The proposed integrated model for rural people of alum in the Mekong delta

Abstract

This study is to design an integrated eco-agricultural system for waste treatment in the acidic soil areas in the Mekong Delta. The system is based on recycling all of the materials (from the inputs, outputs, and wastes) under conditions of acidic soil towards zero emissions and maintaining sustainability for farmers' livelihood. The system is demonstrated at Vo Van Tham's farm in Thanh An Commune, Thanh Hoa District, Long An Province. The cost investment is 80,000,000 VND, and the cost is 60,000,000 VND for operating per year. The results show that the proposed system has benefits for the environment, for example wastewater is collected and treated at is178 m3/day, reduce the emission of 756 tons CO2t/year. 50% the amount of pig manure (about 3 tons/day) is separated from pig shed discharges entering the biogas system. It also helps to increase household income (the expected income is about 160,000,000 VND/year, and the payback period is less than 1 year). In addition, solutions are used for alleviating soil acidity level, increase soil pH, and reducing aluminum toxicity in the area. This can help utilize difficult conditions of the acidic soil. Therefore, the proposed system can be applied widely for surrounding areas with similar livelihood activities, and natural conditions.