Structures: using and reusing the existing

In nature, there is no waste. The remains of one organism become the regenerative resource for the next. This principle used to apply to our built environment. Materials from the demolition of one building were reclaimed and used in the construction of the next, and a building was considered the most valuable when already invested materials and labour were retained in their current form.

Today’s linear system treats these investments in existing structures as a risk with a high cost, resulting in demolition as the simplest alternative. But what if the materials, design, engineering and construction work already invested into a building would be calculated as values lost if the building was demolished? If the cost for nature was also included?

Following the principle of “preserve or explain”, we must explore opportunities for transformation and adaptive reuse of existing buildings before even considering demolition.

Systems: challenging hierarchies of value

We have gradually devalued nature and removed it from the foundation of our decision-making, reducing it to externalities and unpriced consequences.

In the Western world, we have distanced ourselves from the negative repercussions of our overconsumption, hiding behind a bureaucratic system where responsibilities are dispersed into specialised areas where few have full responsibility.

Yet, a variety of exemplary initiatives are being realised at ground level in the systems under which we operate. If we are to have any hope of changing attitudes and reversing the negative effects of climate change, there is no doubt that a shift at the system level is needed.

Actions in ethics, law, economy and politics are crucial to put nature first in our decision-making. We must challenge and transform our broader systems and hierarchies of value that currently reinforce the status quo. It is a matter of values, and of behaviour. If the system is broken – fix it.