The result of the Zero Carbon project: a collaborative scale model of the prototype site, close to the village of Simaisma in Qatar. The community is envisioned car-free and fully energy-independent. Through a system including biodigesters, saltwater greenhouses and underground cooling, it creates its own air-conditioning, drinking water and vegetables while emitting zero carbon. The main access road leads to a semi-underground car park overgrown with edible greens. Transportation within the community happens with e-vehicles. Green corridors and public areas with greywater channels and pools structure the site and connect the greenhouses with the ocean. The site is envisioned to grow to an increasing density with individually designed houses inspired by the traditions of the region.

The Zero Carbon project, an architecture collab for new community models in the desert, was led by Mario Gagliardi with international experts from across the fields of architecture, civil engineering, resource management and design.