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Have you ever wondered how cities will look in the future? I think they (1) ___________ different from now with more places to relax, taller buildings and better transportation.

First of all, one significant change will be the need for more places such as parks, leisure centers, and entertainment areas. The reason for having these places is that people will have to work harder and longer hours; (2) ___________, they will need more places to (3) ___________ and relax.

Another change will be high-rise buildings for offices and apartments, as more people will move to the city. This change will (4) ___________ the cost of land, so it will be cheaper to build upwards rather than sideways.

Also, as more people live in the city, there will be a greater need to have better transportation so people can move around the city quickly. This transport will (5) ___________ a subway, high-speed, and tram systems.

To conclude, our cities will look different from now. There will be a lot of challenges as people are likely to demand better lifestyles in the city where they live.

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1. In 2005, the Chinese government set a goal to reduce energy consumption per GDP unit by 20% by 2010 and reached the target over five years. The Chinese Climate Protection Program promoted energy efficiency, renewable energy, and reduced emissions. The "Future City" by SBA Design represents these achievements with an efficient low-carbon design supporting climate protection.

2. The future city is planned on Hainan's tourist island. Yinggehai, the planning region, is located in the south-west of Hainan and in total covers an area of 176.2 sqkm. The focus area covers 42.8 sqkm; it is one of the most saline areas of the region and is mainly used for salt production by the use of salines. The "low-carbon city" focuses on renewable energy storage, production, and smart distribution based on demand. It incorporates low building heights and promotes eco-tourism.

3. The architects established guidelines for a city that embodies rural-urban interaction, a "glo-cal DNA city," and a sense of responsibility to which each resident contributes. The city is focused on ecological awareness and continuous development. The urban design concept is centered around a "theme city" approach, with mixed-use areas and district centers, each with a unique function like environmentally-friendly industries or ecological living. The districts operate independently on a daily level while being interconnected through special themes.

4. Public and green spaces like squares, parks, and canals create a natural environment while maintaining an urban character. The transportation network aligns with the pattern of the salines, prioritizing pedestrian-friendly roads with bicycle paths and bus lanes. The energy concept incorporates solar, wind, and rainwater usage, water resource recovery, and energy generation from biological waste. The goal is to develop a visually captivating and energy-efficient city landscape through distinctive architecture.

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When predicting 2050, we often imagine a futuristic world with flying cars and advanced technology. However, the main focus will likely be sustainability rather than flashy gadgets.

A. Localized Communities & Urban Hubs

Urban hubs will emerge as a solution by 2050 to ensure sustainability and avoid space limitations and resource shortages. These hubs will feature mixed-use buildings and developments, serving as localized communities with all-in-one functionalities such as housing, workspaces, social spaces, and farming. Greater integration among different age groups and social classes within urban hubs will foster cohesive and diverse communities.

B. Redefined Transportation

Transportation in 2050 will differ significantly from our expectations. While self-driving cars are a popular topic, their sustainability implications raise concerns. Emission-free vehicles slow city efficiency, impede other transportation modes, and consume resources. Streets will prioritize pedestrians and alternative transportation, reducing car-centric sprawl. Public transportation will be safer, affordable, and more efficient, with high-speed and automated travel becoming the norm.

C. Smart Cities

In 2050, technology will prioritize sustainability and play a larger role in cities. Smart technology will connect people and enhance the city-life experience. Efficiency will be crucial, with artificial intelligence and automation serving as the backbone of the economy and daily life. While challenges exist, we hope AI and automation will benefit humanity, improving efficiency, work-life balance, and economic prosperity. Additionally, virtual and extended reality will become mainstream, transforming how we interact in society.

D. Increased Biodiversity & Improved Resources

In 2050, cities will prioritize biodiversity and greener practices to protect the natural environment. Innovative methods like vertical farming will contribute to resource generation. Protecting natural environments within and around cities is crucial. Self-sufficiency extends to energy production, with sustainable cities striving to create as much energy as they consume.

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1. Rooftop farming, often known as urban agriculture, is the cultivation of plants and animal farming on the rooftops of urban structures. This type of farming has existed for millennia, but it has recently acquired favor as a solution to some of the issues that cities confront, such as a lack of space, pollution, and a desire for fresh food.

2. One of the primary advantages of rooftop farming is the ability to grow fresh produce in the heart of the city, reducing the need for transportation and the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transport. Rooftop farms provide several community benefits, including educational opportunities, employment training, and volunteer opportunities, as well as enhancing community participation and developing social bonds. They also help to reduce the urban heat island effect by lowering temperatures and improving air quality.

3. Despite the apparent benefits of rooftop gardening, several challenges must be overcome. One of the most significant barriers is the cost of developing and maintaining a rooftop farm. Modifying a structure for rooftop farming can be costly, including reinforcing the roof and adding irrigation systems. Furthermore, the varieties of crops grown on a rooftop are limited, as many plants may need help to endure the high winds and intense sunshine.

4. In essence, rooftop gardening is a potential answer to the problems that cities face as their populations grow. Rooftop gardening is becoming a popular alternative as cities worldwide look for ways to bring nature back into the urban environment and develop sustainable food systems. Even while there are challenges to overcome, the potential benefits of rooftop gardening are too great to ignore. Rooftop farming can transform our urban landscape and generate a more sustainable future if approached and supported correctly.