roots while reaffirming the deep bond between the local people and the majestic Central Highlands.

☀️ Morning Highlights:
The festival opened with a spectacular cultural program featuring performances from Giang Dong, Ea Puk, and Cu Ana San villages. Vibrant dances such as "Young Men and Women Celebrating Tet" and "Harvest Festival" showcased the rich heritage of Northern ethnic groups, beautifully blended with the spirit of the Central Highlands. Traditional activities like Khen flute dancing, top spinning, and Nem Con (shuttlecock throwing) filled the air with festive joy. Notably, CTNC integrated interactive wildlife and nature conservation Q&A sessions, helping both adults and children understand the vital importance of protecting our natural world.

🤝 Afternoon Energy:
The excitement peaked with traditional sports, including stick pushing and tug-of-war, featuring spirited teams from Ea Puk, Giang Dong, and the Ea So Nature Reserve. The most significant milestone was the Signing Ceremony of the Commitment to Protect Forests and Wildlife. Representatives from the Ea So Nature Reserve, Ea Kar Forest Protection Department, CTNC, and village leaders all took part. This ceremony didn't just emphasize local forest protection regulations (Huong uoc) but also highlighted the pivotal role of the community in wildlife conservation.

🌏 A Vision for the Future:
The revival of these cultural and sporting traditions in Spring 2026 carries a powerful message: Preserving cultural heritage goes hand-in-hand with the responsibility to protect wildlife. This serves as a solid foundation for the community to unite in safeguarding the Ea So ecosystem, ensuring a sustainable future for this land and generations to come.

#EaSô #DakLak #LeHoiMuaXuan2026 #BaoTonThienNhien #CTNC #VanHoaViet #BaoVeDongVatHoangDa #KhuBaoTonEaSo #KetNoiCongDong #PhucDungVanHoa

[Center for Technology and Nature Conservation @ctnc2019]

🌳🦦Celebrating World Wildlife Day 2026

Observed annually on 3 March, World Wildlife Day was proclaimed by the United Nations in 2013 to mark the anniversary of the signing of CITES in 1973. The day celebrates the rich diversity of wild animals and plants while raising awareness about the urgent need for conservation.

🐢The theme for 2026, “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods,” highlights the vital role that medicinal and aromatic plants play in healthcare systems, cultural traditions, and local economies. Many of these plant species are now at risk of extinction due to overharvesting, habitat loss, and climate change, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity protection.

Beyond plants, countless animal species are also endangered due to human activities. Pangolins are illegally trafficked for their scales and meat, big cats are exploited for traditional medicine, and habitat destruction driven by deforestation and industrial agriculture continues to threaten wildlife survival. Factory farming further contributes to climate change, intensifying pressure on ecosystems worldwide.

🐒 World Wildlife Day is also an opportunity to reflect on the welfare of captive animals. Many wild animals are taken from their natural habitats or bred in captivity and forced to perform in tourist attractions, amusement parks, or mobile zoos. Despite marketing claims of sustainability or ethical treatment, these animals often endure harsh training methods and unnatural living conditions for commercial gain.

1. Trachypithecus delacouri (CR)
2. Cuora picturata (CR)
3. Indotestudo Elongata (CR)
4. Paramesotriton deloustali (LC)

Photo by: CTNC
#CTNC #Wildlife #Biodiversity #Conservation #Communities #Awareness #NatureReserve #Technology #worldwildlifeday #worldwildlifeday2026

[Center for Technology and Nature Conservation @ctnc2019]

🌿 CTNC Hosts a Dialogue on Sharing Experiences in Applying Technology for Nature Conservation

On February 9, 2026, the Center for Technology and Nature Conservation (CTNC) organized a dialogue titled “Sharing Experiences in Applying Technology in Natural Resource Management and Biodiversity Conservation.” The event was held in a hybrid format, combining in-person and online participation, with 22 participants in total, including 16 online attendees and 6 participants joining in person at the CTNC office.

The dialogue brought together representatives from SVW, FFI, PanNature, and other organizations. During the event, participants delivered presentations and engaged in discussions focusing on the application of technology—particularly the SMART tool—in conservation management, patrol activities, and monitoring efforts.

Through presentations and interactive discussion and Q&A sessions, the dialogue provided valuable insights and practical experiences, contributing to strengthening connections and promoting collaboration among organizations in applying technology to enhance the effectiveness of biodiversity conservation in Viet Nam.

