Vietnam and Denmark exchange expertise on green urban transformation

On November 28, the Danish Embassy in Vietnam and Ashui Co., Ltd,. an architecture, sustainability, housing, urbanism, and Interior company, co-hosted the seminar “Dialogue on Greener Together – Urban Green Transition – From Denmark to Vietnam” at Hanoi’s Temple of Literature.

This event brought together Vietnamese and Danish architects and experts to exchange knowledge on green urban transformation, setting a direction for collaboration among individuals, businesses, experts, and government agencies to accelerate the green transition.

According to Vietnam’s year-long Urban and Rural System Planning, the nation’s urbanisation rate is expected to surpass 50 per cent by 2030. As the world pivots towards a greener future, cities play a pivotal role in developing innovative solutions to tackle climate change. Green urban transformation is no longer just a trend but a necessity for creating liveable, resilient, and sustainable urban environments for future generations.

Mette Ekeroth, deputy head of Mission of the Danish Embassy in Vietnam said, “Vietnam and Denmark share a strong commitment to sustainable development under the Green Strategic Partnership framework. We are honoured to be a long-term friend and trusted partner of Vietnam in its impressive socioeconomic development journey. The focus now must be on transitioning to a greener, more sustainable development model. Economic security must go hand in hand with social and environmental security. Today's seminar on green urban transformation aims to ensure people can sustainably and prosperously thrive in the cities of the future.”

The Ministry of Construction estimates that Vietnamese cities add 1 to 1.3 million residents annually. The urbanisation rate surged from 30.5 per cent in 2010 to 42.6 per cent in 2023, with projections indicating even higher growth in the coming years. However, rapid urbanisation has also highlighted challenges such as unplanned development, fragmented infrastructure, and a lack of systematic vision for green urban models.

The adverse effects of rapid urbanisation, including air pollution, traffic congestion, waste management issues, and climate change vulnerabilities, underscore the urgent need for Vietnam to transition towards sustainable green urban development.

Henriette Vamberg, managing director of Gehl Architects in Denmark, expressed enthusiasm for addressing Vietnam’s challenges, “For over two decades, Gehl has worked with cities worldwide to tackle pressing issues caused by outdated transportation models. Our solutions are both bold on a large scale and strategically specific. There are many approaches to green urban transformation, and I look forward to sharing some of these experiences with Vietnam.”

During the event, leading Danish architects and domestic organisations presented strategies and practical solutions for integrating green infrastructure and sustainable practices into urban planning. They also showcased successful examples of green, sustainable urban projects worldwide that Vietnam could adapt.

As part of the seminar, the Danish Embassy in Vietnam exhibited images showcasing Denmark’s green solutions in energy, water management, circular economy, and sustainable, liveable cities. The exhibition at The Temple of Literature will remain open to the public from November 28 to December 2.

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