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The present state of architecture and development continues to perpetuate the inward spiral of high levels of resource consumption, pollution and wastefulness that have characterized the 20th century. At this present moment in history, humankind has the ability to affect the environment on an unprecedented level. The urgency exists for all to realize that, if we are not part of the solution, then we are part of the problem.

 

One of the biggest stumbling blocks with Green Design is our present state of ‘disconnectedness’ from the environment. We are now able to carry out a multitude of tasks from switching on a light bulb to flushing a toilet without ever directly seeing their environmental consequences. Furthermore our present capitalist system encourages the over consumption of resources in its haste to turn short-term profits. Our present attitudes to the use and ownership of land are such that the “owner” feels he or she has all the rights. Thus the land is often torn apart and bled to waste in the short-term interests of private profit.

 

It is primarily this blindness, coupled with self-interest that is intricately connected to our present state of wastefulness, diminishing resources, and accumulating levels of pollution. Attitudes and laws need to change, so as to foster an attitude of stewardship over and above the ownership of land. We need to see ourselves as partners with the land rather than it’s dictators. In order to do this; development must begin by reflecting on the totality of its effects throughout it’s various life cycles. Furthermore, government statutory structures need to think beyond the ability to generate profit and establish mechanisms to better help tie capital to promoting sustainable development. This is possible with such things as tax incentives, disincentives and interest free loans. While this may be beyond many of us, one of the keys for architects and designers to bear in mind is to favour labour-based processes over the industrial ones, which rely on high levels of mechanization and pollution.

 

Some may say that it is only possible to achieve a truly holistic approach to design and construction once the whole of society has moved in that direction. However, it is vitally important to realize that Green Architecture can show a vision, and become an inspiration for what such a society may entail. In trying to move construction to work with the forces of nature, a far greater equity will be possible within society. This will lead to fairer access to resources, better health, improved productivity levels, and decreased running costs, and increased property values, while ensuring that resources and planetary systems are protected for future generations to come.