2026 Special Mention - Tianjin

Tianjin is recognised as an emerging model for sustainable urban development while balancing growth with ecological and cultural heritage preservation.

Tianjin demonstrates sustainable urban development that balances growth with ecological preservation and historical revitalisation. © Tianjin Urban Planning & Design Institute Co. , Ltd.

TIANJIN is recognised as an emerging model for sustainable urban development while balancing growth with ecological and cultural heritage preservation. The city’s evolving approach prioritises liveability, integrating eco-friendly initiatives and historical revitalisation to create a resilient urban environment for a population of 13.4 million while managing the pressures of urbanisation and an ageing population. The city’s leadership demonstrates a clear intention to align modernisation with long-term environmental and cultural goals, positioning Tianjin as a competitive and attractive metropolis.

Public Space and Urban Identity

Tianjin is making significant progress in integrating cultural preservation with innovative urban development to strengthen its urban identity. The revitalisation of historical districts like Wudadao, combined with the activation of public spaces such as Xiannong Courtyard and Minyuan Stadium, reflects the city’s commitment to creating dynamic spaces that blend tradition with modernity.

The heritage district of Wudadao has undergone a successful revitalisation by retaining its architectural identity while introducing modern amenities. This area, once at risk of losing its historical charm due to urbanisation, is now a vibrant cultural and commercial hub through conscious frameworks to preserve the urban texture, spatial scale and fabric. The Minyuan Stadium has been thoughtfully revitalised to maintain its architectural structure while adapting it for modern uses. Once a symbol of the city's sporting history, it has been transformed into a dynamic venue for cultural events, sports activities, and public gatherings, contributing to the city's lively public space network. This transformation has successfully turned the stadium into a key destination for the community, reinforcing Tianjin's identity as a city that creates dynamic public spaces that blend history with modernity.

This progressive approach to transforming public space not only celebrates Tianjin's rich heritage but also nurtures community interaction and engagement, ensuring a high quality of urban life. Ongoing efforts to reclaim road space for pedestrians and expand walkable public realm further enhance the city’s accessibility and urban environment.

Ecological Mindset and Sustainable Initiatives

Tianjin has embraced a holistic, eco-conscious approach to urban planning, ensuring environmental preservation is integrated into every level of urban planning. In Sino-Singapore Tianjin Eco-City, the uninhabitable salt-farm wasteland has been transformed into a highly liveable, vibrant and valuable township. This transformation reflects the city’s commitment to protecting arable farmland from urbanisation while continuing to develop sustainable, high-value industries and homes.

Another key ecological restoration project is Qilihai Wetland. The effort to recover rare bird species around the coastal area has been successful with 182 species in 2017 growing to 308 species currently. The city has also restored approximately 870 square kilometres of its wetland, increasing its green coverage significantly from 31% to 86% and reinforcing its commitment and efforts toward environmental preservation in urban development. These efforts align closely with Tianjin's long-term sustainability goals and serve as a key driver for attracting and retaining talent, particularly young residents who value environmental quality.

The city’s emphasis on green mobility, including the expansion of pedestrianisation and cycling infrastructure and electric vehicle adoption, further reflects its commitment to a cleaner, healthier urban environment that enhances liveability for all residents.

Structured Planning Process

Tianjin's development is guided by a structured and professional planning process that underpins its ability to manage urban regeneration effectively. The city's ability to balance modernisation with heritage preservation reflects its deep-rooted planning legacy. Tianjin’s clear commitment to long-term goals, such as its dual-carbon legislation, alongside the implementation of comprehensive green infrastructure, ensures that urban growth remains sustainable. The city’s planning process not only supports current urban needs, but it also establishes a resilient foundation for future generations, emphasising a growth model that prioritises both economic development and environmental stewardship.

Despite significant progress, Tianjin continues to face significant challenges that affect liveability and long-term sustainability. Integrating green mobility initiatives, including electric vehicles, into a coherent transport strategy remains difficult, particularly where congestion is still common. Coordination between land use and transport also requires strengthening, as overcrowded sidewalks with bicycles and the need for improved regeneration around transportation hubs continue to impact mobility. Additionally, the current aging housing stock presents opportunities for urban renewal, as older residential buildings would significantly benefit from upgrades to align with modern liveability standards. However, Tianjin’s commitment to addressing these challenges while maintaining its focus on sustainability and modernisation ensures continued growth and improvement.

Tianjin’s success in urban regeneration is driven by its structured, process-driven planning that balances modernisation with heritage preservation. By combining long-term planning discipline with a willingness to experiment with new ideas, the city offers a compelling example for rapidly developing urban centres seeking to balance growth and talent retention with environmental and cultural priorities.