The Republic of Maldives has begun working with property developer Dutch Docklands and architecture firm Waterstudio to build a floating city for 20,000 residents. But unlike luxury chalets for wealthy tourists, this project will be a practical solution in the event of rising ocean levels. The Maldives is an archipelago of many atolls, 80% of which are less than one metre above sea level. In a worst-case scenario, the entire country could be underwater by 2100.
The new floating city will be a 10-minute boat ride from the capital Male. It will have 5,000 floating houses, cafes, schools and shops. They are planned to be erected in a shipyard and then towed to the site. The blocks will be secured to prevent drifting.