Overpopulation and energy consumption are two of the biggest dilemmas facing mankind today. The planet’s population is growing exponentially, and at a rate unlike any other time in human history. How are we going to feed these people, where are they going to live? There’s a few projects underway that address this dire issue.

The Maldives, an island nation located just south of India, has an average elevation of just five feet above sea level. Eighty percent of the nation hovers just one foot above sea level. The country fears that it’s days may be numbered as the ocean steadily rises.

“Climate change is upon us and the Maldives are feeling it most. That’s why they’re leading the way in trying to find a way to combat the problem.” -Mark Spalding, senior marine scientist at the Nature Conversancy

That solution may be self-sustaining man-made floating islands; an arcology of sorts. The nation is going all out to pursue this end, and has the pieces in place to build the world’s first floating golf course and resort. The Maldivian government is working with established cutting edge architectural firm Dutch Docklands, as well as golf course management mainstay Troon Golf to make these dreams a reality.