Contact us:
📞 +(84) 973 505 223
🌐 [email protected]
📍 Room 401, 12BT5 X2, North Linh Dam, Ha Noi City, Viet Nam
#CTNC #Wildlife #Biodiversity #Conservation #Communities #Awareness #NatureReserve #Technology

[Center for Technology and Nature Conservation @ctnc2019]

CTNC Office Welcomes Two Special Guests
🌿 CTNC recently welcomed Dr. Tilo Nadler and Ms. Hien Nadler during their visit to our office.
Dr. Tilo Nadler is a German conservationist who has dedicated more than three decades to wildlife conservation in Vietnam. He began working in Vietnam in the early 1990s with the Frankfurt Zoological Society and later founded the Endangered Primate Rescue Center (EPRC) at Cúc Phương National Park in 1993. Since then, he has played an important role in rescuing, rehabilitating, and protecting endangered primate species 🐒.
Mrs. Nguyen Thi Thu Hien Nadler, originally from Hanoi, has been closely involved in these conservation efforts from the beginning. As Tilo’s partner in both life and work, she has contributed to field research, primate rescue, and the long-term development of conservation activities.
The visit provided an opportunity for open discussion and experience sharing, as well as initial exchanges on potential cooperation in upcoming conservation projects. It marked a positive step toward building practical collaboration and strengthening long-term partnerships.
In the coming period, CTNC looks forward to working more closely with relevant partners in the fields of biodiversity and nature conservation.
Contact us:
📞 +(84) 973 505 223
🌐 [email protected]
📍Room 401, 12BT5 X2, North Linh Dam, Ha Noi city, Viet Nam
#CTNC #Wildlife #Biodiversity #Conservation #Communities #Awareness #Natureresreve #Technology

[Center for Technology and Nature Conservation @ctnc2019]

📷In the first month of 2026, CTNC held a wildlife conservation awareness program in the buffer zones of Ea Sô Nature Reserve, covering Buôn Xê Đăng, Buôn Ea Púk, Buôn Cưana Săn, Ea So 1 village - Ea Knốp commune, with around 130 local residents taking part. The activity focused on people living close to forest areas, who play a key role in protecting wildlife and natural resources.
📷During the sessions, participants learned how to recognize rare and endangered wildlife species found in Ea Sô Nature Reserve. The presentations also shared real cases where individuals had been penalized for illegal hunting, trading, or using wildlife and wildlife products, helping people better understand the law and the consequences of violations.
📷Group discussions were an important part of the program, creating an open and engaging space for residents to share their views, experiences, and concerns related to environmental and wildlife protection. Many participants actively contributed ideas and opinions, showing strong interest and responsibility toward conservation.
📷CTNC will continue working with local communities through communication and outreach activities to strengthen awareness and promote practical actions for wildlife and nature conservation in the coming time.
#CTNC #Wildlife #Biodiversity #Conservation #Communities #Awareness #Natureresreve #Technology #ĐộngVậtHoangDã #ĐaDạngSinhHọc #BảoTồn #CộngĐồng #NhậnThức #BảoTồnThiênNhiên #CôngNghệ #truyềnthông

[Center for Technology and Nature Conservation @ctnc2019]

🌿 The Eight Asian Heritage Park Conference
From December 3 to 5, the 8th ASEAN Heritage Parks Conference (AHP8) took place in Quang Ninh, gathering more than 300 participants from national parks, nature reserves, conservation agencies, and policy institutions across the region. The event aimed to strengthen cooperation in protected area management and support the implementation of the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

A key highlight this year was the participation of the Global Youth Biodiversity Network of Southeast Asia (GYBNSEA), featuring youth representatives from multiple ASEAN countries. Their presence underscored the essential role of young people in safeguarding natural heritage and advancing the region’s biodiversity commitments.

CTNC is honored to be part of this youth delegation, contributing to regional dialogue, knowledge sharing, and promoting youth-driven conservation efforts.

AHP8 stands as an important platform for collaboration and innovative solutions toward a greener and more sustainable ASEAN for present and future generations.
#CTNC #acb #youth #biodiversity #asean #CBD #COP16 #GYBN #gybnsea #communityfirst

[Center for Technology and Nature Conservation @ctnc2019]

