Floating Cities Emerge in Response to Global Warming

As global warming transitions from a theoretical concern to a likely reality, environmentalists and entrepreneurs respond in myriad ways. One such response involves investing in and constructing small cities comprised of artificial floating islands that will serve as permanent escapes and new homes for those who live in areas where sea levels are rapidly rising.

Conceived by technology and environmental experts, the sustainably efficient chain of islands would be built in the South Pacific under the government of French Polynesia. The first rollout of exclusive islands (which would theoretically begin construction in early 2018) would feature real estate prices that would rival those of some of the world’s most expensive cities, like New York and London, drawing much criticism from potential investors who doubt the sustainability of the islands and the ability to develop and maintain a functioning infrastructure.

With hopes of eventually expanding the project with housing that is easier and faster to manufacture, residences on these potential island chains could decrease in price and become more accessible to all who are interested.

Fundraising has already begun with more than $2.5 million donated to a California nonprofit organization spearheading the project. The Seasteading Institute anticipates the total price of the project to range between $10 and $50 million.