Desert turns 'green' in Qatar Experimental greenhouse aims to
combat water shortages In a region known for its towering
skyscrapers, the erection of a modestly-sized greenhouse might
not appear worthy of much attention. But this small construction
site near the coast in Qatar's Mesaieed Industrial City could
help transform the landscape forever, says its developers,
turning desert land into flourishing centers of food and
freshwater production. The $5.3 million, one-hectare pilot plant
opens later this month and is a major milestone of the Sahara
Forest Project (SFP) -- a concept that has been developed by a
Norwegian company since 2008. The facility will feature a range
of green technologies including concentrated solar power (CSP),
photovoltaic panels and a seawater greenhouse that mimics the
hydrological cycle. Michael Pawlyn, a British architect
specializing in sustainable design and founding member of the
project, says bringing together clusters of synergistic
technologies creates a new paradigm. "At the