“GREEN” ACHIEVEMENTS OF 5 YEARS OF COLLABORATION BETWEEN GREENVIET AND SIX SENSES NINH VAN BAY

In October 2024, Six Senses Ninh Van Bay Resort proudly received the prestigious **“Climate Action & Biodiversity”** award at the “HICAP Sustainable Hotel Awards 2024”. This recognition highlights the resort’s sustainability efforts, particularly its partnership with GreenViet in conserving the Black-shanked Douc Langur and promoting biodiversity within the area.

Hòn Hèo Peninsula, covering over 160 km² with three sides surrounded by the sea and one side connected to a narrow strip of mainland, is known for its rich biodiversity, hosting many rare species of flora and fauna. Over the five years of collaboration (2019–2024), GreenViet and Six Senses Ninh Van Bay conducted surveys and recorded over 300 species of plants and animals within the resort’s territory. Among these, 7 animal species and 10 plant species are listed in the **Vietnam Red Data Book (2007)** and the **IUCN Red List**.

Notably, the population of the Black-shanked Douc Langur—an emblem of the region—has increased from 109 to 194 individuals over the past five years. Additionally, GreenViet captured images of the **Silver-backed Chevrotain** through camera traps, a species endemic to Vietnam that had been missing from scientific research for nearly 30 years. Other rare animals such as the **Javan Pangolin**, **Pygmy Slow Loris**, and **Leopard Cat** have also been documented, reflecting the rich wildlife diversity in the region.

Beyond research, the collaboration has included activities like **“Langur Talks,”** sharing conservation stories about the Black-shanked Douc Langur. Visitors have had the chance to participate in guided forest walks, observe langurs, and learn about local flora and fauna from GreenViet experts.

In 2022, Six Senses Ninh Van Bay made a remarkable discovery—a new turmeric species named **Curcuma sixsensesensis**. This ginger family plant blooms in August and September, boasting unique beauty and significant scientific value. Due to habitat threats, scientists are proposing that this species be listed as globally endangered on the IUCN Red List.

Another noteworthy achievement of this partnership is the recognition of a cluster of nine **Cycas pectinata Buch.-Ham.** trees, each aged between 100 and 200 years, as **Vietnam Heritage Trees**.

Mr. Trần Hữu Vỹ, Director of GreenViet, remarked: “The relationship between GreenViet and Six Senses Ninh Van Bay is a successful example of collaboration between conservation organizations and businesses. Balancing economic development and nature conservation clearly demonstrates the scalability of this model across Vietnam, fostering harmonious and sustainable growth”.

In addition to research efforts, over the past two years, GreenViet has partnered with Six Senses Ninh Van Bay to conduct awareness campaigns. These initiatives have provided over 200 students and hundreds of resort guests with knowledge about biodiversity, the Black-shanked Douc Langur, and local wildlife.