Beijing's largest park to open (3)

"Compared with artificial irrigation, the utilization efficiency is above 85 percent and uses more than 50 percent less water a year."

The expo park site used to be barren ground, covered with sparse vegetation.

Sun said the project returned lush greenery to the area and has brought economic benefit to a previously unused area of the capital.

"The expo has accelerated infrastructure construction, with Line 14 two years ahead of schedule," he said. "The roads around the park will also be put into operation early to provide convenient transportation options for residents."

While the expo will create jobs, it will also make room for polluting industries to move out of the city.

As part of the overall plan, the reconstructed area of Beijing Shougang No 1 Refractory Materials Factory, around the West Fifth Ring Road, will be rejuvenated with new office space, commercial units and high-end residences.

In addition, areas of the Beijing No 2 Machine Tool Works, covering an area of 50 hectares extending to the West Fifth Ring Road, will be improved through upgrades and reconstruction.

"What the expo will bring to the region and district is beyond measure," Hua said. "We're really looking forward to when it's up and running."

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