SUSTAINABILITY
Sustainability is the practice of using resources in a way that meets the
needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of
future generations to meet their needs.
Discussion Questions
WHY IS SUSTAINABILITY IMPORTANT?
WHAT ARE SOME EXAMPLES OF UNSUSTAINABLE PRACTICES?
HOW DO OUR ACTIONS IMPACT THE ENVIRONMENT, SOCIETY, AND THE
ECONOMY?
How can design contribute to
sustainability?
Designing products that use fewer resources and produce less waste.
Example: Tesla Electric Vehicles
Tesla designs electric vehicles (EVs) with an emphasis on energy
efficiency. Their electric motors are highly efficient, reducing the amount
of energy required to drive the vehicle. Additionally, Tesla uses
regenerative braking systems, which recapture and store energy that
would otherwise be wasted as heat. These design features make Tesla
EVs more resource-efficient and generate less waste compared to
traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
How can design contribute to
sustainability?
Incorporating recycled or repurposed materials in design.
Example: Patagonia's Recycled Polyester Clothing
Patagonia, an outdoor clothing company, incorporates recycled materials
into their clothing lines. They use recycled polyester, which is made from
post-consumer plastic bottles. By doing so, Patagonia reduces the need
for virgin polyester production, conserving resources and diverting plastic
waste from landfills. This sustainable design approach not only
minimizes environmental impact but also promotes the circular economy.
How can design contribute to
sustainability?
Creating energy-efficient and eco-friendly designs.
Example: The Bullitt Center, Seattle
The Bullitt Center, often referred to as the greenest commercial building
in the world, showcases eco-friendly design principles. It features
passive solar design, which maximizes natural lighting and reduces the
need for artificial lighting. The building also incorporates rainwater
harvesting, on-site wastewater treatment, and solar panels for energy
generation. Its efficient design enables it to produce more energy than it
consumes, making it a net-positive energy structure. This design
approach not only conserves resources but also minimizes its
environmental footprint.
The three pillars of sustainability:
Environmental, Social, and Economic