April 28, 2010 Contributed by Olga G. Alvarez, ASID, IIDA, LEED-AP D+C
I was listening to a very interesting program where the naturalist E. O. Wilson was interviewed and was asked for feedback on the green movement as we know it today. His comments referred to green initiatives as a “pastel shade of green”. In other words, we still have a long ways to go to deepen the intensity.
The remark started me thinking about all the different topics covered under the terminology of “green” and sometimes feeling overwhelmed with the scope of what green encompasses. As design professionals we pride ourselves in having the training, experience and knowledge on everything “green” but in reality sometimes it's difficult and a bit overwhelming even in just selecting products and materials for a sustainable project that will help reduce carbon footprint.
What started the thought process for this article was learning how E. O. Wilson, who is a myrmecologist (ant biologist), studied how different chemical signals affect ants. Pretty amazing things seemed to be happening with that little species.
Not that I want to study insects in this stage of my life nor is it the most interesting of topics for me but it was the beginning of the realization of how chemicals affect the environment. Mr. Wilson came up with some analytical comparisons of the animal kingdom and human behavior and that started a whole new field known as Sociobiology. He also wrote a book titled: “The Diversity of Life” where he details the interconnectivity of humans with the earth.
With the 40thanniversary of Earth Day this month, it seemed an appropriate topic in regards to the interconnectivity of the Earth’s biosphere and human civilization which threatens our very own existence. Still, even though we’ve created havoc on the planet, Mr. Wilson (and I) firmly believe we have the power to change it.
As we address this topic of sustainability and how it applies to the diversity of life, one important theme comes to mind and it involves the products and materials that we surround ourselves with – both at home and at work. What type of impact do they have on us (are we like the ants that E.O. Wilson studied)? How are these products manufactured, transported, and what resources are being depleted in the process? What’s the impact on the environment? How can we achieve a deeper shade of green by making some simple changes and specifying products that lessen their environmental risk as well as their toxic effects?
All design professionals need to understand the role they play in the promotion of sustainability by educating themselves and their clients on the eco-efficiencies of resources. Products without deadly chemicals that can off-gas, those made with recycled content, and ones that can be deconstructed (to be reused and help reduce resource depletion) can all lessen the negative impacts made on the environment.
Unfortunately, as Kermit use to say: “it’s not easy being green”. There’s not one single database that provides a list of materials with information on all the components and attributes and certifications that would facilitate the selection process but hopefully, we’re getting closer to having something along these lines. There are even discussions on having regulatorylaws in place that would facilitate identifying sustainable products.
So how do you select sustainable materials for your project? Do you have to hold a PhD in Bio-Eco-Recyclenewable Materials Science? Do they cost more? In reality, there are many sustainable material choices that do not cost more and the selection is increasing. Become aware of how to identify and select sustainable products & materials. Avoid the “greenwashing” that is part of the sales hype.
So do you know how to select carpeting and flooring products that don’t give off VOCs (volatile organic compounds)? Do you know why it’s important to select FSC certified wood or why you should even care? There’s a myriad of green materials and they’re becoming the norm but knowing how to make the right selection is the key.
We as design professionals have a responsibility to the ants and to the Earth. Remember, a little research can go a long way in making a sustainable decision that can affect generations to come.
Food for thought - Forbes Magazine and Green Tech Media came out with a list of Top 10 Green jobs of the future. Commercial interior designers were on the list due to their expertise in selecting interior finish materials. ¦PGR¦
**Special thanks to Ms. Alvarez from Project Coordinating Services LLC for contributing this article and Valley Forge Fabrics, Inc. for some of the images on their "Living Fresh" and "Fresh" upholstery fabrics**
Pastel Shade of Green
