Boosting ESG aspect in architecture – The new norm
Ar. Hardik Pandit, Director, APICES Studio
In an age defined by heightened environmental consciousness and an unyielding call for social responsibility, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles have surged beyond the boardrooms and into the very core of architecture. The indomitable relevance of ESG in the architectural realm is unequivocal, marking a seismic shift in our design philosophy concerning the built environment. This shift underscores an unwavering commitment to sustainable practices, social well-being, and governance principles that dovetail seamlessly with the worldwide endeavour to confront climate change, address societal imperatives, and uphold principles of good governance.
Sustainable architecture is not merely a passing trend; it's a steadily advancing force that has gained remarkable traction in recent decades. It serves as a resounding testament to the architectural community's acknowledgement of its pivotal role in facilitating the environmental impact of the structures we build. The genesis of this movement can be traced back to the transformative years of the 1960s and 70s when architectural luminaries passionately championed ecological design principles, instilling an enduring eco-friendly ethos into the field.
The journey from those formative years to the present has been marked by substantial milestones and groundbreaking projects that have unreservedly reshaped the architectural terrain. Contemporary designs have pushed the boundaries and rewritten architectural norms by seamlessly integrating sustainable design principles into their endeavours. These pioneering architects have seamlessly woven passive solar design, rainwater harvesting, and natural ventilation into their creations. They aim to diminish environmental footprints and amplify energy efficiency. Their indomitable contributions serve as the cornerstone upon which the implementation of ESG principles in architecture now stand.
In the current landscape of sustainable architecture, the industry's unwavering dedication to ESG principles is vividly evident. Certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) have solidified their positions as the preferred global standards for assessing a building's sustainability. Architects are honing their focus on energy-efficient designs, leveraging cutting-edge smart technologies to curtail energy consumption, and judiciously selecting eco-friendly materials to minimise waste and emissions. These dynamic trends, coupled with an escalating emphasis on renewable energy sources and green building technologies, have propelled the environmental facet of ESG in architecture to new heights.
The social dimension within ESG holds an equally pivotal role in architecture. With architecture wielding an immense influence over how societies experience, live, work, and interact with their surroundings, our solemn responsibility as architects is to ensure that our designs transcend bricks and mortar. Our plans must contribute actively to social well-being and inclusivity. Notably, we witness a surge in projects that place community engagement and social sustainability at their core. Take, for instance, the High Line in New York City, a transformative project by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, which breathed life into an abandoned rail line, birthing a vibrant public space that nurtured a sense of community and ushered in urban renewal.
In the realm of governance, regulations and policies are the bedrock upon which ESG principles in architecture can thrive. Governments around the globe are taking robust steps towards championing sustainable architecture, implementing a plethora of incentives and mandates. Tax benefits, streamlined permitting processes, and meticulous revisions of building codes are potent tools for governments aiming to catalyse change within the industry. These policies not only embolden architects to adopt sustainable practices but also level up the play for those steadfast in their commitment to ESG principles.
Yet, architects encounter familiar challenges as they navigate implementing ESG principles. Cost considerations, accompanied by the misperception that sustainable design is prohibitively expensive, pose formidable barriers. To overcome these hurdles, architects must focus on the enduring advantages of sustainability, encompassing reduced operational costs and augmented property values. Moreover, an unyielding commitment to education and awareness is pivotal to underscore sustainable architecture as an investment in our collective future.
The horizon for ESG in architecture beckons with a tempting array of possibilities. Emerging technologies, encompassing advanced building materials, green infrastructure, and state-of-the-art digital design tools, are poised to transform the industry. Artificial intelligence, for example, promises to optimise building energy performance, while the advent of 3D printing holds the potential to revolutionise construction, curtailing material waste. These innovations will serve as formidable pillars bolstering the ESG facet in architecture, steering the industry towards a more sustainable and socially responsible future.
In conclusion, ESG is not merely an option but a fundamental architectural norm. It's a clear call to action, underscoring our collective obligation as architects to design with an unwavering environmental conscience society, and uphold governance that champion the greater good. The exemplary architectural practices, the ongoing trends, and the looming innovations all signify that ESG principles are not a passing fancy; they're here to stay. As a responsible practice, our mission is to embrace these principles wholeheartedly and, in doing so, contribute to a world where our built environment stands as a steadfast symbol of sustainability with unwavering social responsibility.
