In 2026, China proved to the world that megacities can be green forests, rather than cities of toxic smog. The ‘Vertical Forest City’ project built in Chengdu is now successfully completing its third year.
As of April 2026, the city’s buildings had around 8 million trees on their walls and balconies. This made it the biggest ‘carbon sink’ in the world.
A study on air quality and temperature changes revealed a surprising fact. In 2026, the average temperature in Chengdu was 3 degrees Celsius lower than in other surrounding cities.
The buildings here absorb about 30 tons of carbon dioxide each year and release 60 kg of oxygen every day. As a result, the number of patients with lung diseases in the city has decreased by 15%.
Technology Use: In 2026, this forest is maintained by AI-powered drones and robotic gardeners. Sensors are installed at the base of each tree that automatically activate drip irrigation when water is needed. Many city authorities around the world, including RAJUK, are now traveling to China to see this ‘Chengdu Model’.
Social Impact: People in these cities say that being around plants and trees has helped lower their stress. In 2026, this model is now being implemented in New York and London. This is going to be the ideal city of the future.
