Beijing: Tomorrow Future
SUBMITTED BY TJD DATE 03 - 31 - 2010

Communities around the world are adapting to qualities of Westernization. China is an emerging technological and financial hub in the world. The country is striving to improve the standard of living by developing a sustainable country for future generations. China is developing technologies to reduce their dependence of a global coal reserve for energy. Due to their dependence of coal during the last century, air quality has decreased. This has contributed to a reduced quality of living. Therefore, country has advanced in the development of sustainable technologies. Further, the country produces approximately 2/3rds of the world supply of solar panels. Also, China has created programs to regulate carbon emissions produced by industrial operators. The Beijing Olympic Village was the first development outside the United States to be LEED Gold Certified. This development indicates China’s initiative to concentrate on sustainable development principles. Despite these advancements, obesity has been steadily increasing among teenagers. This is contributed to rapid development and fast food chains. Also, from an early age exercise was not associated with sustaining a healthy life. China is on track to surpass the United States with the highest obesity rate. In some cities, the obesity rate is 25%. On the contrary, 30% of the population of the United States is overweight. China Google.com has begun to influence governmental regulations in China. The website has been delisted from the web since they refused to accept censorship regulations. As similar trends continue to follow, China may consider transitioning towards a democratic government. This would reduce corruption and manipulation by the Chinese government. China has been focusing on attracting foreign firms to develop a prosperous country. There have been several financial advantages for establishing a business. Tax breaks and low wages are some of the top reasons for investing in China. A diverse business community is emerging as China becomes an international financial hub. The conglomerate of business will help define China as a technological advanced country. Influences from Westernization enhance the development on technology and sustainable design for future generations. Top Right: Beijing Olympic Village- Solar panels used to generate energy. Bottom Right: Beijing Water cube- The building collects water from the roof to irrigate vegetation on the site.