In
the article “This Detroit House is being turned into a living model of
cost-saving sustainable design”, Peters (7 July 2016) illustrates how a group
of three architecture graduates purchased a house with the intention of sharing
their knowledge in sustainability with the community of Detroit. They have
named the project ‘“Motown Movement”’ which is to transform their ideas into
reality. Background studies by the students indicate that the locals have
already implemented some form of eco-friendly practices. However, the locals
are still lacking in knowledge of modifying their existing house in a more
cost-efficient manner. As such, the student’s real-life two-storey model house
serve two purposes; ground level acts as a “training facility” while the upper
level is use to accommodate family who are homeless. Some sustainable examples
incorporated are solar panels on the roof, a “graywater system” which harvest
rainwater for flushing of toilets and even conversion of “sewage into biogas
and fertiliser” using “septic tank”. They are also adopting “do-it-yourself”
style hence the construction materials should be available at any local supply
stores. Through the use of these simple techniques and a variety of methods,
their project can also be applicable to other climate conditions globally. All
in all, the students want to increase the awareness of sustainable design by
constructing more of such houses alongside people to educate them on the
simplicity and benefits of it. Peters has portray the direction the students
are trying to achieve to a certain extent, however I feel that there is a lack in
explanation on the driving factor behind the students’ decision in not
attending “grad school like most of their classmates” and the need for
sustainability.
The
reason behind the students approach should be discussed in the article to give
the reader a better understanding on the students’ decision in promoting
sustainability. Firstly, the article mentions on reusing of “materials from
abandoned houses” and “how to install insulation to reduce energy use as much
as 70%”, which suggests saving of construction materials and lesser energy consumption.
These are definitely some examples of saving energy and natural resources but
the presentation of these examples seems to surround the idea on finding
“affordable” ways to improve their existing house to be cost-efficient. Savings
in monetary terms should be an added advantage of sustainability efforts rather
than a focus.
Furthermore,
the topic on sustainability should include other components such as reducing
carbon footprint emissions, reducing wastes and saving water. In the
publication “Singapore Sustainable Blueprint 2015”, it gives the reader a
well-rounded explanation in the involvement of sustainability. As mentioned, the
competition for “finite supply of resources” will be increasing due to global
development and population growth. Singapore being a city state with multiple
limitations, a well thought out and detailed planning is required to keep up
with this competitive economy and yet at the same time optimising the use of
“available resources”. Together with the examples discussed in Peters’ article,
it will be clearer to the reader on the importance of sustainability - to
create and safeguard a greener and environmental friendlier society for all.
In
conclusion, while Adele Peters’ article discusses some examples of simple
sustainable techniques and its benefits, it does not convey the primary need
for sustainable efforts and why the students chose to construct a life model
instead of furthering their studies.
References
Adele
Peters. (2016, July 7). This Detroit
House Is Being Turned Into a Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable Design.
Retrieved from https://www.fastcoexist.com/3061563/world-changing-ideas/this-detroit-house-is-being-turned-into-a-living-model-of-cost-saving-s
National
Climate Change Secretariat (2014, November 8). PM unveils Sustainable Singapore Blueprint 2015 to renew
strategies for a liveable and sustainable Singapore [Press Release]. Retrieved
from https://www.nccs.gov.sg/news/press-releases?field_news_date_value%5Bvalue%5D%5Byear%5D=2014
Ministry
of Environment and Water Resources and Ministry of National Development (2014).
Sustainable Singapore Blueprint 2015. Retrieved
from http://www.mewr.gov.sg/ssb/files/ssb2015.pdf
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