W08 Lecture Reflection

As I discussed in "W02 Reading Reflection: A History of Greenwashing", the idea of saying things are "green" or "sustainable, doesn't mean it actually is. As in this weeks lecture, the idea of "green buildings" were discussed. 

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The Green Roof

Though the statement is still novel, green roofs and walls in buildings are under increasing debate of their actual benefit to the sustainable footprint of structures on their environment. The fine line between benefit and aesthetic of "greening" buildings poses a contradictory element to sustainability. The energy and water consumption of green buildings may outweigh the long term benefits. Conversely, the integration of nature in to urban environments may have large social and emotional benefits for communities. 

Personally I like the aesthetic of green integration, especially the ability to make nature more accessible on a human scale. Where Botanic Gardens in cities may be a positive intervention in the grand concrete jungle of cities, the smaller scale plantings give a more personable ability to to feel like you don't just exist within the context of the built. Being able to see and feel the tangible nature of green spaces adds an extra dimension to the built environment that makes it more homely. 

Obviously, the context needs to be greatly considered before implementing green aesthetics, but under the appropriate circumstances, they can create a positive environment in an otherwise monotonous city. I believe despite sustainability being a large issue in today's world of depleting resources, elements of nature need to be integrated into our environment, even if they don't have "sustainable" elements. 

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Lecture Notes: