Open vision: The key to Cat Ba’s development

What roadmap should Cat Ba follow to become a fully green island?

Cat Ba has all the essential attributes for ecotourism.

To advance towards carbon-neutral tourism, the island must promote electric and green hydrogen-powered transportation for goods and passengers on roads, waterways, and potentially air travel.

Globally, many ships have already transitioned to green hydrogen.

International maritime organizations are designating low-emission zones, requiring ships to use electric or hydrogen-powered systems in green ports.

This sets a clear direction for Cat Ba to modernize its port infrastructure, transitioning to support green tourism through eco-friendly ships, helicopters, and road transportation systems.

The Cat Ba-Ha Long Bay maritime region meets the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) standards for a Particularly Sensitive Sea Area (PSSA).

If designated, it would become Vietnam’s first PSSA and join 18 other recognized PSSA regions globally, reinforcing its position as a hub for sustainable maritime and ecotourism.

In the immediate term, Hai Phong authorities should encourage residents to switch to electric vehicles.

This transition requires developing infrastructure such as charging stations, renewable energy sources on land, and eventually offshore refueling points.

Tourism infrastructure must also adopt renewable energy technologies with a long-term vision of 10–20 years.

How can Cat Ba further capitalize on its strengths to boost development?

The waters surrounding Cat Ba boast superior quality compared to northern coastal areas, with higher salinity and a vibrant blue hue akin to Da Nang, Nha Trang, or Phu Quoc.

The island’s isolation and moderate distance from the mainland offer privacy, a major draw for tourists.

However, current public beaches are small and often overcrowded.

Expanding larger beaches to accommodate growing tourist numbers and providing water sports facilities could significantly enhance its appeal.

Given its limited land resources, Cat Ba should explore expanding its development space into the sea in permissible areas, such as near the central bay and fishing ports, which are outside the protected core zones of Cat Ba National Park and the Lan Ha Bay Marine Reserve.

Additionally, Cat Ba must invest in new tourism infrastructure, such as entertainment facilities, to attract luxury vacationers.

With strategic planning, Cat Ba could emerge as a destination for international cruise ships and yachts.

Cat Ba as a green model

What steps are needed for Cat Ba to become a world-class green island?

Achieving a green, eco-friendly island requires a transition across various sectors, including green energy adoption, eco-friendly economic projects, and sustainable transport systems.

Carbon reduction must be a central focus.

Shifting road transportation to zero-emission options like cable cars, electric buses, and bicycles demands the commitment of local authorities, businesses, and residents.

Tourists must also align with environmentally responsible travel criteria.

Realizing the vision of a carbon-neutral island involves a synchronized electric public transport system with charging stations and stops for convenience.

Cat Ba’s modest population makes it an ideal pilot location for renewable energy and green tourism initiatives, serving as a model for other regions.

Socialization of investment is key, involving strategic investors and global green energy funds seeking testbeds for their renewable energy projects.

What role does the Cat Ba Central Bay tourism and trade project play in this strategy?

The Cat Ba Central Bay project exemplifies sustainable tourism, integrating advanced waste and wastewater management systems, expansive artificial beaches, and green public spaces with modern tourism and commercial facilities.

When operational, it will address current tourism gaps while providing a model for sustainable development.

This project emphasizes eco-friendly energy use and prioritizes environmental preservation while enhancing the local community's quality of life.

Developed by Sun Group, a key strategic investor, the project is expected to set a benchmark for future initiatives.

Sun Group’s successful developments in Da Nang, Phu Quoc, Quang Ninh, and Sapa illustrate its ability to create iconic, sustainable tourism landmarks.

Their projects in Hai Phong and Cat Ba promise to meet stringent ecological standards and elevate the island’s appeal as a leading green destination.

Anh Duong