Rachel Ravitch
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Q + A: How can we design a better future for the building industry?

“In the 1970s, Swedish eco-architect Bengt Warne built his radical Nature House. Essentially a conventional home wrapped within a greenhouse, the Nature House served not only as a testbed and research center, but a home where he and his family actually lived, warmed year-round by the sun.”

Q + A: How can we design a better future for the building industry?

by Rachel Ravitch

The building industry is one of the largest waste contributors of any industry, accounting for up to 40% of the world’s waste and consuming up to 40% of the world’s energy, while only providing 5-10% of employment and contributing only 10-15% of GDP.

The demolition of structures in the US accounts for 90% of the waste in the building industry. Many products used in the building industry are causing massive destruction to old growth forests around the world and are major contributors to greenhouse gasses. This is preventable and designers can contribute to creating a more sustainable building industry by refusing to participate in an unethical industry and by educating clients about how to make the most impact with thoughtful, intentional use of sustainable construction materials and methods. Waste from demolition and disposal of construction materials can be limited by preserving and retrofitting structures. Limiting soil disruption and planting trees helps keep our air and water systems clean.

In her TED Talk linked above, architect Julia Watson describes the role of the designer as researcher and educator. There are many methods that can be applied to create a habitable structure. It is the responsibility of designers to learn building methods and educate our clients and communities about how to achieve the best solution possible. Now, as always, the best solutions are those that put the future of the planet first. Without ecological health, there is no future for human habitation on this planet.