What Defines Sustainability?

     

    Abalos’ discussion of the North-South to West-East viewpoints of sustainability allows a more in-depth conversation about what sustainable design means and influences depending on the region an architect is practicing in. For some regions, local materials in economic preservation have naturally led to a sustainable building. In other regions, the word “sustainable” has hindered an open mind from adapting to such materials. Looking strictly at North America, the scaled difference in the use of sustainable design varies to such an extreme that it is evident when looking at a county difference. So, instead of pushing the agenda of an all sustainable, zero-carbon footprint, it is critical for the architect to be mindful of the context in which the building is being designed and built. This could be resources, even using a “crossbreeding” budget, upkeep by the client, and building longevity.

    Suppose the client is not fully committed to any upkeep necessary to keep the building running at the efficiency level the architect and other experts have planned. In that case, there is no reason to invest resources into such. If the building is of temporary status, the architect must question what will happen to the demolished parts of the building. Can it be assembled in a “cut and paste” fashion, where although it is not “sustainable” immediately, reuse is a long-term benefit for significant elements?