At the discussion panel under the theme “Investing in Lower Carbon Cities and Urban Development”, enCity’s Deputy CEO Trang Vuong, together with other experts in the field of design, investment, and policy exchanged insights on creating smart, livable cities through lower carbon development pathways.
Trang started the discussion by addressing the fundamental question of low-carbon urban development. It is a development model that reduces greenhouse gas emissions across all aspects of urban living: electricity generation, heating systems, transportation – especially road transport, industrial, and then commercial and residential activities. Though smaller in scale in many cities, agriculture and forestry also play a role. This extensive list underscores the need for strategic, integrated planning that brings together multiple disciplines. Such an approach is essential for creating lower-carbon cities that simultaneously enhance the quality of life for residents.
Cities also have to consider the trade-offs which are short-term versus long-term benefits. Manifestations are evident in large cities where growth has intensified. Amidst such density, funding, and processes for land clearance or procurement, alongside megaprojects like the metro, necessitate compromise. This is a lesson learned for other major cities on the importance of preparing land, infrastructure, and systematic planning to meet future needs and protect future opportunities.
Photo source: Vietcetera
To answer the question regarding lower-carbon development in HCMC’s masterplan, Trang detailed the multi-faceted approach required for achieving such a goal:
- First, transportation is key. The plan involves effectively utilizing land and resources to build and operate a public transit system based on the TOD model, with a goal of 50% ridership by 2050. The plan also encourages multimodal transport, developing metro stations into green transport hubs with electric cars and bikes. Additionally, the plan includes restrictions on personal motorized vehicles in central areas, such as geographically-based toll collection and parking space at a rate of only 50-70% following national standards. The city will also prioritize pedestrian and cycling routes, taking advantage of green corridors and incorporating bicycle-sharing stations near major public transportation hubs. ICT will be applied to manage the transportation system’s operations
- Second, Trang addressed electricity. Renewable energy within the city is challenging due to land limitations. However, other solutions exist to lower carbon emissions. This includes a transmission system connecting to the renewable energy hub toward the North of the city (Tay Ninh) and developing offshore wind power toward the South of the city (Can Gio). The plan also encourages further research and application of waste-to-energy and other technologies to recycle waste.
- Third, Trang discussed industrial, commercial, and residential activities. Industrial land within the second ring road will be transformed into higher-value industries, hi-tech parks, and business parks, while conventional manufacturing will move to the outskirts. Alongside this shift, the city’s spatial and land-use plan will embrace TOD principles and the 15 to 20-minute city concept.
Other notable experts in the field, who were panelists, also shared insights on the regulations, policies, standards, and financial aspects of low-carbon urban development investment. The discussions also touched upon how to make low-carbon solutions more affordable, widespread, and accessible to the majority.
With a multidisciplinary team of experts and offices in three countries, Singapore, Vietnam, and Indonesia, enCity is looking forward to collaborating with investors, leaders, and innovators. Together, we aim to spark meaningful partnerships and accelerate green and inclusive growth.
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