The sustainable urban highway of the future

The Loop is a planned 93km climate-controlled ‘sustainable urban highway’ built in Dubai and conceived by URB. The mixed-use project will include vertical farms, wellness hotels, sports facilities and other attractions. However, one of its biggest calling cards is that it is being designed to be energy-positive, using footsteps and the movement of people within it to generate electricity. As a highly sustainable venture and part of Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan, the project also envisions a zero-emissions transport system and the use of 100 per cent recycled water for its irrigation needs. Further details about this futuristic project are yet to be revealed – but urban planners around the world would do well to start paying close attention.