Unesco recognizes Cat Ba Island’s bid to become world’ natural heritage

A meeting has been held between Mr. Dan Duc Hiep, Permanent Vice Chairman of Hai Phong Peoplenesco ’s Committee and Mr. Richard Engelhardt, Regional Adviser for Culture in Asia and Pacific to discuss Cat Ba Island’s candidacy for world’s natural heritage. Mr. Engelhardt hailed the multiple terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems as well as the diverse plant and animal life on this island.

In order to realize Cat Ba’s hope of being recognized as world heritage, Mr. Engelhardt recommended that Cat Ba should present 39 rare species, establish core area and buffer zone where these species live. The aquaculture should be moved out of the core area, which is not subject to any human activity, except for research and monitoring. He also remarked that Cat Ba shares some similarities with Langkawi Island in Malaysia in terms of langur population, one of the most endangered primates in the world. Extensive research should be made on their eating habit, said Mr. Engelhardt.

Other UNESCO experts also acknowledge that Cat Ba National Park is home to an unbelievable number of species and should be expanded to Long Chau Islands, 15km south east of Cat Ba Island for the benefit of conservation purpose. It is high time to raise levels of environmental awareness and education on Cat Ba Island and create a connection between the locals and the natural environment.

The first profile application is scheduled to be submitted on 30 September 2012 and official profile on 1 February 2013.

Cat Ba is the largest island in Ha Long Bay and has a wide variety of natural ecosystems, both marine and terrestrial, leading to incredibly high rates of biodiversity. The local authorities have recognized biodiversity as Cat Ba’s forte and taken efforts to make Cat Ba s tourist hub.