Thủ Thiêm urban planning: international green urban standard

The Detailed Planning at a Scale of 1/2000 for the Thủ Thiêm Urban Area not only represents one of the most comprehensive planning schemes to date but is also regarded as a prime exemplar of green urban planning. Within the Thủ Thiêm plan, 24% of the area is designated for transportation infrastructure, while notably, 42% of the remaining space is allocated to ecosystems and water bodies. This creates an urban living environment that harmoniously integrates human activities with nature. Let's explore how Thủ Thiêm has been planned as a step towards green urbanism in the following article!

Thủ Thiêm Detailed Planning: Green Spaces and Ecosystems


The Thủ Thiêm urban planning aims to regulate the city's air quality, with green areas covering up to 128 hectares (Source: Dân Trí Newspaper).

According to the detailed planning scheme of the new Thủ Thiêm Urban Area, the land is divided into 8 functional zones. Among these, 7 zones will be developed into urban areas from functional zone 1 to 7. Conversely, functional zone 8 is planned as a special ecological forest area in the southern landmass, comprising natural wetland areas that passively receive water from upstream and tidal waters from the sea, creating a unique ecological space and effective environmental protection.


The Thủ Thiêm planning dedicates a substantial land area to establish a unique ecological forest area with wetlands, creating a green focal point within the new urban area (Source: Internet).

Ecological Forest Zone: 'Green Core' in the Green Urban Area

According to the 1/2000 detailed planning, this vast 128-hectare area is designated as an ecological forest area, situated in the southern landmass. Its primary role is to ensure environmental protection and water management while providing opportunities for recreational activities, relaxation, and maintaining the balance of natural ecosystems.

Located in the city center, most of this area is dedicated to wetland ecosystems, with only three plots designated for developing resort hotels, water parks, and botanical research institutes. The construction projects on these three plots are not only large-scale but also designed with architecture that harmonizes with nature, featuring low building densities to optimize overall landscape preservation.


The ecological forest zone at Thủ Thiêm is not only an important ecological site but also a unique masterpiece in the city center (Source: Internet).

The majority of this area is covered with reeds and various natural vegetation, interspersed with a network of waterways created through dredging and excavation from existing river channels.

During the high tide from the Saigon River into the canal system and the mangrove forest in the flooded area, water is naturally filtered and channeled into the waterway system, creating a natural and efficient process for maintaining the area's diverse ecosystems.
There have been encouraging signs indicating that native plants and animals are thriving in this area. Alongside the stringent management by the Thủ Thiêm Urban Area Management Board, District 2 People's Committee, and An Lợi Đông Ward, the ecological forest area is actively protected and nurtured. This not only enhances environmental diversity but also creates a sustainable, beautiful green space, becoming a new source of pride for the city.

Conclusion: Towards Green Urbanism and Sustainable Development

It can be said that the Thủ Thiêm Planning represents not only a crucial turning point in urban development but also plays a vital role as the city's green lung. With a mindset of green urban and positive support from financial institutions, Thủ Thiêm Urban Area promises to be an ideal place for both residents and businesses. The thoughtful combination of economic development and environmental protection creates an ideal living environment and the potential to become the most livable urban area in Ho Chi Minh City.