Floating 'lilypad cities' to save climate change refugees - PHOTOS

Floating “lilypad” cities containing residents displaced by rising sea levels have been proposed as a worldwide answer to climate change.

Belgian architect Vincent Callebaut has designed the floating cities as independent, car-free permanent refuges for those whose homes are covered in water.

Each “lilypad” would float around the world as a fully self-sustainable city able to house up to 50,000 people.

They would all have a lake at the centre to collect and purify rainwater, be accessible by three separate marinas and feature artificial mountains for residents bored by the ocean views.

Power would be provided through renewable energy sources such as solar panels on the mountain sides, wind turbines and a wave-driven power station.

There would be no need for roads or cars and the cities would be covered by plants houses in suspended gardens.

Mr Callebaut hasn’t costed his creations but believes they hold the long-term solution to rising water levels.

As long as you don’t get seasick.