Sustainable Architecture: Facing Carbon Head-On in the Future
The concept of sustainability dates back to the 1970s when the energy crisis, uncontrolled pollution and environmentally damaging materials made the world realize we couldn’t depend on fossil fuels forever. Fortunately, new studies have unveiled the benefits of renewable resources, recycling existing materials and adopting sustainable practices to help turn things around, and in industries such as organic architecture, professionals of all stripes are trying to do their part to better the world.
According to Architecture 2030, members of the International Union of Architects (IUA) recently voted unanimously to adopt practices that will lead to the elimination of carbon dioxide emissions in the built environment by 2050. This is a huge leap forward for sustainable architecture.
The Importance of Sustainable Architecture
Without the efforts outlined in the 2050 Imperative established by the IUA, future generations and those already affected by extreme weather, natural disasters and poverty will be put at an even greater risk.
Currently, urban areas generate 70 percent of global CO2 emissions, a majority of which come from buildings. Sustainable architecture could put a huge dent in this figure over the next two decades by using recycled materials and best practices in their plans, as roughly 60 percent of the world’s buildings are built or rebuilt. With this in mind, the goal to reach zero CO2 emissions by 2050 might be possible.
How Sustainable Architecture Will Face Carbon Head-On in the Coming Years
How is a carbon-neutral urban environment even possible? It’s not practical everywhere, but under the 2050 Imperative, IUA members have pledged to advocate sustainable architecture in their communities and help develop tools that deliver low-cost onsite renewable energy systems. Specific examples that architects plan to utilize to achieve carbon-neutral cities, towns, urban areas and buildings, include:
- Passive heating and cooling
- Waste water storage
- Solar water heating
- Daylighting
- Natural ventilation systems
In order for the IUA’s goals to become a reality by 2050, a major transformation in the built environment is required. Gone are the days of fossil fuel reliance, while a new era of essentially zero carbon emissions will curb climate change and reduce this risk for future generations.
If you’re interested in working with a sustainable builder, view TMS Architect’ online portfolios to see how beautiful organic architecture can be both alluring for the eyes and good for the environment. Then, contact us to learn more.
