Radical Environmentalism: Sustainability, Ecology, and Politics in Action

Sustainability has always been a core part of my ethos, both as an architect and as someone who deeply appreciates nature. From the beginning of my career, I’ve been drawn to holistic design principles that honor the environment, inspired by the belief that our built environment should coexist harmoniously with the natural world. This belief has only strengthened over time, especially as I’ve witnessed the growing threats to our planet’s ecosystems. Whether it’s the architecture I design or the landscapes I cherish, the need for sustainable practices is more pressing than ever.

Recently, I've been traveling to Serbia and Croatia and have enjoyed being immersed?in the beautiful landscapes of my home country and back in Los Angeles I enjoy living at the foothills of Santa Monica Mountains national park, a surprisingly wild place in the midst of a ginormous metropolitan area. However, both of these disparate and beautiful places have one thing in common. Our environment is under siege. From the lithium mining crisis in Serbia, which threatens entire ecosystems, to the polluted beaches in Los Angeles, the impact is undeniable. As architects, designers, and HUMANS, we must hold our leaders accountable and make conscious choices to protect our planet. Every decision we make shapes our future—let's ensure it's a sustainable one.

The Lithium Mining Controversy in Serbia

Serbia has found itself in the throes of a major ecological and political crisis due to the aggressive pursuit of lithium mining in the Jadar region. This project, which threatens to destroy rich ecosystems for lithium extraction essential for electric vehicle batteries, has sparked massive nationwide demonstrations. The local and national outrage has put the government under intense scrutiny, revealing layers of corruption associated with the mining approval processes. The situation has escalated to the point where protestors are being arrested, signaling a significant upheaval as the movement spreads across the nation. This is not merely a local issue but a glaring example of how environmental neglect can provoke a profound public response, demanding accountability and sustainable practices.

Environmental Concerns in Los Angeles

Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, environmental degradation continues at an alarming rate. The beaches, a natural treasure of the city, have frequently been rendered inaccessible due to contamination from raw sewage spills. In 2022 alone, L.A. County reported 95 sewage spills, totaling 330,396 gallons—a sharp decline from the 20 million gallons spilled the previous year, yet still significant. Moreover, the Port of Los Angeles is currently facing a federal lawsuit for discharging toxic pollutants into San Pedro Bay. Additionally, three years after a massive spill at a Los Angeles wastewater facility sent millions of gallons of sewage into Santa Monica Bay, the city has been compelled by federal prosecutors to invest over $20 million in facility improvements. These incidents highlight a recurring theme of infrastructural FAILURE and a critical need for enhanced oversight and maintenance.

Global Citizenship and Human Rights

Our role as architects and designers extends beyond creating aesthetically pleasing and functional spaces; it involves advocating for and implementing sustainable solutions at every scale of our work. The crises in Serbia and Los Angeles serve as stark reminders of the consequences of neglecting this responsibility. As professionals vested in the built environment, we must leverage our influence to promote designs and policies that prioritize sustainability and resilience.

Moreover, as consumers and citizens, we wield significant power to influence market trends and policy directions through our choices and advocacy. The demand for greater transparency, accountability, and environmental stewardship must resonate through our buying patterns and civic engagement. It is imperative that we champion a more radical form of environmentalism—one that does not shy away from challenging the status quo and demanding substantial changes in how resources are managed and preserved. Ensuring the health and sustainability of our environment is not only a consumer choice but a fundamental citizen and human right. We must recognize our responsibility to demand environments that sustain life and uphold the dignity of all communities.

Bridging the Gap: Accountability and Action

The need for a holistic approach to sustainability has never been more apparent. The environmental crises in Serbia and Los Angeles underscore the urgent need for systemic change that spans from local governance to global environmental policies. Our politicians and leaders must be held to a higher standard of accountability, ensuring that environmental justice is not just a concept but a practice.

Here are a few actionable steps we can take:

1. Demand Stringent Regulations: Advocate for stricter environmental regulations that enforce sustainable mining practices and pollution control.
2. Support Grassroots Movements: Engage with and support local and international environmental movements that aim to hold corporations and governments accountable.
3. Promote Sustainable Practices: Integrate sustainable materials and practices into our architectural designs and push for policies that support sustainable urban planning.
4. Educate and Mobilize: Use our platforms to educate the public about environmental issues and mobilize them to take action.

In conclusion, the fight for a sustainable future is interlinked with our professional practices and daily decisions. From the mines of Serbia to the shores of Los Angeles, each action we take can contribute to a larger change. As architects, designers, and global citizens, it’s our duty to ensure that our legacy is one of resilience, sustainability, and respect for the natural world. Together, through informed choices and proactive engagement, we can forge a path towards a more sustainable and just planet.