Hanoi Forum explores innovative solutions for sustainable urban development

The city boasts a young, vibrant and creative workforce that is ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges of an era of globalization. However, rapid development has brought significant challenges, including high population density, overburdened health and education systems, and problems such as air and water pollution and traffic congestion, said Ha Minh Hai, Deputy Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee at a conference in Hanoi on December 12.

Hai was speaking at the forum titled "Sustainable Green Urban Development" hosted by the Economic & Urban Newspaper, which aims to seek practical initiatives for green and sustainable urban growth in Hanoi and across the country, with the participation of local policymakers, experts, and businesses.

He emphasized the importance of the "Sustainable Green Urban Development" event, saying: "The city hopes and believes that this forum will bring forth breakthrough ideas and innovative solutions, as well as valuable practical experiences that will contribute to shaping a green and sustainable urban future through the cooperation of all stakeholders."

"This forum aims to unite efforts to transform Hanoi into a cultured, modern and green city that embodies the values of service, contribution, trust and happiness - a place worth visiting and living in," Hai added.

According to the deputy chairman, Hanoi, as the heart of the nation and a special urban center, plays a crucial role in culture, education, science, technology, economy and international integration. As one of the largest capitals in the world by area, the city is also an attractive destination for investors and international tourists.

Ha Minh Hai, Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee, speaks at the event.

Long-term strategy for balanced growth

The Political Bureau’s Resolution 15-NQ/TW outlines a vision for Hanoi to become a smart, modern, green, clean, beautiful, safe and secure city. The goal is to achieve rapid and sustainable development that benefits the Red River Delta and the northern economic region, while effectively tackling environmental protection and improving air quality, tackling water pollution in rivers and lakes, and improving urban infrastructure, the deputy mayor said.

The city has translated strategic visions into two plans and the amended Capital Law, incorporating key concepts such as "green," "digital," "smart," and "sustainable" into the National Green Growth Strategy 2021-2030 and the Action Plan for National Green Growth. Hanoi is also developing standards and technical norms that match its vision of a cultured, civilized, modern, green and smart capital that is globally connected, he said.

Nguyen Thanh Loi, Editor-in-Chief of the Economic & Urban Newspaper, highlighted the importance of collaboration among stakeholders, including government, businesses, and communities, as the key to driving this transformation.

Loi said that the forum aims to inspire new initiatives and foster meaningful partnerships, ultimately creating a robust and sustainable development roadmap for urban areas that prioritizes enhancing quality of life while protecting the environment and preserving local cultural values.

Loi underlined the need for sustainable development from both an economic and ethical perspective. "Sustainable green urban development aims to create a healthy living environment for residents and contributes to the global fight for a cleaner and greener future," he said.

He referred to a recent meeting with the Hanoi Party Committee where To Lam, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, addressed critical issues such as pollution and traffic congestion. The immediate focus is on tackling water pollution, particularly in the historically significant To Lich River. The rapid pace of urbanization brings both economic benefits and significant environmental, social and cultural challenges, he said.

"Vietnam's thousand-year-old capital faces numerous opportunities and challenges amid rapid urbanization. With an ever-growing population and thriving economic activities, environmental concerns have become a top priority for the city. Hanoi is striving for comprehensive and sustainable green urban development, which includes not only more green spaces, but also sustainable architecture, green transportation, and efficient energy management," said Loi.

In the face of global challenges such as climate change, pollution, and resource depletion, sustainable development has become an essential guiding principle. Mindful of this need, Hanoi's leaders are formulating long-term strategies to improve the quality of life for residents without compromising resources for future generations, according to the editor-in-chief.

"A key focus of green urban development is to prioritize public space planning and greenery. An urgent task ahead is to clean up the historically and culturally significant To Lich River," he said.

Nguyen Thanh Loi, Editor-in-Chief of the Economic & Urban Newspaper, delivers a speech at the forum. Photos: Pham Hung/The Hanoi Times

In recent years, Loi said Hanoi has built and renovated many parks and green spaces to increase greenery, improve air quality, and regulate climate. Public transportation systems are being upgraded, with a focus on developing bus rapid transit (BRT), elevated railways, and encouraging the use of environmentally friendly transportation options.

Hanoi is pursuing projects to develop ecological urban areas and apply smart technologies. Green buildings using renewable energy and energy-saving technologies are becoming increasingly popular in urban planning.

"Community participation is essential for sustainable green urban development. Authorities and social organizations are actively raising awareness and encouraging public engagement," Loi added. "With continued efforts, perseverance and cooperation across the city, we believe that Hanoi will continue to progress on its journey towards green urban development and become a model for cities nationwide," Loi said.

An overview of the event

According to Deputy Chairman Hai, Hanoi aims to become a model of green, smart urban development that reflects its rich cultural heritage. Key initiatives focus on the development of green spaces, including public areas, underground and aboveground environments, and digital landscapes. All projects will emphasize green criteria to improve community connectivity and create a healthier living environment.

Another important aspect is the effective implementation of the Capital Law, which promotes transparent governance, intelligent management, and clear communication. This requires synchronized regulations to ensure successful planning and compliance with established standards, he said.

While leveraging advanced digital technologies, the city is also focusing on green transformation, digital transition, and circular economy practices.

Smart urban development is critical to enhancing quality of life by tapping into technologies such as IoT, AI, big data, and blockchain. These innovations aim to improve urban management in areas such as transportation, energy, and public services, ultimately reducing congestion, conserving resources, and increasing the use of renewable energy,

Investment in public transport systems, including metro networks and bus rapid transit, is essential, as is the promotion of clean transport options. Future research will also establish criteria for the development of low-emission zones.

Raising public awareness is essential to protecting the environment and promoting sustainable lifestyles.

Finally, strengthening international partnerships will provide access to valuable experience and advanced technologies from leading green cities around the world. Such cooperation is expected to attract investment, particularly from green growth and sustainable development funds, while facilitating the transfer of advanced technologies, the deputy mayor concluded.