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Hanoi to Plant Over 400,000 Trees by 2026, Boosting Urban Greenery

7 January, 2026

THE HANOI TIMES — In a bold move towards sustainable urban development, Hanoi has announced plans to plant over 400,000 new trees by 2026. This initiative is part of the city’s broader strategy to enhance urban greening, protect forests, and achieve environmental goals, ultimately transforming the capital into a greener, more livable metropolis.

The project includes the planting of approximately 200,000 shade and timber trees, along with 200,000 fruit trees, across key locations such as roadsides, government offices, parks, hospitals, schools, and residential areas. This effort aims to improve the city’s landscape while fostering ecological balance and sustainable growth.

Additionally, Hanoi will establish 30 hectares of new production forests and continue to safeguard special-use and protective forests, ensuring stable forest coverage for future generations.

Lush greenery adorns a tunnel along Thang Long Avenue in Hanoi. Photo: Pham Cong/The Hanoi Times

Vu Dai Thang, Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee, emphasized the significance of the tree planting campaign, a tradition that has long contributed to expanding green spaces in a city heavily impacted by climate change.

“As we strive to develop Hanoi into a green, civilized, and modern city, tree planting and maintaining urban greenery remain at the forefront of our annual socio-economic development plans,” stated Thang.

He highlighted the importance of diversifying tree species, prioritizing native varieties, and introducing new ones that thrive in Hanoi’s soil and climate. Standardized tree sizes and proper care will ensure the long-term success of these efforts.

The annual Lunar New Year tree-planting campaign, inspired by President Ho Chi Minh’s vision, has played a pivotal role in advancing urban greening and afforestation, according to the mayor.

To ensure harmony between greenery and urban infrastructure, tree planting will be strategically aligned with traffic networks and underground facilities. Investors in transport and development projects are mandated to adhere to approved tree standards and are prohibited from converting designated green spaces for other purposes.

Hanoi will also rejuvenate its existing tree system by replacing diseased, deformed, or unsuitable trees that no longer meet urban standards.

Community involvement is encouraged, with organizations and households urged to green buildings using plants, flowers, and lawns. Plans are also underway to renovate gardens, playgrounds, and parks, as well as expand green belts along highways.

Local authorities are tasked with raising awareness about the long-term benefits of greenery and fostering a shared responsibility for planting, caring for, and protecting trees.

Tree Planting Transforms Hanoi’s Environment

A report by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) acknowledges Hanoi’s efforts to expand its green cover from the city center to its suburbs and ring roads, significantly contributing to environmental protection.

Hanoi’s Ring Road 2 is beautifully lined with rows of lush, small-leaved trees, creating a picturesque scene. Photo: Duy Khanh/The Hanoi Times

“In recent years, Hanoi has become noticeably greener, with tree-lined streets redefining the city’s landscape. Vibrant rows of trees have enhanced urban aesthetics, turning many streets into popular photo spots and hubs for cultural and artistic activities,” shared Ta Thi Mai Thanh, a resident of Tu Liem Ward, in an interview with The Hanoi Times.

Over the past few years, Hanoi has planted millions of trees, steadily increasing greenery across the city.

Numerous streets have been upgraded and widened, featuring green corridors on both sides. New thoroughfares such as Pham Van Dong, Pham Hung, Le Duc Tho, Hoang Quoc Viet, Vo Chi Cong, and Vo Nguyen Giap now provide continuous shade for residents and visitors alike.

The trees selected for Hanoi’s streets are carefully chosen to suit local climate conditions, ensuring they are non-toxic and non-polluting, leaving a lasting impression on tourists.

Tree planting not only greens the city but also regulates air quality, improves the environment, and gives each street a unique character, she added.

According to the Hanoi Department of Construction, the capital is home to approximately 1.8 million trees, which play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and creating a healthier living environment.

The department has called on relevant units to develop annual plans for expanding tree planting in urban areas, industrial zones, and along roads on the city’s outskirts, aiming to increase canopy cover and protect the environment.