The Floating ecopolis, otherwise known as the Lilypad, is a model designed by Belgian architect Vincent Callebaut for future climatic refugees.
He proposed this model as a long-term solution to rising water level as per the GIEC (Intergovernmental group on the evolution of the climate) forecast.
It is a self-sufficient amphibious city and satisfies the four challenges laid down by the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) in March 2008 namely, climate, biodiversity, water and health.
It consists of three marinas and three "mountains", which are meant for entertainment purposes, surrounding a centrally located artificial lagoon that performs the task of collecting and purifying water.
The shape of this floating structure was inspired from the highly ribbed leaf of the Amazonia Victoria Regia water lily.