📷 CTNC Congratulates Con Dao National Park on Achieving IUCN Green List Status! 📷
The Center for Technology and Nature Conservation (CTNC) sends our warmest congratulations to Con Dao National Park on its recent admission to the IUCN Green List - one of the most rigorous international standards for effective conservation management. 📷
This is the 3rd protected area in Vietnam to achieve this title, affirming the persistent efforts of the Park's staff in preserving forest and marine ecosystems, protecting endangered species, and promoting sustainable livelihoods for the community.
What is the IUCN Green List? The Green List is an international certification for protected areas that meet standards in: • Transparent and effective governance • Successful biodiversity conservation • Evidence-based management • Commitment to sustainable development with the community
Con Dao's inscription serves as a great inspiration for the nature conservation movement in Vietnam and stands as a testament to the value of modern, science-based, and multi-stakeholder conservation approaches.
CTNC believes that Con Dao's success will continue to spread, contributing to enhancing the quality of protected area management in Vietnam.
Congratulations to Con Dao National Park!
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#CTNC #IUCNGreenList #ConDaoNationalPark #Conservation #Biodiversity #SustainableDevelopment #DanhLụcXanh #VườnQuốcGiaCônĐảo #BảoTồn #ĐaDạngSinhHọc #PhátTriểnBềnVững

[Center for Technology and Nature Conservation @ctnc2019]

🌳🦎The Cat Ba Leopard Gecko (Goniurosaurus catbaensis) is an endemic reptile species of Vietnam, restricted to Cat Ba Archipelago (Hai Phong) and a few small islands in Ha Long Bay (Quang Ninh), occurring at elevations from 4 to 132 meters. It inhabits evergreen limestone forests with medium-sized trees and dense understory vegetation, preferring areas with canopy cover above 50%. The species is nocturnal, solitary, and typically found clinging to limestone cliffs, often far from water sources. Its breeding season lasts from April to August, with each clutch consisting of two eggs. Its diet includes beetles (Coleoptera) and small insects. Although the overall population trend remains unclear, the species is likely declining due to human impacts and its naturally small, isolated distribution. G. catbaensis is classified as Endangered (EN) in the Vietnam Red Data Book (2024), as well as the IUCN REDLIST. The presence of only two known locations, and by ongoing habitat degradation from limestone quarrying, logging, forest conversion, road construction, and tourism pressures. Additionally, trapping and illegal trade—sold as pets for up to 500,000 VND locally and around 200 USD internationally—pose direct threats to wild populations.
Photo by: Vinh Nguyen
#CTNC #Biodiversity #Nature #Conservation #wildlifephotography #conservation #reptile #catba

[Center for Technology and Nature Conservation @ctnc2019]

On November 14th, the Center for Technology and Nature Conservation (CTNC) participated in the “Presentation of the Final Project Proposal for the 2025–2027 Strategy” workshop organized by Conservation Vietnam (CV), with the attendance of numerous conservation experts and domestic organizations. CTNC Director, Mr. Phung Ngoc Khanh, delivered a presentation on the proposed project titled “Protection of the Southern Yellow-cheeked Gibbon and Associated Species”, located in the Tay Hoa Protection Forest, Dak Lak Province. The project aims to reduce hunting and trapping, monitor gibbon populations, and build a comprehensive wildlife database. In the long term, its results are expected to contribute to the establishment of Vietnam’s largest national park, ensuring sustainable biodiversity conservation in the region. CTNC is grateful to Conservation Vietnam for the opportunity to share its proposal, engage in meaningful discussions with the Advisory Board and CV management, learn from other conservation organizations, and foster future collaboration toward establishing an Alliance of Conservation Organizations. The open, professional, and inspiring environment of the event has further empowered CTNC’s commitment to protecting nature through scientific and technological approaches.
Once again, we would like to thank to the Conservation Vietnam Foundation and all delegates for their valuable feedback, discussions, and insights on CTNC’s proposal.
Photo by: Conservation Vietnam
#CTNC #ConservationVietnam #Wildlife #Conservation #Biodiversity #Sustainable #Ecosystem

[Center for Technology and Nature Conservation @ctnc2019]

CTNC proudly participated in the ACT Conference 2025 in Hanoi, taking place from November 3–7. This landmark global conservation technology forum is co-organized by SMART, EarthRanger, Save Vietnam’s Wildlife (SVW) and Vietnam’s Department of Forestry and Forest Protection Department, gathering more than 458 delegates from 77 countries and 252 organizations. The conference highlights the growing importance of conservation technology, ranger and protected-area management, and data-driven solutions in safeguarding biodiversity. Key discussions focused on real-world applications of platforms such as SMART and EarthRanger to strengthen law enforcement and biodiversity monitoring, reduce human–wildlife conflict, enhance protected-area governance, improve community livelihoods, and accelerate long-term conservation impacts. CTNC is honored to be part of this global community of conservation leaders — learning, sharing, and contributing to innovative approaches that help advance nature protection in Vietnam and beyond. 🌿🌏💻
#CTNC #biodiervsity #wildlife #conservation #technology #collaboration #ACTCon2025