The creative path to a greener future
ViSualising sustainability
ViSualising sustainability
ViSualising sustainability
The creative path to a greener future
As we move i a world where environmental consciousness is paramount to our survival, and the future seems to be upon us faster than ever, the role of design in shaping a sustainable future has gained significant prominence. From consumer products to digital interfaces, the choices designers make have far-reaching consequences.
THE GLOBAL IMPERATIVE TO SUSTAINABLE DESIGN
Sustainability is a concept that is progressively being implemented into business strategies and various industries as a global imperative to ensure our future. In a design-specific context, designers can contribute to a sustainable future through the concept of the triple bottom line – People, Planet, Profit. It reminds designers that their decisions should not only consider economic profit but also the well-being of society and the environment. This holistic approach ensures that design choices have a positive impact on people's lives, safeguard the planet's resources, and, in the long run, can even enhance profitability through increased brand loyalty and social responsibility.
THE CURRENT LANDSCAPE OF SUSTAINABLE DESIGN
In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable design, numerous industries, including fashion, architecture, product design, and beyond, are witnessing exciting trends that reshape their past approaches to sustainable alternatives.
Fashion is seeing a shift in global attitudes away from fast fashion and towards circular fashion, leading to brands adopting practices such as upcycling and biodegradable materials. In architecture, biophilic design is gaining prominence, where structures are designed to harmonise with nature. Product design is embracing minimalist and modular concepts, focusing on longevity and adaptability to reduce waste.
"…for design to be sustainable, it has to be ephemeral. It must be able to be recycled; it must leave no trace…"
Current technology is continuously being developed to suit these purposes and enhance sustainable practice. From 3D printing enabling efficient use of materials to AI-driven simulations optimising building energy consumption, technology is providing innovative tools to minimise environmental impact. An important concept on sustainable design, spoken about by Kristian Bjornard, is that ‘Sustainable Design does not exist’ – for design to be sustainable, it has to be ephemeral. It must be able to be recycled; it must leave no trace.
As we move into a world where environmental consciousness is paramount to our survival, and the future seems to be upon us faster than ever, the role of design in shaping a sustainable future has gained significant prominence. From consumer products to digital interfaces, the choices designers make have far-reaching consequences.
THE GLOBAL IMPERATIVE TO SUSTAINABLE DESIGN
Sustainability is a concept that is progressively being implemented into business strategies and various industries as a global imperative to ensure our future. In a design-specific context, designers can contribute to a sustainable future through the concept of the triple bottom line – People, Planet, Profit. It reminds designers that their decisions should not only consider economic profit but also the well-being of society and the environment. This holistic approach ensures that design choices have a positive impact on people's lives, safeguard the planet's resources, and, in the long run, can even enhance profitability through increased brand loyalty and social responsibility.
THE CURRENT LANDSCAPE OF SUSTAINABLE DESIGN
In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable design, numerous industries, including fashion, architecture, product design, and beyond, are witnessing exciting trends that reshape their past approaches to sustainable alternatives.
Fashion is seeing a shift in global attitudes away from fast fashion and towards circular fashion, leading to brands adopting practices such as upcycling and biodegradable materials. In architecture, biophilic design is gaining prominence, where structures are designed to harmonise with nature. Product design is embracing minimalist and modular concepts, focusing on longevity and adaptability to reduce waste.
"…for design to be sustainable, it has to be ephemeral. It must be able to be recycled; it must leave no trace…"
Current technology is continuously being developed to suit these purposes and enhance sustainable practice. From 3D printing enabling efficient use of materials to AI-driven simulations optimising building energy consumption, technology is providing innovative tools to minimise environmental impact. An important concept on sustainable design, spoken about by Kristian Bjornard, is that ‘Sustainable Design does not exist’ – for design to be sustainable, it has to be ephemeral. It must be able to be recycled; it must leave no trace.
EDUCATING TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE FUTURES
Integral to the development of technologies in sustainable design and the awareness of our impact as designers is the integration of ‘green’ ideologies into education. At UniSC, sustainable design is not just a concept; it's a curriculum cornerstone. The university has woven sustainability into its design programs, ensuring that students receive comprehensive training in eco-conscious design principles. In these programs, some of which are featured in this edition of Delve, students are encouraged to think about, discuss, and explore eco-conscious frameworks of design, sustainable development, and current discourse and initiatives.
Moreover, UniSC fosters a culture of research and innovation in sustainable design, actively encouraging faculty and students to explore new frontiers in environmentally responsible design practices. The campus itself serves as a testament to sustainable design, with numerous eco-initiatives, such as utilising power sources that produce clean energy and recycled water. The campuses act as an example and inspiration to students wanting to engage sustainably with the world in their daily lives and careers.
Guest lectures by industry experts and sustainability champions further enrich students' perspectives, exposing them to real-world insights. In conjunction, student projects and campaigns are vital components of the university's sustainability ethos. These initiatives empower students to apply their knowledge practically, creating solutions for sustainability challenges both on and off-campus.
It is UniSC's holistic approach to sustainable design education that ensures that its graduates are equipped not only with the skills but also the passion to drive positive change in the world of design.
EMPOWERING DESIGNERS AS CHANGE AGENTS
Designers wield immense power as catalysts for positive change, especially in the context of promoting sustainable practices. Their creative influence extends far beyond aesthetics; it shapes how we interact with products, spaces, and information. Recognizing this pivotal role, it is crucial to empower designers to embrace sustainability as a central tenet of their work.
Designing sustainably begins with research and, importantly, empathy for who and what you are designing for – whether this be for a community or a larger ecosystem. Sustainable and biodegradable materials are imperative to eco-conscious design, recycling where possible, energy efficiency and durability. Most importantly, is to stay informed and continue to learn. As our world evolves at a rapid pace, we must continue to update our knowledge on current discoveries and discourses.
