SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

The definition of sustainable development is generally accepted as development that does not adversely affect the environment for future generations. This simple statement has enormous implications for the way that we currently plan a wide range of activities, from economic development through to building. Of course all development affects the environment and taken to extreme it could be used as an argument to prevent any development. However this in itself is not sustainable. All life attempts to manipulate its’ environment in order to survive. Mankind has been particularly successful at this but needs to develop in order to sustain the lifestyle and aspirations of its ever increasing population. The issue is that this development is now causing global changes to climate that could drastically challenge our ability to survive.

Historical building techniques always tended to be sympathetic with their environment however since industrialisation this has all changed. Cheap and accessible fossil fuels have led to the wasteful and highly polluting exploitation of energy. The introduction of new materials has been accompanied by increasing quantities of toxic waste. The durable has been replaced by the disposable. The building industry is now responsible for 50% of the CO₂ pollution generated in the UK.

HOW CAN ARCHITECTS HELP?

Architects have a major role to play in addressing this issue. Their training and design skills enable them to source and integrate into a project the most appropriate aspects of environmental technology and ecologically sound building. By considering at the initial stages the location and aspect of a building they can harness the natural energy of the sun and protect from the chill of the wind. By sourcing local materials they can reduce the environmental cost of transportation. Careful specification can avoid the use of materials that are damaging to the environment whether through the extraction of the raw material or the production process. Naturally durable materials can reduce maintenance costs. High levels of insulation, air tight construction, natural ventilation and good daylighting can all reduce running costs. There are economic as well as environmental benefits to be achieved.

There are also less tangible benefits related to sustainable design. Anecdotal evidence suggests people respond more positively to green buildings. This may be a sympathetic response to the environmental concerns expressed in a design. It may even be that natural materials produce less allergic reactions and help avoid so-called sick building syndrome.

There is not only a moral issue but also increasingly a legal obligation to reduce our impact on the environment. Cutting CO₂ emissions is a key objective and reducing energy consumption will play a major part in achieving this. The strategy is two pronged. Reduce energy consumption in the construction and running of buildings. Use natural and renewable energy sources wherever possible.

Global warming is a reality. Our contribution to this through environmental damage and pollution seems inescapable. It is clear, if we are to reverse or even just slow down this phenomenon, sustainable development is no longer an optional feature but a requirement in all future building projects.