What is the Future of Sustainable Architecture?

 

I found Abalos’s “Aesthetics and Sustainability: Alternates” is an important resource in understanding the debate between the importance of sustainability and when it becomes nothing more than a checked box in the process of design. I do think unfortunately due to a lack of education some people get the wrong idea about sustainability. It is not uncommon that architectural projects implement sustainable practices as an afterthought. I think where we as architects have a responsibility is not just to blindly implement sustainable strategies, but rather, to educate clients as well as colleagues on true benefits to the environment in design. I think often clients see sustainability as a trade off for aesthetics, but it is possible for us as designers to create aesthetically pleasing buildings that can address key environmental issues. How do you all think it is possible for us to educate on this? Does it start within our industry, or should we be bringing clients into these conversations?