SUSTAINABLE
DISASTER-RESILIENT ARCHITECTURE - Building
Smarter in the Philippines
The
Philippines is no stranger to natural disasters, facing challenges
such as typhoons, flooding, earthquakes, landslides, and extreme heat
almost every year. As climate change exacerbates these threats, it is
crucial that architecture evolves beyond mere aesthetics and
functionality. Today, our buildings must be sustainable, resilient,
and designed to endure disasters. This is why embracing sustainable,
disaster-resilient architecture is not just important—it is
imperative for our future safety and well-being.
OBJECTIVE:
While
pursuing my Architecture degree, I focused my thesis on a topic that
holds significant importance: “Disaster Relief Center.” At that
time, the submission process wasn’t automated, so I wasn't able to
secure a copy of my work. However, I remember that many principles
discussed in this blog reflect the design concepts I explored in my
thesis. Unbeknownst to me, these ideas would later become central to
the ongoing conversation about sustainability, particularly within
the realms of Green Building and Sustainable Architecture. In this
blog, we will delve into why integrating Green Building concepts into
our projects is crucial. It is vital to approach building smarter,
especially in the Philippines, one of the most disaster-prone
countries in the world.
What Is
Sustainable Disaster-Resilient Architecture?
Sustainable disaster-resilient
architecture combines two important goals:
Sustainability
– reducing environmental impact through efficient use of energy,
water, and materials
Resilience
– designing buildings that can withstand disasters and recover
quickly afterward
In simple terms, it means creating
buildings that are good for the environment and strong enough to
protect lives.
Why This Matters
in the Philippine Context?
The
Philippines is positioned along the Pacific Ring of Fire and the
Western Pacific typhoon belt, making it exceptionally vulnerable to a
range of natural disasters, including earthquakes, volcanic
eruptions, typhoons, floods, and storm surges. Communities in coastal
and low-lying areas are particularly at risk and require immediate
attention. Adopting sustainable, disaster-resilient architecture is
crucial for safeguarding lives and properties. This approach not only
minimizes long-term environmental damage and reduces rebuilding and
recovery costs, but it also promotes quicker recovery for communities
following disasters. Investing in such architecture is a vital step
towards a safer, more resilient future.
Key Design
Strategies Used in the Philippines
1.
Climate-Responsive Design
Buildings that work
with the tropical climate perform better during disasters:
Natural
ventilation and cross-breezes
Deep roof
overhangs and shading
High ceilings for
heat release These passive strategies reduce energy use and keep
spaces habitable even during power outages.
2.
Disaster-Resilient Structures
Strong structural
design is essential:
Proper seismic
detailing for earthquake resistance
Secure roof
systems and wind-resistant forms for typhoons
Stilt Houses
Stilt Houses: elevated floors
and flood-resistant materials in flood-prone areas
Concrete stilt houses
offer valuable advantages in terms of elevation, ventilation, and
adaptability.
3.
Sustainable and Local Materials
Using locally
available materials like bamboo, engineered wood, and recycled steel:
Reduces carbon
emissions
Supports local
industries
Improves
adaptability to local conditions
Durable materials also
perform better during extreme weather events.
4.
Energy and Water Resilience
Disasters often
disrupt basic services. Resilient buildings include:
Solar panels and
battery storage
Rainwater
harvesting systems
Water-efficient
fixtures
These systems help
buildings remain functional during emergencies.
5.
Nature as Protection
Green spaces are not
just aesthetic features:
Trees reduce wind
impact and heat
Olango Island Cebu Wetlands and Mangrove
Mangroves and
wetlands lessen flooding and storm surge
Permeable
surfaces manage rainwater
Nature-based solutions
strengthen both environmental and disaster resilience.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
Building for the Future
As
disasters grow more frequent and severe, the Philippines must move
beyond reactive rebuilding and embrace proactive, resilient, and
sustainable design. Architects, planners, and policymakers have a
pivotal role in creating structures that not only protect communities
but also nurture the environment. Sustainable disaster-resilient
architecture is more than just a current trend; it stands as an
essential survival strategy for Filipino communities, ensuring a
safer and more sustainable future for all.
