From Grey to Green: Sewage Plant Transforming into Urban Par

The Yinchuan No. 1 Reclaimed Water Plant, located in the arid city of Yinchuan, China, was designed to address the city's water scarcity. However, its large infrastructure and negative environmental impacts, such as noise and odor, diminished the value of the surrounding land. To mitigate these issues, landscape architects were tasked with designing an urban park above the plant. Drawing inspiration from the local topography, the park features terraced gardens, sports facilities, and a variety of landscapes. The excavated soil from the park's construction was used to conceal the plant’s large A2O biological pool, integrating the facility into the natural environment. Skylights and daylighting systems were installed to brighten the underground area and provide visitors with a unique view of the wastewater treatment process.
The park's water features rely on the plant’s recycled tailwater, which is diverted and purified to maintain a 100% recycling rate. The tailwater flows through a scenic waterfall that serves both as a filtration system and an aerator. Additionally, rainwater is harvested from 5,000 square meters of Low Impact Development facilities and directed into the park’s wetland and lake, mitigating flooding and reducing pollution risks.
The park has also achieved significant ecological restoration. Inspired by the region's mountain forests, the design incorporated over 100 species of plants, including 4,700 native trees, resulting in a 75% green coverage. This not only improved the local microclimate by reducing air and noise pollution but also provided a habitat for local wildlife. The park now sequesters 86.4 tons of carbon annually.
A key component of the park is its water conservation education program, ‘The Journey of a Water Drop.’ This initiative offers educational exhibits and interactive activities to teach visitors about water recycling and environmental protection. The park has become a popular destination, attracting over 10,000 visitors daily. Local residents use the park for social events and share their experiences on social media, boosting awareness of the park’s innovative design and enhancing the city’s reputation. The park's success has led to higher property values and stimulated local economic growth and job creation, contributing to the region’s development.