There are so many initiatives out there for environmental sustainability, but they don’t work unless they are economically viable, unless they are socially and culturally acceptable, and unless they can be effectively managed to obtain maximum benefit. Only by conceiving of solutions in this manner can we ensure their adoption, longevity and long-term benefit is realised.

Humans evolved in response to our natural habitat. However, today we spend the majority of our time in a built environment. At studio3eight we look to increase the opportunity for health and wellbeing through considered interventions in our designs, allowing nature-based solutions to enhance the environments we inhabit.

The built environment is estimated to make up approximately 40% of carbon emissions worldwide, therefore it must be part of the solution if wide ranging net-zero targets are to be met, as per the Paris Agreement. For studio3eight, this means closer collaboration with our engineering design partners to create a ‘cradle to grave’ response. We target low carbon construction, operational net zero via energy generation and longer lasting buildings that can also be re-purposed, thus minimising the impact of replacement and reconstruction.

All the best initiatives in the world require adoption to see them truly succeed. Designing sustainably is only part of the equation. Our work must, at all scales, captivate people in such a way that not only do they have the opportunity to live a more sustainable lifestyle, but the options we offer are more enjoyable, easier to use and a joy to engage with. Only by presenting a more desirable option that works in a holistic manner can we truly expect to see long term beneficial and sustainable behavioural change.