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Report finds the Middle East could soon be too hot for human inhabitation as Dubai moves forward with its own indoor rainforest in a skyscraper

Report finds the Middle East could soon be too hot for human inhabitation as Dubai moves forward with its own indoor rainforest in a skyscraper

In an ironic twist, the global fuel powerhouse that is the Middle East is at risk of becoming too hot for human life due to the emissions produced as a result of creating that fuel. Such news evidently means little to the city of Dubai which is currently in line for two new luxurious skyscrapers, one of which will feature its very own rainforest.

Jeremy Pal and Elfatih A. B. Eltahir recently published “Nature: Climate Change” which outlines how rising temperatures in the Persian Gulf will render the area inhospitable. The study compares a standard model of CO2 emissions over the course of 80 years to the temperatures deemed viable for human life. The more shocking news is that the research factors in mankind’s predicted future efforts to curb emissions.

The climate variables that were used to determine that human life was unsupportable were complex, though Pal and Eltahir simplified it, using a measurement called “wet bulb” heat. This was described as “a combined measure of temperature and humidity, or ‘mugginess’” by which a maximum exposure time of six hours to the conditions (of 95 Fahrenheit) was stated. Anything more “would probably be intolerable even for the fittest of humans,” they noted, adding that “even the most basic outdoor activities are likely to be severely impacted.”

Toronto-based architect firm ZASA, however, has different ideas.

Situated off Sheikh Zayed Road (SZR) in Al Thanyah First, two luxury towers in exuberant Dubai style will offer nothing other than the flamboyant panache that made the city famous: the complex boasts its own rainforest and an artificial beach.

The 3.2 acre site will encompass the two, 47-story-high towers, a five storey podium, and two basement levels. Both towers will include a “sky lobby” and “sky pool.” Meanwhile, the 450-room Key Hotel will offer fine dining restaurants, spa, a health club, and meeting rooms. The other tower is being called a “Serviced Apartment Tower.”

ZASA says that the architecture is meant to represent contemporary life in Dubai, while the “modernist” structures utilize “active frontage” via the implementation of podiums that proportion the towers.

(h/t  The New York Times for Nature: Climate Change)

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