The Floating ecopolis, otherwise known as the Lilypad, is a model designed by Belgian architect Vincent Callebaut for future climatic refugees. He proposed this model as a long-term solution to rising water level as per the GIEC (Intergovernmental group on the evolution of the climate) forecast. It is a self-sufficient amphibious city and satisfies the four challenges laid down by the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) in March 2008 namely, climate, biodiversity, water and health.
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Architect
Vincent Callebaut is a Belgian architect known for his eco-friendly projects. He has received many awards. Some of the recent ones include:
Design
The floating structure has a capacity to shelter 50,000 individuals. It consists of three marinas and three mountains, which are meant for entertainment purposes, surrounding a centrally located artificial lagoon that performs the task of collecting and purifying water. The shape of this floating structure was inspired from the highly ribbed leaf of the Amazonia Victoria Regia water lily. The double skin of this structure would be made of polyester fibers covered by a layer of titanium dioxide (TiO2). The titanium oxide reacts with ultra violet rays and therefore, due to photocatalytic effect, it absorbs atmospheric pollution in the process.
Energy
By only using renewable energies, this design has zero carbon emission and it produces more energy than it consumes. Energy sources could include: