Written by: Saram Maqbool
Posted on: October 31, 2023 | 
| 中文
The Liuzhou Forest City is a marvel of green design
Sustainability has become a global imperative in the 21st century as countries try to fight the challenges posed by climate change and urbanization. Swathes of land that were once green have now been replaced with concrete blocks. The channels where water once flowed are now traversed by carbon-emitting vehicles. The result is a world that’s growing increasingly unhealthy to live, with air that’s difficult to breathe in and weather that’s nearly impossible to manage. The solution, at least to an extent, is to turn towards sustainable development of cities. In this context, China has emerged as a prominent player in the promotion of sustainable architecture and urban design.
Shenzhen City
China's rapid urbanization has been nothing short of a marvel, but it has also brought forth significant environmental challenges. Instead of succumbing to the perils of unchecked development, China has instead chosen a path that’s guided by the principles of sustainability and environmental consciousness. It wasn't a long time ago when Beijing was considered one of the most polluted cities in the world, with images and videos of the dust-stricken atmosphere making the rounds on news outlets. The same city has seen a massive drop of 56.2% in air pollution levels between 2013 and 2021, as reported by the Air Quality Life Index. That's a significant change and something that requires a deeper discussion.
China's journey towards sustainable architecture begins in the heart of its cities, where towering skyscrapers rise in a mesmerizing display of human ingenuity. Yet, these skyscrapers are much more than just buildings for they are beacons of sustainability. Take the Shanghai Tower as an example. It's a soaring masterpiece that blends cutting-edge technology with environmental responsibility. Its twisted form isn't just for aesthetics but is designed to reduce wind load, making it more energy-efficient. Solar panels cover its skin, capturing the sun's energy to power the building. There are many others like this, becoming a testament to China's vision of harmonizing nature and technology.
Yichun Eco-City
China's eco-cities, like Tianjin Eco-City and Liuzhou Forest City, are nothing short of modern miracles. They are utopias designed to maximize sustainability and minimize the ecological footprint. These cities aren't just places to live, but are expressions of China's commitment to a harmonious coexistence with nature. Green spaces, renewable energy and efficient public transportation are the backbone of these urban paradises, setting new standards for the global community. The Liuzhou Forest City, in particular, is fascinating! Designed by Stefano Boeri Architetti, it's described as "an urban body in which offices, houses, hotels, hospitals and schools are almost entirely covered by plants and trees of a wide range of varieties and sizes". This "urban organism" is stated to absorb nearly 10,000 tons of carbon dioxide and 57 tons of microplastics annually, while producing some 900 tons of oxygen. Liuzhou is a city in the province of Guangxi, which is among the most smog-affected regions in the world. Having an audacious design like the Forest City, is a statement of the direction China is headed in. Other eco-cities have also been developed across the nation, including the likes of Yichun, Shenzhen and Chengdu. Each is designed with just the right blend of futuristic innovation and reliance on nature, both aspects that are crucial for the world to combat climate change.
Tianjin was the first Eco-City in China
Green building certification systems, such as the China Green Building Evaluation Standard, have become the foundation of China's sustainable architecture revolution. These standards challenge architects and developers to push the boundaries of sustainability. Achieving the coveted three-star rating is a testament to the unwavering dedication to environmental responsibility. With its own LEED-like (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification system, China's green building revolution is not just about aesthetics but a comprehensive approach to sustainability that tackles: energy efficiency, water conservation and indoor environmental quality. They have thus created spaces that are conducive to human health and performance, while giving something back to the nature that surrounds them.
But China's sustainable architecture push doesn't stop at certifications, as it is marked by its relentless pursuit of innovation. The country invests heavily in research and development, leading to a slew of groundbreaking materials and construction techniques. Solar-powered cities, vertical forests and buildings that breathe are not mere concepts anymore, but a reality that is changing the landscape of our future. What sets China apart is its global outreach through the Belt and Road Initiative. The country is exporting its expertise and sustainable infrastructure to partner nations, serving as a beacon of hope for a world seeking a path to a more sustainable future.
WeBank Headquarter in Shenzhen, another sustainable skyscraper
After decades of unprecedented economic and industrial growth, China has rightfully taken a step back and looked at everything that growth has cost it. The country has realized that its people deserve healthier places to live and work, and that the planet requires us to take care of it. Instead of simply making statements and making empty promises, it has decided to take the challenge head-on and inspire the rest of the world to follow suit. Here's to hoping that Pakistan also learns something from its neighbor and starts investing in green buildings and cities, to achieve a future not marred by hazy skies and toxic water.
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