As we move into a world where environmental consciousness is paramount to our survival, and the future seems to be upon us faster than ever, the role of design in shaping a sustainable future has gained significant prominence. From consumer products to digital interfaces, the choices designers make have far-reaching consequences.
THE GLOBAL IMPERATIVE TO SUSTAINABLE DESIGN
Sustainability is a concept that is progressively being implemented into business strategies and various industries as a global imperative to ensure our future. In a design-specific context, designers can contribute to a sustainable future through the concept of the triple bottom line – People, Planet, Profit. It reminds designers that their decisions should not only consider economic profit but also the well-being of society and the environment. This holistic approach ensures that design choices have a positive impact on people's lives, safeguard the planet's resources, and, in the long run, can even enhance profitability through increased brand loyalty and social responsibility.
THE CURRENT LANDSCAPE OF SUSTAINABLE DESIGN
In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable design, numerous industries, including fashion, architecture, product design, and beyond, are witnessing exciting trends that reshape their past approaches to sustainable alternatives.
Fashion is seeing a shift in global attitudes away from fast fashion and towards circular fashion, leading to brands adopting practices such as upcycling and biodegradable materials. In architecture, biophilic design is gaining prominence, where structures are designed to harmonise with nature. Product design is embracing minimalist and modular concepts, focusing on longevity and adaptability to reduce waste.
"…for design to be sustainable, it has to be ephemeral. It must be able to be recycled; it must leave no trace…"
Current technology is continuously being developed to suit these purposes and enhance sustainable practice. From 3D printing enabling efficient use of materials to AI-driven simulations optimising building energy consumption, technology is providing innovative tools to minimise environmental impact. An important concept on sustainable design, spoken about by Kristian Bjornard, is that ‘Sustainable Design does not exist’ – for design to be sustainable, it has to be ephemeral. It must be able to be recycled; it must leave no trace.
Moreover, collaboration and knowledge-sharing are potent tools in the designer's arsenal. By fostering an environment where ideas flow freely, experiences are shared, and collective wisdom is tapped into, designers can magnify their impact exponentially.
It is not just an opportunity but a responsibility for designers to champion sustainability, to harness their creativity not only for innovation but also for the betterment of the planet and society. In doing so, they become the vanguards of change, leading the way towards a more sustainable and harmonious future through the power of design.
Moreover, collaboration and knowledge-sharing are potent tools in the designer's arsenal. By fostering an environment where ideas flow freely, experiences are shared, and collective wisdom is tapped into, designers can magnify their impact exponentially.
It is not just an opportunity but a responsibility for designers to champion sustainability, to harness their creativity not only for innovation but also for the betterment of the planet and society. In doing so, they become the vanguards of change, leading the way towards a more sustainable and harmonious future through the power of design.
EDUCATING TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE FUTURES
Integral to the development of technologies in sustainable design and the awareness of our impact as designers is the integration of ‘green’ ideologies into education. At UniSC, sustainable design is not just a concept; it's a curriculum cornerstone. The university has woven sustainability into its design programs, ensuring that students receive comprehensive training in eco-conscious design principles. In these programs, some of which are featured in this edition of Delve, students are encouraged to think about, discuss, and explore eco-conscious frameworks of design, sustainable development, and current discourse and initiatives.
Moreover, UniSC fosters a culture of research and innovation in sustainable design, actively encouraging faculty and students to explore new frontiers in environmentally responsible design practices. The campus itself serves as a testament to sustainable design, with numerous eco-initiatives, such as utilising power sources that produce clean energy and recycled water. The campuses act as an example and inspiration to students wanting to engage sustainably with the world in their daily lives and careers.
Guest lectures by industry experts and sustainability champions further enrich students' perspectives, exposing them to real-world insights. In conjunction, student projects and campaigns are vital components of the university's sustainability ethos. These initiatives empower students to apply their knowledge practically, creating solutions for sustainability challenges both on and off-campus.
It is UniSC's holistic approach to sustainable design education that ensures that its graduates are equipped not only with the skills but also the passion to drive positive change in the world of design.
EMPOWERING DESIGNERS AS CHANGE AGENTS
Designers wield immense power as catalysts for positive change, especially in the context of promoting sustainable practices. Their creative influence extends far beyond aesthetics; it shapes how we interact with products, spaces, and information. Recognizing this pivotal role, it is crucial to empower designers to embrace sustainability as a central tenet of their work.
Designing sustainably begins with research and, importantly, empathy for who and what you are designing for – whether this be for a community or a larger ecosystem. Sustainable and biodegradable materials are imperative to eco-conscious design, recycling where possible, energy efficiency and durability. Most importantly, is to stay informed and continue to learn. As our world evolves at a rapid pace, we must continue to update our knowledge on current discoveries and discourses.
Moreover, collaboration and knowledge-sharing are potent tools in the designer's arsenal. By fostering an environment where ideas flow freely, experiences are shared, and collective wisdom is tapped into, designers can magnify their impact exponentially.
It is not just an opportunity but a responsibility for designers to champion sustainability, to harness their creativity not only for innovation but also for the betterment of the planet and society. In doing so, they become the vanguards of change, leading the way towards a more sustainable and harmonious future through the power of design.
Moreover, collaboration and knowledge-sharing are potent tools in the designer's arsenal. By fostering an environment where ideas flow freely, experiences are shared, and collective wisdom is tapped into, designers can magnify their impact exponentially.
It is not just an opportunity but a responsibility for designers to champion sustainability, to harness their creativity not only for innovation but also for the betterment of the planet and society. In doing so, they become the vanguards of change, leading the way towards a more sustainable and harmonious future through the power of design.
13.10.23
13.10.23
Wesley Carlyon
Wesley Carlyon
written by
written by
