Air pollution is becoming an increasing problem, as some of Britain's biggest cities knows all too well. In response to high pollution levels in China, the Liuzhou Municipality Urban Planning department has commissioned a "forest city".
A study in 2015 claimed that 4,000 people die as a result of air pollution in China every day. However, China's latest major development aims to put an end to polluted air in city areas.
Designed by Stefano Boeri Architetti, the Forest City under construction in Liuzhou, Guangxi Province, will be home to around 30,000 people and will be covered in 1 million plants and 40,000 trees, aimed at absorbing 10,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide and 57 tonnes of pollutants whilst generating around 900 tonnes of oxygen, every year.
The development will also have the added advantage of helping to decrease temperatures, improve local air quality, generate habitats and improve biodiversity. It will also be self-sufficient by running on renewable energy.
It will not just be a city designed to house people though. The design incorporates commercial areas, recreational spaces, a hospital and schools.
If this design is successful, it could set a new standard in urban development and perform as a case study for future architects. Work has started in the construction of the city, and it is estimated to take three years to complete.
