Tall buildings are a common sight in big cities. Increasingly, some are getting a touch of green.

One such structure has gone up in central China and designed to clear the air.

CGTN’s Frances Kuo reports.

In the center of Xi’an’s concrete jungle is a green oasis.But you have to look up to see it, 10 stories high.

“It is not only beautiful but also functional,” said Yan Tao, General Manager of Xi’an Greengine Ecology. This is not just any building – it’s China’s largest so-called “intelligent plant wall.”

Nearly 17,000 plants blanket its façade, able to grow year-round without having to be replaced. 

The green walls are able to absorb harmful carbon dioxide emissions and filter greenhouse gases. The foliage also shares space with a built-in mist system. 

It – along with plant growth – can be monitored both by computer or mobile phone.

“The mist system can start automatically when the temperature is high, and it can bring down nearby temperatures by about eight to 10 degrees Celsius,” said Yan Tao.  “At the same time, the system can effectively reduce the concentration of particulate matter in the winter.”

Tiny particles in the air can enter the lungs and cause serious health problems. This green technology is a welcome sight for residents in China, as the government continues its “war against pollution.”

Progress has been reported. A study by Peking University showed levels of harmful air particles declining in more than 70 Chinese cities.

The World Health Organization says nearly two million people die every year in China from environmental and household pollution.

Vertical gardens can do their part. Worldwide, they’re taking off – and up.

The largest is in Bogota, Colombia.

It’s estimated to provide enough oxygen for about three-thousand people every year.

In Xi’an, the green wall has gone up just in time for the stifling summer.

“It has been really hot in Xi’an recently,” said one Xi’an resident.  “Every time I come here, I feel cool when the mist was sprayed on my body. It’s refreshing.”

It’s a breath of fresh air in the ongoing struggle for a cleaner environment.

Tyson Slocum discusses the impact of “intelligent green walls” on environment

CGTN’s Mike Walter talks with Tyson Slocum, director of Public Citizen’s Energy Program, about the impact of “intelligent green walls” on the environment.