We, the architects, need to think about protecting ecosystems, biodiversity and natural habitat for a “sustainable” future. Starting from the design process, we should consider ecological sustainability as a design criterion in all production processes in every project, be user-oriented, respectful to the environment we live in, and take an approach aimed at improving the environment.
Role of the architect
The climate crisis is one of the most important problems of our time and it increases its influence day by day. Forest fires, flood disasters and drought in our country are perhaps just the beginning.
Unplanned urbanization, rapid population growth, destruction of natural resources, use of fossil fuels and environmental pollution reduce the areas where people can live in a healthy way. The increase in the effects of global climate change and the direct effects of environmental problems on people have increased the search for solutions.
We, the architects, need to think about protecting ecosystems, biodiversity and natural habitat for a “sustainable” future. Starting from the design process, we should consider ecological sustainability as a design criterion in all production processes in every project, be user-oriented, respectful to the environment we live in, and take an approach aimed at improving the environment. Architecturally, the buildings we design should be respectful to nature instead of turning into rent and money generating tools that serve investors. Awareness and consciousness associated with sustainability is a social transformation, a time-consuming process and a policy. In our country, legal regulations are required in this regard. We have to think about this awareness in an order where urbanization has become so aggressive. We should turn to more simple and plain solutions and plan a calm lifestyle and living spaces.
The importance of the concept of “green buildings”, which reduces the negative effects in its design, construction and operation, and creates positive effects on our climate and natural environment, becomes apparent. In green buildings, together with sustainable material choices, healthy building products with less impact on the environment are preferred.
For sustainable solutions, we should examine local architecture, understand the traditional architectural spirit while following contemporary developments, and be aware that the city is a living organism. We, the architects, should not only consider aesthetics in the design of new buildings and renovating of existing buildings, but also create sustainable solutions that are sensitive to the physical and social environment.