2/19/25 - Sustainability

Sustainability models:

• 3 pillars model

  • Economic prosperity, environmental protection, social justice

  • Comes from the triple bottom line

  • Framing the environment as important economically is motivating for many.

  • A foundation cannot stand without all 3 aspects.

• Nested dependencies model

  • Economy embedded in society which is embedded in the environment

  • We need to shift priorities to thinking about the environment more to be more prosperous in the long term.

  • 3 pillars model shows economy/society/environment separately while this model demonstrates that the environment is required for a thriving society and economy

    

• 2 pillars model

• Deep ecology platform

Biomimicry:

• An approach to innovation that seeks sustainable solutions to human challenges by emulating nature’s time-tested patterns and strategies

• Ex.

  • Whales: efficient wind turbines

  • Dolphins: underwater signals

  • Termite mounds: air cooling system of buildings

  • Prairies: resilient agricultural system

  • Mosquito: syringe needles

Living buildings:

• Aim to be self-sustaining in energy, water, and waste use.

• For certification: Net zero energy and water input/output for one year when fully occupied

• Strive to collect, recycle, and reuse wastewater on-site

Sustainable urban design:

• Mixed density

• Green space conservation

• Transportation

• Energy, water, waste

• Social sensibility

• Green buildings