Con Dao National Park, located in Ho Chi Minh City, has earned a prestigious spot on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Green List. This recognition celebrates protected areas excelling in effective, transparent, and sustainable management, as reported by Vietnam News.
As the 101st global addition and Vietnam’s third inductee, following Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve and Cat Tien National Park, Con Dao’s achievement underscores its commitment to conservation. The IUCN Green List goes beyond mere recognition; it’s a rigorous assessment of management practices against international standards of effectiveness, transparency, and equity. Con Dao’s inclusion followed a thorough evaluation involving independent experts, conservation groups, and local community representatives.

In 2009, Con Dao set a national record for the “Most Hatchlings Released into the Sea,” solidifying its role as a pioneer in marine turtle conservation. It was also the first Vietnamese site to join the Indian Ocean-Southeast Asia (IOSEA) marine turtle conservation network, further cementing its global conservation impact.