The Maldives is an archipelago of many low-lying islands, 80 percent of which are less than one meter above sea level. In a worst-case scenario, the entire country could be submerged by 2100 due to rising sea levels.
The floating city being built in the Maldives is just a 10-minute boat ride from the capital. It will consist of around 5,000 floating houses, restaurants, schools and shops, which will be built at a local shipyard and towed into place. The units are anchored to the hull underwater to prevent them from drifting. The nearby reef acts as a natural breakwater to minimize movement felt by residents.
The city will also be self-sufficient, with most of its electricity coming from solar power. Sewage will be treated and reused as plant fertilizer. Buildings and dwellings will use cold water from the depths of the Indian Ocean to replace traditionalair conditionerrefrigeration.
Prices aren’t all that bad either, starting at around $150,000 for a studio and around $250,000 for a family home.
The city is expected to welcome its first residents in early 2024, and the project will be completed in 2027.
