SMOG-BUSTING BUIDINGS

Smog is a serious issue in cities across the globe, threatening the health of many people. But steps are underway to tackle it using some innovative new technologies that can pull it out of the air.

One such idea is the Vertical Forest project in Milan. This pair of residential towers hosts 20,000 trees and plants to absorb nearly 20,000 kilograms of carbon dioxide every year and turn it into oxygen. The trees can also keep the temperatures of buildings down and filter out dust particles from traffic. Specialised aerial arborists scale the buildings to keep the plants and trees fed and watered.

Similar projects have since sprung up in China (the Liuzhou Forest City), Canada and elsewhere. While one would hope the problem of pollution might be stopped at the source by reducing emissions, these at least offer another solution.

“Smog is a serious issue in cities across the globe, threatening the health of many people”

The Vertical Forest project in Milan helps to reduce air pollution

International idea The concept for the Forest City was designed by Milan-based Stefano Boeri Architetti.

Green travel In line with the eco-friendly surroundings, the cars on the roads will be electric.

Leaves by the line The city will be equipped with a futuristic train line and spaceship-like train station.

among nature The Liuzhou Forest City will be home to 30,000 people and around 40,000 trees.