The Urban Growth Challenges of Implementing Nature-Based Solutions for Stormwater Management in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Peri-urbanisation is a particular pattern of urbanization defined by rapid and fragmented growth. Understanding the expansion and densification of peri-urban areas aids local policy-makers and planners in developing intervention strategies for addressing urban planning challenges. This chapter explores our understanding of the recent urban growth dynamics of flood prone Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Here, flood risks are not effectively considered in urban planning, with an excessive over-reliance on traditional drainage systems. Using geospatial mapping and fieldwork-based methods, the results highlight the structures, scale, and rapid loss in the existing natural capacity to implement decentralised nature-based solutions for stormwater management. Characterising the unique processes and drivers of change, the results show the rapidity of urbanisation and the importance of precautionary planning principles. Require planning interventions are discussed within the context of specific growth challenges, including negative lock-ins, maladaptation and unsustainable urbanisation, providing a better understanding of downscaled stormwater risks and management opportunities. The chapter stresses the need for urban planners, decision- and policy-makers to understand the past, current and future trends of expansion and densification; and take proper decisions for enhancing sustainable urban stormwater management.