Through our interviews, we found the sustainable energy technology is already available, but for large companies and governments, it’s seen that there isn’t enough short-term profit margin in taking sustainable action.
We observed that there is a heavy responsibility on the individual, but the effort needs to be led by those with power and funding in order to implement change. Change has to come from a mix of bottom-up and top-down initiatives because individuals do not have the power or money to fix things on their own. Rules and laws have to be implemented with constraints on standards for a new building or facility development. Everything being created or updated must be made for longevity and sustainable practices.
These observations implicate the involvement of design managers, the gap between organizations/government and individuals needs to be bridged, as well as the gap in awareness of long-term and short-term profit. We as design managers are the ones to facilitate the dialogue between corporations, government, and scientists, to incentivize the long-term profits and solutions that come from sustainable development and practices. If we continue the way we are, without government intervention, no substantial difference can be achieved.
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by: Sylvan, Shaina, Sophie, Naomi