A skyscraper in Guiyang, China has attracted major controversy after a video was released of its 108 meter (350 feet) waterfall built into the facade. While the waterfall certainly looks spectacular and provides a dramatic addition to the metropolis, local residents have questioned the environmental impact of the water usage in a time where water scarcity and environmental awareness are hot topics.
The waterfall is one of the tallest artificial waterfalls in the world – and easily the highest in the city of Guiyang. Other waterfalls in the area include more traditional add-ons to rivers and local canal networks. According to the Times, when the waterfall was first switched on, a number of local residents called the newspapers to report a catastrophic water leak.
With an average cost $118 USD every hour, the ‘water feature’ is certainly not cheap. However, according to Kanka News, the building’s owners have responded by explaining that the water used is recycled rainwater and tap water. The owners also explained that the waterfall would only be used on special occasions.