Design and evaluation of an integrated agricultural model toward zero emissions applied to a concentrated fruit farming system in An Giang province

Abstract

   Agricultural waste pollution at fruit tree farms combined with livestock raising has become a serious issue in many areas of the Mekong Delta, particularly in An Giang province. This study was conducted to design and evaluate an integrated low-emission agricultural model for a 2.5-hectare jackfruit farm combined with goat rearing in Vinh Phu commune, Thoai Son district. The research methods included household surveys, environmental sampling (soil and water), application of SWOT and DPSIR frameworks, and pilot implementation of a closed-loop system integrating bio-litter bedding, composting, biochar production, ecological pond treatment. The preliminary results suggest that the model can reduce BOD₅ by 75% and NH₄⁺ by over 80% in wastewater, enhance soil fertility, and lower chemical fertilizer and energy costs by approximately 50%, with an estimated payback period of three years and an internal rate of return (IRR) of around 20%. The model also demonstrates flexibility in integrating simple ecological technologies suitable for household-scale farms, contributing to both environmental protection and production efficiency. Based on these findings, the research team recommends scaling up the model for similar farms in the Mekong Delta, with combined support in technology and policy, and further studies on the long-term effects of biochar, advanced wastewater treatment, and the integration of renewable energy into circular agricultural systems.