45 species recognised as heritage trees                                    More than 600 trees of 45 species in 35 cities and provinces nationwide have been recognised as Vietnam ’s heritage trees.    225-year-old banyan tree The statistics were released by the Vietnam Association for Conservation of Nature and Environment at its sixth congress in Hanoi on November 28.  The recognition was part of the campaign “Preserving Vietnam’s heritage trees” hosted by association, delegates heard while reviewing its major events during the 2008-2013 term.  The association paid attention to planning for biodiversity preservation in national parks, sanctuaries and the Truong Son mountain range, and environmental protection in some cities and provinces.  Setting the agenda for its 2013–2018 term, they agreed to improve the association’s consultancy skills, and social analysis of environmental impacts and sustainable development, so as to partly better protect the environment.  It will also expand external relations both at home and abroad, with a focus on its strategic ties with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and the Vietnam Union of Science-Technology Associations while strengthening coordination with the local Departments of Natural Resources and Environment and international partners.  Workshops on global climate change and Vietnam ’s response were also held in 2008, 2010, 2011 and 2013.- VNA