Water is life — and throughout history, human settlements have always gravitated towards living near bodies of water. An estimated half of the world’s population live within 100 kilometers of a coast, which is a population density of around twice the global average. Likewise, 14 ouf of 17 largest cities are located on coasts, with 11 in Asia alone.
Nevertheless, the world’s coastal cities face a double whammy from climate change. By 2050, a staggering 800 million people, roughly the population of Europe, could be residing in cities on the seaside facing threats from rising sea levels exceeding half a meter. This stark reality highlights the immense vulnerability of coastal communities as climate change accelerates.
The Urgent Challenge: Rising Seas and Vulnerable Coasts
Rising sea levels directly threaten with inundation, salinization of freshwater, and erosion. Additionally, intensified storms and changing weather patterns bring more frequent and severe flooding, storm surges, and droughts. These are amplified by dense populations, development in risky areas, and limited resources, making adaptation even more urgent. Coastal cities need solutions that address both the physical impacts of climate change and the social, economic, and political factors that exacerbate their fragility.
With millions facing potential displacement and infrastructure crumbling under the strain, innovative solutions are desperately needed. Enter OCEANIX: Based off the coast of Busan, South Korea, it’s the world’s first prototype of a floating smart city, offering a revolutionary approach to coastal living and adaptation.
A Paradigm Shift: From Defending the Shore to Living with the Ocean
After the plans for it were unveiled in 2019, OCEANIX is progressing towards its 2025 completion target. The modular and sustainable design is being finalized, construction permits are underway, and partnerships are forming for future expansion. This innovative project holds immense potential for transforming coastal living and adapting to rising sea levels.
Instead of battling against the advancing tides, OCEANIX proposes a radical shift in perspective. The brainchild of Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) and Oceanix, this ambitious project envisions modular, hexagon-shaped platforms interconnected to form a resilient, self-sustaining community afloat the ocean. This not only lessens the risks of rising sea levels but opens up vast stretches of ocean real estate for sustainable development.
Innovation Meets Community: A New Definition of Urban Living
The design of OCEANIX goes beyond functionality and climate change risk mitigation. The 10,000 residents of this floating smart city will enjoy a high quality of life, every aspect of which is defined by sustainability.
OCEANIX is set to be home to vibrant public spaces, bustling community centers, and lush green areas overlooking the endless ocean. Residences will seamlessly blend with commercial establishments and research facilities, fostering a dynamic and inclusive community. Likewise, schools are planned to be integrated into the urban fabric, with children growing up with the ocean as their backyard.
In OCEANIX, fresh, locally-grown meals could grace tables thanks to on-site aquaponics and vertical gardens, minimizing reliance on external supply chains and food waste. Renewable energy like solar and wind would power the city, kicking the fossil fuel habit and embracing sustainability. Ultra-efficient waste management – composting, recycling, even waste-to-energy solutions – would further decrease environmental impact, crafting a truly green urban haven.
All in all, OCEANIX will truly be chance to reimagine urban living, prioritizing well-being and fostering a deep connection with the natural world.
Riding the Waves of Change From Ancient Reeds to Tech-Driven Seas
From the reed islands of Lake Titicaca in Peru to villages on stills in West Africa, floating settlements are hardly a modern phenomenon. However, modern advancements and environmental challenges are now driving a new wave of innovation in this area, potentially shaping the future of coastal living and adaptation.
Even though there’s no doubt that OCEANIX is a costly and ambitious project set in one of the world’s most tech-forward nations, its success could pave the way for larger-scale implementations, offering hope for coastal communities worldwide.
