Sasaki is hoping to create a new approach to urban agriculture with a 100-hectare swath of land between Shanghai’s main international airport and the city center.
The new plan for the district will integrate vertical farming systems with research and public outreach. The goal is to create a ‘living laboratory’ for innovation and education. Sasaki hopes to merge indoor and outdoor agricultural experiences in Sunqiao and turn the city’s food production into a social experience.
In addition to the very practical purpose of providing the city with food, Sunqiao will also help to educate the surrounding children about where their food comes from. A science museum, aquaponics showcase, skygarden, and interactive greenhouse are all included to help educate the population and include them in the growing process.
According to Sasaki, 56% of the vegetables consumed in the Shanghainese diet are leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and bok choi. The reason this is important is because these are the exact type of vegetables that thrive in the simple setups vertical farming can easily provide. They grow quickly, weigh little, and do not require a lot of attention.
The master plan does not just call for Sunqiao to become a completely agricultural district. A public plaza, civic plaza, digital amphitheater, commercial center, and office towers will turn the area into a true mixed-use development.
Construction will begin in 2017.
Image courtesy Sasaki.
Image courtesy Sasaki.
Image courtesy Sasaki.
Image courtesy Sasaki.
Image courtesy Sasaki.
Image courtesy Sasaki.
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