Role of Urban Planning in Reducing Urban Heat Island Effects in Vietnam

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the role of urban planning in reducing urban heat island effects in Vietnam. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Urban planning plays a crucial role in mitigating the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect, a phenomenon where urban areas experience significantly higher temperatures than their rural surroundings due to human activities. Effective urban planning strategies, such as increasing green spaces, implementing green roofs, and promoting urban forestry, can substantially reduce UHI effects. Green spaces like parks and urban gardens enhance evapotranspiration, which cools the air, while green roofs and walls provide insulation and absorb heat. Additionally, urban forestry, through the strategic planting of trees along streets and in public areas, offers shade and reduces surface and air temperatures. Urban planners also advocate for the use of reflective building materials and cool roofs, which reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat. Integrating water bodies, such as ponds and fountains, into urban landscapes further helps in cooling through evaporation. Moreover, designing buildings and infrastructure to improve natural ventilation can enhance airflow and reduce heat accumulation. These measures, when combined, create a more resilient urban environment that is better equipped to handle the challenges posed by rising temperatures and climate change. Overall, the role of urban planning is pivotal in creating sustainable cities that prioritize reducing UHI effects, thereby improving the quality of life and public health for urban residents. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Ecological modernization theory, biophilic design theory and urban climate theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the role of urban planning in reducing urban heat island effects in Vietnam. In practice, urban planners should prioritize the adoption of multifunctional green infrastructure in city development plans. On a policy level, governments at all levels should enact comprehensive UHI mitigation policies that support sustainable urban development.