By Jane Bracher
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The Philippines has begun building a "back-up" city, from where government offices can still function should capital Manila succumb to a natural disaster such as an earthquake.
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Vivencio Dizon, president of government owned and controlled Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), which is spearheading the project, says one key is to minimize traffic pollution. Large areas of the city will be pedestrianized, and a river walkway will run right through the city. Efficient mass transportation is planned, to reduce the need for cars.
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He says public utilities will use greener energy sources, such as solar power, liquefied natural gas and waste-to-energy facilities. Buildings will be designed to use little energy.
The planners also intend to preserve the natural landscape of the area, retaining its river and avoiding cutting down trees.
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Central to New Clark City's disaster resilience is its location. It is on a much higher elevation than Manila, making it less vulnerable to flooding, says Dizon. The city will further implement wide drainage systems and "no-build zones" to mitigate any flooding that may occur.
It is also surrounded by a nearby mountain range that could protect it against strong winds from typhoons.
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