Changing the Climate of Architecture | Duncan Baker-Brown’s pitch for the RIBA Presidency | Futurebuild Industry Insider Newsletter 355
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After over 25 years campaigning for low carbon sustainable design in the construction sector, I believe that now is the time for our industry to collectively lobby government for the legislative changes required to meet our net zero carbon targets. Why now? Well put simply, we now know what to do and we are now all working together like never before. Our industry currently has, in effect, a consensus for a whole life carbon descent plan. We also have more than enough guides to low carbon design - although I am very excited about the soon to be published UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard which could be a game changer. What we don’t have is the legislation and financial incentives to encourage, nurture and crucially to sustain, say, a creative retrofit industry creating 100,000’s of new green jobs. Now is the time for collective action!
Episode 1 - Changing the Climate of Architecture
I'm thrilled to be the first guest on The Futurebuild Podcast! Join me & Martin Hurn, Futurebuild's Event Director, as I share my inspiring journey and vision for a greener architectural future, including my bid for RIBA president.
I've been on a mission to revolutionise how we design and build structures. From pivotal career moments to my unwavering passion for sustainability, I'll dive deep into the experiences that have shaped my approach.
But that's not all – I'll also discuss my bid to lead the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). I have big plans to transform this esteemed organisation, steering it towards a greener, more environmentally conscious path.
Whether you're an architect, sustainability advocate, or curious about architecture's future, this episode offers insights galore.
It's time to act now
I want to thank Futurebuild for giving me the opportunity to write an opinion piece. I’ve been a big fan of the event for 20 years and since 2013 my students, academic colleagues and practice have been involved with this important annual event. I say important, but I should also mention that it is impactful. Why? Well, it’s one of the only construction industry events that I know of that actively encourages students, consultants, industry leaders, contractors, clients, politicians and all parts of the construction industry supply chain to its three-day event – where participants can see innovative products and hear thought leaders from industry and academia discussing the most pressing topics in our industry. So yes, I am a fan.?
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I’m taking a stand for the creative retrofit of our existing built environment to meet net zero targets and to provide affordable, accessible and climate resilient built environment.?
The construction industry in the UK creates over 60% of waste flowing to landfill and incineration. If our government incentivises re-use and retrofit over demolition (as it currently does) we will create a national infrastructure project (retrofit) employing 10,000’s of people across the whole of the UK.?Here are a couple of books you might find helpful-
Duncan's sessions
I had an incredibly rewarding experience speaking at two compelling sessions during Futurebuild - the 'Masterclass: So, what's the big deal with the circular economy ?' and 'Ramping up Retrofit.' It was a fantastic opportunity to share my passion for sustainable architecture and discuss the pressing need for embracing a circular economy approach and retrofitting existing buildings. The engaging discussions and exchange of ideas with fellow industry professionals truly energised me, reinforcing my commitment to driving positive change in the built environment.
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