Brian Jeffrey
Cat Ba is well-suited for ecotourism.
To shift towards carbon-neutral tourism, the island should encourage the use of electric vehicles and green hydrogen for transporting goods and passengers on land and water, and even consider air transport options.
Worldwide, several vessels have started using green hydrogen.
International maritime authorities are creating low-emission zones, requiring ships to utilize electric or hydrogen power in eco-friendly ports.
This creates a clear path for Cat Ba to develop its port facilities, supporting eco-tourism with environmentally friendly vessels, helicopters, and transport systems.
The maritime area of Cat Ba-Ha Long Bay aligns with the International Maritime Organization’s criteria for a Particularly Sensitive Sea Area (PSSA).
If achieved, it would mark Vietnam’s first PSSA designation, joining 18 others internationally, and solidifying its status as a sustainable maritime tourism center.
In the short run, authorities in Hai Phong should motivate locals to switch to electric transportation.
This shift necessitates the establishment of infrastructure, including charging stations and renewable energy sources both onshore and eventually offshore.
Tourism facilities should embrace renewable energy strategies with a long-term perspective of 10 to 20 years.
The waters surrounding Cat Ba are notably cleaner than those along the northern coast, displaying higher salinity and a striking blue color similar to that of Da Nang, Nha Trang, or Phu Quoc.
The island’s relative seclusion and modest distance from the mainland provide tourists with desired privacy.
Nonetheless, current public beaches are small and often crowded.
Expanding beach areas to better accommodate tourists and adding water sports facilities could greatly enhance the attraction.
Considering limited land resources, Cat Ba should look to extend development into the sea in allowed regions, particularly around the central bay and fishing ports, which are outside the core protected areas of Cat Ba National Park and the Lan Ha Bay Marine Reserve.
Furthermore, the island needs to invest in new tourism amenities, including entertainment options, to attract high-end vacationers.
With strategic planning, Cat Ba could become a destination for international cruise liners and yachts.
Achieving a sustainable and green island involves broad transitions across multiple sectors, including the adoption of green energy, eco-friendly economic ventures, and sustainable transport systems.
Reducing carbon emissions must be a primary focus.
Transitioning road transport to zero-emission technologies, such as cable cars, electric buses, and bicycles, requires commitment from local government, businesses, and the community.
Tourists should also embrace environmentally conscious travel practices.
Realizing the vision of a carbon-neutral island involves establishing a coordinated electric public transport system with convenient charging stations and stops.
With its small population, Cat Ba is an ideal test site for renewable energy and green tourism projects, serving as a model for other regions.
Investment socialization is crucial, engaging strategic investors and global green energy funds searching for pilots for their renewable initiatives.
The Cat Ba Central Bay project stands as a model of sustainable tourism, featuring advanced waste management solutions, extensive artificial beaches, and green public areas along with contemporary tourism and commercial facilities.
Once operational, it will bridge current tourism gaps while serving as a blueprint for sustainable development.
This initiative promotes eco-friendly energy practices and prioritizes environmental conservation while enhancing the quality of life for local communities.
Developed by Sun Group, a significant strategic investor, this project is anticipated to set standards for future developments.
Sun Group’s successful projects in Da Nang, Phu Quoc, Quang Ninh, and Sapa highlight their expertise in creating iconic, sustainable tourism sites.
Their works in Hai Phong and Cat Ba are poised to uphold strict ecological criteria and boost the island’s status as a leading green tourism destination.
