Architects in Italy are designing skyscrapers with trees on each floor, to the top floor. Why? To reduce heating and cooling costs, clean the air, conserve energy, filter dust and, while absorbing carbon dioxide, produce oxygen. They are aesthetically pleasing as well.
Will it work?
"They are pioneers, new neighbours being asked to live with us in the sky. They'll take in the CO2 and breathe out oxygen. We'll take in the oxygen and breathe out CO2. We'll water them. They'll aerate us. It's a whole new neighbourhood. Yes, we may stumble as we rise, but rise we shall. These towers in Milan will lead the way." (Robert Krulwich is quoted as saying in the article which may be accessed through the link above.)
Do you think it will work? My questions are: where will they put the dirt within which the trees will be planted and how much do they need to sustain the life of the tree? Can the structure support this weight?
Do you think this is a feasible project?
5 comments:
When working with steel, it definitely can support the weight. The trees will be out of their element, used more like gigantic houseplants. It might work with the right kind of trees and care. Will just have to wait and see.
Interesting ... will you keep us posted if you hear more?
Clipped Wings and Joey, I am sure a good deal of research will go into selecting the appropriate trees. I can only imagine living in such an apartment. It would feel a lot more like a home, to me, with the trees. I'll do my best to provide updates as they become available.
jd pab said...
I love the concept. Even if it ends up becoming problematic or unworkable in its initial configuration, it's worth continuing as an experimental test bed (provided those that build it are prepared to continuing working at it). There are millions of types of trees and bushes, many adapted to pretty extreme conditions. I'm fairly certain that something can be found. On the other side, there will undoubtedly be lessons to learn about materials, irrigation and other aspects of the building's architecture.
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I'm sure there will be a learning curve!
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