Stad+Groen: The Chinese Landscape Architect Advocates for Low-Tech Solutions for Climate-Adaptive Cities
Kongjian Yu, the pioneer behind the Sponge City concept, advocates for low-tech, nature-based solutions to combat climate change, emphasizing the importance of working with nature rather than relying on heavy, high-tech infrastructure like concrete, dams, and pumps. In his presentation at the Future Green City World Congress, Yu highlighted how "sponge landscapes" — inspired by ancient agricultural practices — can effectively manage water by retaining it and allowing for slow drainage. Yu's vision, already applied in several Chinese cities, is gaining international recognition, especially in rapidly developing countries. He stressed that while advanced nations like the Netherlands have the resources to address climate change with high-tech solutions, developing countries need more sustainable, eco-friendly approaches. Yu's approach integrates natural processes into urban landscapes, suggesting that green infrastructure, such as terraced landscapes and water retention basins, provides a more resilient solution to climate extremes. His work, exemplified by the transformation of Sanya's riverfront into a green, flood-tolerant park, demonstrates how these natural solutions not only protect cities from water but also contribute to their aesthetic and economic revitalization. Yu's philosophy is a call to embrace ecological design, where the built environment harmonizes with nature rather than fighting against it.
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