Agriculture is at the core of daily life in Bình Thuận, and for many families, it remains their main source of income. To help farmers improve productivity and sustainability, Thien Chi promotes several agricultural models that combine traditional methods with modern, eco-friendly techniques. I have already explained 3 of them in a previous post (https://thienchicenter.org/article/agricultural-models-for-a-more-sustainable-future-21175.html), and I will continue here with another 3.
Here are three examples of models currently supported by the Center:
1. The Net Garden Model
This model helps families grow vegetables year-round using a large protective net that covers the entire garden. The net shields crops from insects and heavy rain, reducing plant damage and eliminating the need for pesticides. As a result, this protects farmers’ health and benefits the environment.
The net must be replaced every three years and costs about 10 million VND, with Thien Chi contributing 3 million. Currently, five families benefit from this model.
A typical household cultivates around 200 m² of vegetables, harvesting every 20 days and allowing 15 days of rest between cycles. Because the vegetables are pesticide-free, they sell well at the same market price as conventional produce. Families harvest late at night to keep vegetables fresh and head to the market at 2 a.m. to sell them.
During the rainy season, this system is particularly valuable, without the net, farmers could only cultivate around 8–10 months a year instead of continuously.
2. The Biological Bedding Model
Used in poultry farming, this model creates a cleaner, more sustainable environment for raising chickens. It consists of a thick layer of rice husk mixed with probiotics that covers the floor of the chicken coop.
This 10 cm layer helps prevent bad smells and bacterial infections, keeps chickens healthier, and speeds up their growth. It also saves farmers time and money since they no longer need to clean the coop daily with water. After the chickens are sold, the used bedding can be recycled as fertilizer for crops.
Thien Chi provides probiotics, materials, vaccines, and even chicken health support when needed. The model has helped families nearly double their monthly profits in recent years. It also serves as a practical learning tool, with Thien Chi organizing visits for other farmers to observe the model in action.
3. The Biogas Model
This model transforms pig waste into renewable energy used for cooking or other. Pig manure is collected through a channel connected to a covered tank where it naturally decomposes, producing methane gas. The gas is then stored in a smaller plastic container and used as daily fuel.
This system reduces unpleasant odors, improves hygiene, and lowers the risk of disease among pigs. It also saves money by replacing firewood and helps protect the environment by reducing deforestation.
The total installation cost is about 12 million VND. Thien Chi supports each family with a contribution of 3 million VND, and the program is currently backed by HSBC Bank. So far, seven families benefit from this model, with four more interested in joining.
You can find a more detailed video explanation of this model on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iExMnyYrO1g
Leticia