Local capacity for implementing payments for environmental services schemes: lessons from the RUPES project in northeastern Viet Nam

Enabling local stakeholders to implement a Payment for Environmental Services (PES) scheme
requires a critical understanding of their knowledge, interests and expectations of landscape functions.
Bac Kan was among the first provinces in Viet Nam to pilot a Payments for Forest Environmental
Services scheme, in 2012, after two years of technical assistance and training of local stakeholders.
Stakeholders’ knowledge and skills were found to be highest instantly after the training but quickly
dissipated when not used or if not immediately followed by further training. The perceived
complexity of PES and low understanding of buyers of environmental services and financial
management demotivated stakeholders but they still aspired to implement PES schemes because the
schemes were perceived to support livelihoods and enhance forest protection. Concerns are raised that
local capacity for implementation is not highlighted in policies and guidelines. A comprehensive
capacity-development program is required, including progressive training.