AR 144 - Acoustics Bautista, Gwen Harriet R.

March 10, 2012 Reaction Paper

An Eye-Opener on Sustainable Design As designers, we should be aware that the force of nature is far more powerful than us. This idea has been highlighted during the symposium conducted by Arch. Guerrero during the Balangkasan. Earthquake, flood and typhoon are few of the phenomenon we experience many times a year due to our geographic conditions which means, it is a part of the natural cycle. It just becomes a disaster when people are affected and destroys their way of living. Most of the time, the reasons for disaster could be blamed on human decisions. On this aspect, the speaker gave a good point that everything should not be blamed to the government. Human survival has evolved from being independent to being dependent on the government. Humans had groups, then communities, then cities that offer them services that if there is a problem, they see the government. However, I do not see this as a difficulty but rather a challenge imposed for the architects of this generation. A creative mind of a designer is much more needed to have interesting solutions in these times. But ironically speaking, somehow we focus on making new ideas that we forget the basic and practical ways to avoid disaster. An idea would be people should avoid living on flood-risk areas, floodplains and such. These areas could be identified through use of maps and even modern software. Following the standards stated on the building code could also be another one. Sustainable design can also come in many forms. When designing, one should be aware of the sites physical features and climate of the region. The speaker also presented ideas on few of the vernacular designs from neighboring countries in Southeast Asia to make use wind, water and solar energy. Some of those mentioned were the stepped sewers in Hongkong because of its mountainous region, repetition and the wind scoopers installed on the roof ridge. However, some types, like the solar panels, is expensive to purchase. I just find it funny that what should be good for the planet is difficult to acquire compared to those environment-degrading products. But still, despite of these challenges, people should be vigilant on living the green way: simple, effective and non-degrading. Application of sustainable design will eventually have lesser demands on electricity. If thousands or even millions of households and structures can do this, we lessen our exhaustion to our natural resources and last longer for the next generation. For Philippines, we have not yet reached the peak of technological advancement. As we work, towards this goal, we should also give what is due for our environment because in the end it all returns to us. Sustainable design should be realized sooner here in the country, hopefully in the future in a more affordable purchase. Government officials are there to decide on laws to be passed. The essence of living is something to be worked for and not depended upon. Finally, seeing wind scoopers on houses here in Davao would not be so bad at all.