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Letters | Yu Kongjian’s legacy of ‘sponge cities’ will carry on
Readers discuss a Chinese flood control solution for the world, reactions to a new tech talent visa, and golf tourism in Hong Kong
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On September 18, Forbes released its Sustainability Leaders List, which included Chinese landscape architect and Peking University professor Yu Kongjian. This is a significant list, boosting the public’s environmental awareness and showcasing Chinese wisdom on the international stage.
Academically, Yu broke new ground for environmental research. He was both an advocate and practitioner of “sponge cities”, an urban development model that emphasises the role of permeable surfaces, green spaces and water parks in absorbing, filtering and slowly releasing rainwater. His selection reflects the international community’s recognition of the academic value of his concept and may inspire more scholars to engage in urban ecological research.
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Yu’s inclusion in the list could draw significant public attention to sustainable development. In recent years, a growing number of cities have drawn on the sponge city concept for renovation. Facilities such as rain gardens and green roofs have appeared in some communities, improving the living environment and fostering residents’ personal experience of sustainable development. As the sponge city concept continues to be put into practice, it will also inspire public enthusiasm for taking part in environmental protection, feeding a virtuous circle of promoting sustainable development from the bottom up.
Internationally, Yu’s inclusion enhances China’s discourse power in the global field of sustainable development. China’s practical achievements in sponge cities have been demonstrated globally, providing a replicable Chinese solution for other countries. Meanwhile, the technology and experience of sponge cities have become an important part of international exchange. China can share successful instances of urban flood control and ecological restoration with other countries, enhancing global cooperation in sustainable development.
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Yu’s inclusion in the Forbes list is a milestone. It has a profound impact on multiple fronts, including academic innovation, public environmental awareness and international cooperation, illuminating a new path forward for global sustainable development. Even though the architect died last month, his legacy will be carried on by his students and colleagues around the world.
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