Ecobuild seminars, sustainable by design

This seminar was about the effects of design in buildings and design issues to do with sustainability. This seminar took place first day at ecobuild between 10:40am to 12:30pm.

1. Sustainable design needs sustainable clients

Howard Fuller, Chair of Sustainability Panel, British Society of Interior Design and National Contracts Manager, Carron Phoenix Ltd

Sustainable clients are needed to build for tomorrow, source their building products in responsible way and utilise the most efficient building products. Role of water to the increasing world and saving all resources available and how can usage of water in UK new build can be halved from existing 160 litres per day [per person to 80 litres per day/per person. Some sustainable clients mentioned by Mr Fuller include Carron phoenix Ltd, Berkeley homes, Velux.

2. Sustainable design needs sustainable behaviour

Mat Hunter, Chief Design Officer, Design Council

Sustainable design needs sustainable behaviour and human issues are appears to be more resonant than environmental, all this is closely related to the 3P bottom line, planet, people and profit. Societal issues include the growing population that is becoming less healthy needs a greater support. People can change their behaviour to the way haw the design is challenged. Make designs and DIY simple and easier for people helps on changing their behaviour.

3. Eco design, behaviour and ‘eco-mentalism’

Aidan Walker, design commentator

This was one of the best presentation that needed a great consecration to understand and learn from it. Eco-mentalism is about behaviour, habit and power. The seven powers of Eco-mentalism include creativity, communication, passion, endurance, community, focus and nature.

‘Eco-Mentalism is not a state of mind where you knit your own muesli...Nor is it intended for Eco-Mentalists’

‘Don’t gain power. You already have it. Just open it up. Open up on it’.

‘Eco-Mentalism is a system of simple principles and practices to regain our natural powers; to

change our behaviour by changing ourselves. To balance our inner ecology, to live and thrive with grace, harmony and beauty.’

Aidan Walker