How can you avoid common misconceptions and myths about sustainable and resilient structures?

1 Myth 1: Sustainable and resilient structures are expensive and complicated

One of the most prevalent myths is that sustainable and resilient structures require a lot of additional costs, resources, and technical expertise. This is not necessarily true, as there are many ways to achieve sustainability and resilience without compromising on functionality, aesthetics, or budget. For example, you can use locally available and recycled materials, optimize the use of natural light and ventilation, incorporate passive design strategies, and apply simple yet effective structural systems. These measures can not only reduce the environmental footprint, but also lower the maintenance and operational costs, improve the indoor comfort and health, and increase the durability and adaptability of the structures.

2 Myth 2: Sustainable and resilient structures are one-size-fits-all solutions

Another common myth is that sustainable and resilient structures are based on a universal set of standards and criteria that apply to all contexts and conditions. This is not the case, as sustainability and resilience are context-specific and depend on various factors, such as the location, climate, culture, function, and user needs of the structures. Therefore, you need to tailor your design solutions to the specific characteristics and challenges of each project, rather than relying on generic or prescriptive guidelines. For example, you need to consider the local hazards, vulnerabilities, and capacities of the structures, as well as the social, economic, and environmental aspects of the surrounding community.

3 Myth 3: Sustainable and resilient structures are only for new buildings

A third myth is that sustainable and resilient structures are only relevant for new construction projects, and that existing buildings cannot be improved or retrofitted. This is not true, as there are many opportunities and benefits to enhance the sustainability and resilience of existing buildings, especially in urban areas where most of the built environment is already established. For example, you can implement energy efficiency measures, such as insulation, lighting, and HVAC upgrades, to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions and operational costs of the buildings. You can also strengthen the structural elements, such as columns, beams, and foundations, to improve the seismic performance and safety of the buildings. These interventions can extend the lifespan and functionality of the buildings, as well as increase their value and attractiveness.

4 Myth 4: Sustainable and resilient structures are only for green buildings

A fourth myth is that sustainable and resilient structures are synonymous with green buildings, and that they only focus on environmental aspects, such as energy, water, and waste. This is not accurate, as sustainability and resilience are broader and more comprehensive concepts that encompass not only environmental, but also social and economic dimensions. For example, sustainable and resilient structures also aim to improve the quality of life, well-being, and equity of the occupants and users, as well as to support the local development, innovation, and diversity of the communities. Therefore, you need to adopt a multidisciplinary and integrative approach to your design process, and to engage with various stakeholders, such as clients, users, authorities, and experts, to ensure that your structures meet the current and future needs and aspirations of the society.

5 Myth 5: Sustainable and resilient structures are static and fixed

A fifth myth is that sustainable and resilient structures are rigid and inflexible, and that they cannot adapt or respond to changing conditions or demands. This is not correct, as sustainability and resilience imply the ability to cope with uncertainty, variability, and complexity, and to evolve and transform over time. For example, sustainable and resilient structures can incorporate modular, prefabricated, or movable components, that allow for easy assembly, disassembly, or reconfiguration, to suit different functions, users, or scenarios. They can also employ smart, adaptive, or interactive technologies, such as sensors, actuators, or feedback systems, that enable the structures to monitor, adjust, or optimize their performance, behavior, or appearance, according to the environmental or human inputs.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?