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INTERNATIONAL ESSAY COMPETITION

SUSTAINABILITY

RESULTS!

The Winners!

SUSTAINABILITY

Thien - Nguyen

Leo Henry Roth

El-Caleb Adeniran

First Prize Winners

Thien - Nguyen

Second Prize Winners

Leo Henry Roth

Leo Roth is a junior in high school from Westchester, New York. He is interested in the interdisciplinary emerging fields of sustainable design and bio-architecture. He is passionate about the environment and is researching biomaterials, regenerative design processes, and 3D printing with organic matter. He is interested in how we can learn from nature, and how we can leverage human-nature-technology interactions to create a healthier future.

Third Prize Winners

El-Caleb Adeniran

Adeniran El-Caleb Obanijesu, a third-year student at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, is currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Architecture. While in the midst of completing the degree, Adeniran is enthusiastic about contributing his passion and commitment to the field of architecture. He has a keen interest in sustainable design practices and is dedicated to exploring how architecture can have a positive impact on communities and the environment.

Please introduce yourself briefly and provide some insights into your background in architecture.

My name is Adeniran El-Caleb Obanijesu, and I am currently a third-year student pursuing my Bachelor's degree in Architecture at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria. I am honoured to have been selected as one of the top three entries in the Sustainability Essay Competition 2023.
Throughout my academic journey in architecture, I have been dedicated to deepening my understanding of sustainable design principles. As a student in my third year of architecture studies, I have been exposed to a wide range of theoretical concepts and practical design exercises. My coursework has provided me with a strong foundation in sustainable architecture, covering topics such as energy-efficient design, renewable materials, and environmentally conscious construction techniques. This knowledge has empowered me to approach design challenges with a sustainable mindset and strive for innovative solutions that align with the principles of sustainability.
While I am still in the process of completing my degree, I am eager to contribute my passion, enthusiasm, and commitment to the field of architecture. I am particularly interested in sustainable design practices and exploring how architecture can positively impact communities and the environment.

Can you provide a brief overview of your winning essay on sustainability in architecture.

In my essay, I delved into the intricate relationship between architecture and sustainability, emphasizing the importance of integrating social, economic, and environmental factors for holistic sustainable design thereby creating buildings that are not only environmentally friendly but also socially inclusive and economically viable. The essay starts by introducing the concepts of sustainable architecture, presents principles and various strategies to promote sustainable design, provides a case study (Makoko Floating School) that embody sustainability principles, discusses urban planning and the need for community engagement in creating sustainable urban environments and concludes with technological innovation and future trends opening new possibilities for sustainable architecture.

Your essay explored various sustainable design strategies. Could you elaborate on some of these strategies and how they can be integrated into architectural projects to minimize ecological footprints.

The sustainable design strategies discussed in the essay are passive design, energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, use of sustainable materials and indoor environmental air quality.
Passive design strategies focus on utilizing natural elements to reduce energy consumption. This includes optimizing the building's orientation to maximize solar heat gain. Architects can incorporate shading devices, such as overhangs or louvers, to control the amount of sunlight entering the building. Additionally, natural ventilation strategies, such as operable windows or stack ventilation, can enhance indoor air quality and reduce the need for mechanical cooling which helps to minimize reliance on energy-intensive systems and decrease the ecological footprint.
Energy efficiency strategies aim to reduce the overall energy consumption of a building. Architects can design for energy efficiency by incorporating high-performance insulation, efficient lighting systems (such as LED lighting), and energy-efficient appliances. They can also implement intelligent building management systems that optimize energy usage by monitoring and controlling lighting. Additionally, integrating renewable energy technologies, such as solar panels or geothermal systems, can further reduce dependence on non-renewable energy sources and minimize the ecological footprint.
Water conservation strategies focus on minimizing water usage and maximizing efficiency. Architects can design buildings with rainwater harvesting systems that collect and store rainwater for various uses, such as irrigation or toilet flushing. Low-flow fixtures, such as faucets and showerheads, can be incorporated to reduce water consumption. Architects can also implement greywater systems that treat and reuse wastewater generated from sinks, showers, and laundry. Landscapes can also be designed with drought-tolerant plants and efficient irrigation systems. By integrating water conservation measures, architectural projects can reduce the strain on local water supplies, promote water sustainability, and contribute to overall ecological balance.
Waste reduction strategies aim to minimize construction and operational waste throughout the lifecycle of a building. Architects can design for deconstruction, ensuring that materials can be easily disassembled, reused or recycled at the end of a building's life. By promoting modular construction techniques, architects can facilitate the reuse and repurposing of building components, reducing the amount of waste generated during renovations or future expansions. Architects can also prioritize the use of sustainable construction materials with low waste generation and encourage on-site recycling and waste management practices. By minimizing waste generation and promoting circular economy principles, architectural projects can significantly reduce their ecological footprints.

Summarize the key points discussed in your essay emphasizing on the pivotal role of architecture in shaping a sustainable future.

The essay emphasizes the importance of adopting a holistic approach to sustainable architecture that goes beyond green building practices and recognizes architects as key agents of change in shaping a sustainable future. The pivotal role of architecture in shaping a sustainable future is multifaceted and critical. By prioritizing sustainability in their practice, architects can help in creating buildings that promote health, inclusivity, and community engagement. Also, architects have the opportunity to contribute to long-term economic benefits by considering the life cycle costs of buildings. By incorporating energy-efficient technologies, renewable energy systems, and sustainable materials, architects can reduce operational costs, create economic value for building owners and users and reduce the environmental impacts of buildings. Continued research and innovation in sustainable architecture are crucial for advancing the field. Architects should stay informed about emerging technologies, materials, and best practices. They should embrace interdisciplinary approaches, collaborate with experts from various fields, and push the boundaries of design to create more sustainable and resilient built environments.
In conclusion, beyond green building lies a vision of sustainable architecture that recognizes the interdependence of social, economic, and environmental factors. It is through the integration of these elements that architects can shape a built environment that not only minimizes harm but actively contributes to the well-being of individuals, communities, and the planet. By embracing this holistic approach, architects can lead the way towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

Special mention

Honorable mention

claudia kirk

Laurence A Cole

claudia kirk

Laurence A Cole

Laurence Cole, residing in the UK, where he attends sixth form, pursuing his A-levels. Laurence has always harbored a keen interest in effecting tangible change in the world, particularly in matters of sustainability. With a blend of passion for art and design, he has long been drawn to architectural practices that prioritize environmental consciousness and community support. The essay proved to be a captivating exploration, delving into innovative concepts deeply. While this marked his inaugural essay competition, Laurence anticipates engaging in more as he delves deeper into the realm of architecture. His curiosity propels him to continually seek out solutions, honing his skills for the future. He finds inspiration in examining global perspectives and diverse applications of design to foster a broader awareness.

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