THE THREE PILLARS OF SUSTAINABILITY AND THEIR ROLE IN SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE
Sustainability
has become a crucial challenge and aspiration for today’s society,
particularly in architecture and urban design. At its heart,
sustainability means addressing the needs of the present while
ensuring that future generations can also thrive. This vital
principle is underpinned by the "Three Pillars of
Sustainability": environmental, social, and economic aspects.
Embracing and weaving together these three dimensions is essential
for fostering resilient, responsible, and progressive architectural
practices that will shape a better future for all.
DIAGRAM 1: Three Pillars of Sustainability
THE THREE PILLARS OF SUSTAINABILITY (GENERAL OVERVIEW)
1. Environmental Sustainability (Ecological)
Environmental
sustainability involves the preservation and responsible management
of our natural ecosystems and resources. We must recognize the
importance of minimizing our impact on the planet by actively
reducing pollution, conserving biodiversity, and using resources
wisely. By doing so, we can ensure that our natural environments
continue to thrive and provide the vital ecosystem services that all
life depends on. Adopting practices such as promoting renewable
energy, cutting greenhouse gas emissions, protecting our natural
habitats, and focusing on waste reduction can make a significant
difference. Embracing environmental sustainability is not just an
option; it is essential for securing the long-term health and future
of our planet for generations to come.
2. Social Sustainability
Social
sustainability is vital for ensuring the well-being of both current
and future generations. It embodies essential values such as equity,
inclusion, health, safety, and community development. A truly
socially sustainable society guarantees access to vital services,
strengthens social bonds, and empowers individuals and communities to
flourish. Recognizing the integral role of social systems in overall
sustainability, we must advocate for fair policies, respect for
diverse cultures, and inclusive governance. By championing practices
like inclusive urban planning, fair labor standards, accessible
healthcare and education, and the celebration of cultural diversity,
we lay the foundation for a thriving society that benefits everyone.
3. Economic Sustainability
Economic
sustainability is essential for ensuring that our economic systems
can thrive over the long term while effectively managing resources.
It strikes a crucial balance between financial viability and the
well-being of our environment and society. By fostering an
economically sustainable society, we embrace innovation, enhance
efficiency, and build resilience, all while steering clear of
practices that jeopardize our financial future or exhaust our natural
resources. Effective strategies, such as adopting sustainable
business models, creating circular economies, and investing in green
technologies, will pave the way for a prosperous future. By
prioritizing economic sustainability, we can guarantee that our
development not only endures but also uplifts both ecological health
and human dignity for generations to come.
III. The Three Pillars in Sustainable Architecture
1. Environmental Sustainability in Architecture
Environmental
sustainability in architecture is not just a trend; it’s a
necessity for our planet’s future. Designing buildings that
minimize ecological footprints and foster a connection with nature is
crucial. By carefully selecting sustainable materials and employing
energy-efficient technologies, architects can create spaces that
harmonize with the environment. Incorporating passive design
strategies, such as natural ventilation, daylighting, and thermal
mass, further enhances a building’s performance. By adding
renewable energy systems, green roofs, rainwater harvesting, and
innovative waste management solutions, architects can ensure their
projects are truly sustainable. The Bullitt Center in Seattle (Please see cover photo) stands
as a striking example of this commitment, often hailed as the
"greenest commercial building in the world," showcasing
systems that achieve net-zero energy, water, and waste. Embracing
these design principles will lead us to a more sustainable and
thriving future.
2. Social Sustainability in Architecture
Social
sustainability in architecture is essential for creating spaces that
not only serve their functions but also enrich our communities. By
designing environments that are accessible to everyone, regardless
of age, ability, or background, we can foster a sense of belonging
and connection. Emphasizing communal spaces encourages social
interactions, while prioritizing health and safety ensures the
well-being of all users. Projects like Maggie's Centres in the UK
showcase the power of socially sustainable architecture, providing
compassionate environments for cancer care that uplift patients
through thoughtful, human-centered design. These centers harness the
benefits of natural light, open spaces, and supportive environments,
transforming the experience of care into one that promotes healing
and hope.
