ABSTRACT
The previous chapters form a background for a discussion on the new design concepts, standards and methods that the next few chapters explore. We have said that, in the context of the increasing rates of resource depletion and degradation, the built environment must do more than reverse the negative impacts of future land use and development. What are currently regarded as ‘ecological’ design goals, criteria and concepts are not geared towards improving whole systems health, only reducing collateral damage. Consequently, our design processes have not evolved to foster the creativity and imagination required for true sustainability. An entirely new standard is required:
It is not enough to re-design products or buildings. Every new design should contribute to the conversion of the industrial system in which it is embedded (eg construction, farming or forestry). Each design can leverage system-wide changes aimed towards true zero waste.
It is not enough to eliminate waste and toxins. Each design should help to reduce the total flow of materials and energy throughout development. The built environment can be converted to a living landscape that restores, detoxifies and expands the ecological base.
It is not enough to restore environmental quality. A design could expand usable public urban open space, contact with nature, food production, resource security, biodiversity, and ecosystem goods and services. In other words, it can add value to the public estate.
It is not enough to make incremental improvements that slow the accelerating spiral towards ecosystem collapse. Development can be adaptable, reversible, and provide future generations with an expanded range of substantive life choices and future social options.
