Abu Dhabi - Wind power for the world's most sustainable, zero-waste, car-free, carbon-neutral city?

Masdar City is poised to become the world's most sustainable, zero-waste, car-free, carbon-neutral city. The US$15 billion (S$21 billion) city is being built by the Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company. It will serve as the headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency.

Designed by Lord Foster of Foster & Partners, it will rely entirely on solar energy and other renewable energy sources, with a sustainable, zero-carbon and zero-waste ecology. The project will feature narrow streets, squat buildings and no cars. Solar panels will act as awnings to shelter pedestrians from the sun.

While wind energy will power the city and its water desalination plant, transport will be in futuristic travel pods that do not consume gasoline. The buildings in Masdar City will be among the most advanced in the world. Intelligent design of residential or commercial spaces will reduce the need for artificial lighting or air-conditioning.

Wind towers and solar shades will help to improve the comfort level of residents. Upon completion, Masdar City will provide housing for 14,000 to 15,000 people and workspace for some 50,000. The businesses will primarily be commercial and manufacturing facilities, specialising in environment-friendly products.

The living environment will be similar to Novosibirsk in Russia and the Tsukuba Science City in Japan.

For more information please contact Trevor Sievert at ts@windfair.net