Balancing Environmental, Social, and Economic Dimensions: Marginalization of Katuic’s Ethnic Minorities in Vietnam and the Adaptive Circular Economy
摘要
Establishing a circular economy is crucial for sustainable development and has gained global government attention. The circular economy in Vietnam is being implemented in various sectors, particularly high-tech development areas. However, remote areas require a different approach due to their need for more scientific and technological frameworks. In Central Vietnam, where the Katuic language group, comprising the Katu, Bru-Van Kieu, and Taoih ethnic minorities, resides, a “natural circular economy” production method has been prevalent for a long time. This method is comprised of traditional “slash and burn” agriculture (shifting cultivation), but the impact of industrialization, modernization, and urbanization in Vietnam after Doi Moi has led to the marginalization of the Katuic people. Currently, the marginalization of the Katuic people is increasing due to the profound impact of a lack of resources on the development process. Moreover, they are influenced by the rapid development of national renewable energy policy, such as wind turbines and hydroelectric dams surrounding their habitat. Many communities must move to the new government resettlements without forest, river, or rice fields. A balanced solution addressing environmental, social, economic, and cultural aspects is essential to enhance their quality of life and establish a sustainable future. This research examines the impact of the development process in Vietnam and the marginalization of the Katuic group and proposes a specific development solution called the “Adaptive Circular Economy.” The latter approach, which addresses natural and human factors, is situated in household micro-economic cells.