Episode 14: Should Architecture Schools Teach Ecology? [Podcast]

Ecology is the study of natural systems and how organisms relate to their physical surroundings. So what the heck does that have to do with architecture and why should I care? Eric and I discuss what exactly ecology is and the benefits of teaching it in architecture school. We also discuss how it is a basic fundamental understanding of the way nature works and why it is beneficial to architects to better understand the core principles. Listen to the Audio Watch the Video  NCARB News In this week’s NCARB news, we talk about NCARBs vision of integrating academic, IDP and access to the ARE divisions within the framework of an accredited degree program. The article is called “Over 30 Accredited Architectural Schools Indicate Interest in NCARB Proposal for Integrated Path to Licensure Initiative”, be sure to check it out! Things discussed in this episode What is ecology? Impact of buildings on the environment Architects in a real position to do something about this impact But basic principles are new or unknown to young architects In addition, older firm principals aren’t as interested or inspired to change later in their career typically, it’s the IDP crowd at the firm which is is pushing their principals to do more with green building (LEED and LBC examples) So it falls on the schools to give a basic and fundamental understanding of topics such as: 1. Life Cycle Assessment Where did this material come from? What are the by-products of its’ manufacturer? How is the material delivered and installed? How is the material maintained & operated? How healthy are the materials? What do we do with them once we are done with these materials? 2. Whole Systems Thinking VIDEO:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L06ZgG0FV4c 3. Carbon Emissions and Climate Change 4. Sustainable Site Planning and minimizing impacts 5. Biomimicry link to Janine Benyus book Janine Benyus: Biomimicry in actionhttp://www.ted.com/talks/lang/en/janine_benyus_biomimicry_in_action.html 6. Permaculture Bill Mollison book: Check out the book! Video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8slFPXkfOFw Earthships:  Michael Reynolds in Taos, New Mexico: Check out the book! Advice: Create a list of no-brainers for your projects (PDF from organicARCHITECT) Incorporating these ideas into your office (PDF from organicARCHITECT) Please Subscribe Receive automatic updates when you subscribe below! Please rate us on iTunes! If you enjoyed the show, please rate it on iTunes and write a review. It would really help us spread the word about the ARE Podcast. Thanks!