Sustainable Architecture Explained
Sustainable architecture seeks to reduce hazardous environmental impact. Factors that can affect the construction of this architecture may vary. Indeed, these factors include the materials used, the amount of greenhouse emissions, and landscape. Also, a concern is the use of eco- friendly materials within the vicinity of that area.
Our Social Responsibility
Imagine a scenario in which you are assembling a piece of architecture. Now, you need to bring lumber from Northwest California to Southern California. You would assume that transportation costs would be expensive, right?
Meanwhile, imagine if you used local materials. Undeniably, this would help contribute to a responsible and sustainable building. Of course, this is one small example. But, there is a tremendous list of criteria needed for the protection of our environment. Unquestionably, sustainable architecture may be more expensive in the present. Surely, we owe it to our Mother Earth.
Protecting the Environment
As an aviator, I am able to see our world from a view that most people don’t. This view allows me to see how fragile our world is. A couple of weeks ago, I flew through Northern California and Clearlake Oaks. These were areas where fires consumed a tremendous amount of acreage.
The only word to describe this view is “Armageddon”. The aftermath was awful. Acres of destroyed land. It made me wonder, how much vegetation did the fire consume? Animals depend on a vegetated environment to survive. Obviously, preserving our environment through sustainable architecture is the logical choice. Moreover, I hope that many more people will learn to appreciate that.
Weighing the Benefits vs. the Cons
What a client must keep in mind about sustainable architecture is that:
- On average, it will take much longer to design,
- It will take more time to build, and
- It will be more expensive.
But the commitment is worthwhile. Also, our world is worthwhile. Above all, your health is worthwhile. Obviously, occupants would have more appreciation for the structure if they lived there.
Meanwhile, compare it to having homegrown food. I was in Italy last year and one thing that stood out to me was how healthy people looked. Unlike Americans, they weren’t obese. It’s ironic because they eat lots of pasta! I couldn’t help but wonder how they keep their weight down. To explain, they told me it’s because they intake products that are less processed. In the United States, we use a lot of processed food, which is very unhealthy.
I’m a firm believer that sustainable architecture is like this scenario. Accordingly, to design and construct sustainable buildings, we must look for healthier alternatives. Not only will this contribute to their health and comfort. It will also extend lives.
