© Stefano Boeri Architetti

40,000 trees and millions of plants will form the basis for the world's first forest city. Construction has just begun in southern China.

China has taken a leading position in terms of green energy and now the Asian superpower is building the world's first so-called forest city.

The construction of the eco-friendly city has just begun near the million city of Liuzhou in Guangxi Province.

The forest city has been designed by the Italian architect Stefano Boeri, which stands behind the vertical forest Bosco Verticale in Milan. The forest city is expected to accommodate 30,000 people when it is ready by 2020.

© Stefano Boeri Architetti

Liuzhou Forest City, called the city, will be covered by nature - including about one million plants and 40,000 trees. Together, the city's flora can absorb 10,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide, which corresponds to the emissions from more than 2 100 cars. In addition, the city produces 900 tonnes of oxygen per year.

© Stefano Boeri Architetti

The city occupies an area of approximately 1.75 square kilometers - almost four times as much as the Vatican - and in addition to the 30,000 homes, it also includes a hospital, two schools and many shopping opportunities. An electric train will transport electric cars between the forest city and Liuzhou.

© Stefano Boeri Architetti

All energy in the city is green and comes from geothermal heating systems and solar cells on the buildings.

© Stefano Boeri Architetti

The hope is that the green city by reducing carbon dioxide emissions can help lower the otherwise increasing average temperature in the area. In addition, Liuzhou Forest City will nurture local wildlife and increase the biodiversity of the area.

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