What Does It Mean?
In 1987 the United Nations defined sustainability as “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”. I find this simple and broad definition captures the heart of sustainability. On a more personal note, my drive and interest in sustainbility is predominantly focused on the preservation of the planet and its natural resources.
When it comes to the sustainable built environment there are a few aspects that I am looking to focus on, which includes:
- Preservation of land
- Limiting the use of non-renewable resources
- Maximizing the use of renewable energy
- Green space
What Inspirational Examples Can We Learn From?
Indigenous Cultures:
- Indigenous cultures have been living off the land and utilizing sustainable practices for countless generations
- Using their knowledge of the land its resources is an incredibly valuable source of information
WELL Certification:
- WELL is a certification focusing on advancing health and well-being in buildings
Living Building Challenge:
- Regenerative buildings that are self-sufficient and remain within the resource limits of their site.
- Create a positive impact on the human and natural systems that interact with them.
LEED Certification:
- LEED is the most widely used green building rating system in the world
- Used in any stage of the construction process, LEED provides a framework for healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving green buildings.
