green design

Norman Foster is a well-known British Architect that has helped build plenty of structures throughout the world, including Wembley Stadium, Hearst Tower, and plenty of others throughout his career of four decades. Efficient and green, his buildings are easily recognizable throughout various countries of the world.

In this TED Talk, he reveals how computers can assist in the building of "green" and nearly pollution-free buildings during the DLD Conference 2007 in Munich.

Watch this TED Video in which Foster explains more:

I have to say, when I read this headline I was so excited that architects and designers are increasingly incorporating green design into their work. I thought, "What better example of someone living a conscious lifestyle? These eco-friendly professionals are applying their values to their trade. I love it!"

Then I read on..."70 percent of architects say client demand is the leading driver of green building." Ok, so their clients are environmentalists. That's great. They're demanding that their money is going towards buildings that have lower carbon emissions. So these clients are living conscious lifestyles.

Finally, my naivete was exposed: "The primary reason these owners and developers are demanding greener buildings is for reduced operating costs." The mighty dollar wins again!

Let's be honest, the moral argument doesn't work with everyone. Sometimes you have to get down to the dollars and cents. It's unfortunate, but guess what? It's reality. And the fact that we can say green design (and a host of other things) is not only better for the environment, but also better for the bottom line only strengthens our work.

Social entrepreneurship is all about problem solving. And problem solving requires creativity and flexibility. As we move into a new year, it is important to go back to the drawing board and re-familiarize ourselves with our goals, identify barriers to success, and then design strategies that overcome those obstacles.

So enjoy this break, relax, and get excited to accomplish your goals for 2008.

Read more about the rise of green design at ENN.com

Image from greenbuildingblocks.com.

The New York Times features what's next in green design.

Check out this photoessay and be inspired to integrate - or create - similar innovations for your campus.

Renewable Resources

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