On Earth Day 2024, OT shines a spotlight on a revolutionary era in architecture — one defined by a profound commitment to sustainability. From the soaring skylines of urban metropolises to the serene landscapes of remote villages, green buildings have become beacons of hope in the fight against climate change. Embracing cutting-edge technologies and innovative design strategies, these architectural wonders stand as testament to humanity's resolve to coexist harmoniously with our planet.
In cities like Singapore, towering skyscrapers boast vertical gardens and solar panels, transforming concrete jungles into thriving ecosystems. Meanwhile, in the heart of Copenhagen, the world's most sustainable neighbourhood, energy-efficient homes and communal green spaces redefine urban living.
In this list, each structure represents a step forward in our collective journey towards a more sustainable future. As we celebrate Earth Day 2024, let us draw inspiration from these remarkable edifices and renew our commitment to preserving the precious planet we call home.
Built in Rio de Janeiro, the Museum of Tomorrow is a science museum, built in 2015 by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. The building is funded by the government and is constructed using innovative design techniques and mixes science with a focus on sustainable cities. Through its exhibitions and partnerships with the country's universities, scientific institutions and the United Nations, the Museum of Tomorrow strives to spread awareness among visitors on the dangers of environmental degradation and the climate crisis. In terms of design, there are solar panels along the skylight that are designed in such a way that it can adapt to the change in environment. The building also houses restaurants, cafes and bars for visitors.
Bosco Verticale is a pair of towers in Milan that are designed to resemble a vertical forest with plants lining every floor of the buildings. Designed by Stefano Boeri, Gianandrea Barreca and Giovanni La Varra the building is a residential plus office complex where you can rent out some flats that are listed on Airbnb for 184 euros per night.
Built by Linus Kendall and his wife Rupsa Nath in Baruipur, this sustainable house is made of mud and bamboo and has survived a cyclone. It is a balanced mix of Reinforced Concrete Frame (RCC) with sustainable materials like bamboo and thatch. Kendall is a climate change researcher from Sweden while Nath is an artist. Together with Kendall's keen scientific employment of non-toxic materials and the artistic eye of Nath, their house of a genius of balance. It was designed by Laurent Fournier, who is a sustainable architect and constructed by Indian artisans. They have a small pond in front of their house beside which they farm their vegetables and fruits in a completely organic way.
Sanko industries is one of Turkey's oldest enterprises. Its headquarters in Turkey, designed by RMJM Milano, is one of the most well-known architectural landmarks for its sustainable and innovative features like greenery on the exteriors which will compensate for the solar radiation, and make the interiors cooler. The spacious atrium inside the building is open and airy, which allows natural light to illuminate the area. This reduces electricity usage although most of that uses renewable sources.
Designed with an unwavering commitment to environmental harmony, this eco-conscious marvel seamlessly integrates into its natural surroundings. Embracing passive design principles, the library harnesses natural light and ventilation to reduce energy consumption. Its green roof not only insulates the building but also mitigates storm water runoff, fostering biodiversity in an urban landscape. Utilizing locally-sourced materials and renewable resources, every aspect of its construction reflects a dedication to minimizing ecological footprint.