Why the Architecture 2030 Challenge Matters for Both New and Old Construction
Architecture 2030 aims to transform the built environment from being the major contributor of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to a solution to the climate crisis. Understanding this organization’s goals and why they’re important can help you make informed decisions when it comes to construction. Learn more about the Architecture 2030 Challenge below.
What is Architecture 2030?
Architecture 2030 aims to reduce global fossil fuel consumption and GHG emissions by changing the planning, design, and construction of cities, communities, infrastructure, and buildings. They also pursue the regional development of a built environment that can manage the impacts of climate change, preserve natural resources, and access low-cost renewable energy resources. This organization’s efforts began more than a decade ago, and today, they’re being recognized for implementing key strategies that contribute to the global sustainability movement.
What’s the Solution?
According to architecture2030.com, an area equal to 3.5 times the entire built environment of the US will be redesigned, reshaped, and rebuilt globally over the next 20 years. Traditional methods of construction are powered by electricity produced by burning fossil fuels, thus damaging the planet’s climate. Using energy-efficient design strategies and power from renewable resources during building design and construction can be a solution to the climate change crisis. Throughout the design process, strategies must utilize low-cost or no-cost sustainable and passive design. These methods can include reducing the energy the building requires by planning its orientation and incorporating daylighting and a passive heating and cooling strategy. This can provide fossil-fuel–free energy from on-site renewables or from accessing renewable energy produced off-site.
What Can You Do to Help?
Learning more about adopting the Architecture 2030 challenge can significantly help in achieving a solution to the climate change crisis. Those who work in the building sector have the power to make these changes that can have a significant impact in the global sustainability movement. One resource that will help the building sector understand the principles and actions to create low-carbon and adaptable built environments worldwide is the 2030 Palette. This is a guide to low carbon resilient design from the regional level down to individual building elements. The free online tool is a powerful catalyst for implementing the 2030 Challenge. An architect looking to improve low carbon design skills would benefit from the AIA+2030 Professional Development Series. A property owner, planner, local government policy maker, developer, or community stakeholder looking to meet the 2030 Challenge for Planning in your area, check out the 2030 Districts program. Scranton Produces uses sustainable materials for your restrooms, lockers, and other applications to allow you to support a healthier environment. Click here to find out where to buy Scranton Products.