Maggie's Centre, Carring Cross, London
Roof Garden of Maggie's Centre, London
3. Economic Sustainability in Architecture
Economic
sustainability in architecture is crucial for creating buildings that
not only meet our needs today but also remain cost-effective over
their entire life cycle. By considering factors such as initial
construction costs alongside long-term operational expenses,
maintenance, and adaptability, we can ensure a smart investment. Key
strategies include utilizing durable, low-maintenance materials,
designing for energy efficiency, and adopting modular or
prefabricated construction methods to significantly reduce waste and
costs. A shining example is the BedZED (Beddington Zero Energy
Development) in London, which showcases the power of energy-saving
materials and renewable energy sources in a design that minimizes
environmental impact while ensuring economic feasibility. Embracing
these principles is essential for a sustainable future in
architecture.
BedZED, London
FINAL THOUGHTS
The
three pillars of sustainability—environmental, social, and
economic—are intricately linked and crucial to the success of
sustainable architecture. For architecture professionals and students
alike, embracing these principles in every phase of design and
construction is not just an obligation; it's an exciting opportunity.
By committing to a holistic approach that harmonizes these pillars,
architects can lead the charge in creating built environments that
are not only functional and visually stunning but also fair,
resilient, and sustainable for generations yet to come. Let's shape a
better future together!
There
are lots of factors that should be considered in applying the
principles of sustainability in the architectural design of a
building or a complex development. One of the fundamental factors is
that of the scales involved in a sustainable built environment.
Without understanding such scales and their impact and interaction with each other, it would be very difficult for us, sustainable architects
and designers, to proceed with the proper design of a green building.
OBJECTIVE
For
an easy understanding of the audience I am trying to reach out to from
all walks of life, such as students, professionals, to
homeowners/clients alike, I have compiled information I personally
gathered from my work experiences, training, and extensive research.
The Sustainable Architecture Certification course I have attended provided just three basic scales (building, site, and region), but I kind of diversified and tried to expand it into five instead, which I
believe would help my readers in the proper understanding of the details needed
in this subject.
To
start it up, the basic scales of the sustainable built
environment are the following:
1.
Building;
2.
Site;
3.
Neighborhood;
4.
City; and
5.
Region
FIGURE 1 -A simple diagram of the basicscales of the sustainable built environment
All
of these are deeply interconnected. Decisions made at one scale
inevitably influence the others, and sustainable strategies are most
effective when they are aligned
and integrated across scales. Here’s how they
interact:
1. Building Scale
The scope involved in this particular scale includes materials,
energy systems, water use, and indoor environment quality. This
is how they impact the other scales:
A building's energy efficiency affects
citywide energy demand – utilizing renewable energy systems such
as solar panels and energy-efficient household appliances may help
the city to cope and avoid a shortage of energy supply;
Material choices affect regional supply chains and waste systems – this is the reason why most of the well-known sustainable architects, such as Hassan Fathy, who uses locally sourced building materials; Le Corbusier, who uses panels; both of whom use less to no energy on transportation.
2. Site Scale
In this scale, the scope includes landscape, topography, drainage,
microclimate, transportation access, etc. I have recently been involved in the site analysis of a farmland in the southern part of
Luzon, Philippines, and I believe I could use this as a good example.
DISCLAIMER: The information provided below is covered by the laws governing the fair use policy in general. I prefer not to disclose the name of the project, its location, and the stakeholders’
personal information to protect privacy. The excerpts are for educational purposes only to supplement the blog and are not intended as professional advice.
Our findings during our ocular site inspection are stated in an
excerpt of the submitted Site Analysis Report as follows:
Purpose
of Inspection General
Site Conditions Observations
and Findings
The
purpose of this ocular site inspection is to assess the condition of
the property’s site condition such as the accessibility, physical
locations of existing vegetation, structures, actual ground terrain,
hills, plain and slanting grounds, bodies of water, etc.;
verification of coordinates to create satellite photo analysis; all
of which to help the planning team find appropriate locations for
each facilities and create a functional site development plan. The
inspection was also conducted in order to identify any areas
requiring immediate attention or remediation and determine
appropriate project scheduling.
Accessibility: The Site is currently accessible from the road with no major obstacles or restrictions.
Surrounding
Environment: The Surrounding neighborhood seems to be manageable.
Earthwork:Even though the lot area is multi-level with sloping terrains and some hilly areas, the area is generally plain with very minimal to no requirement for slope protection. The high altitude of the location is assessed to be risk-free from other hazards such as flooding, sea level rise,
erosion,
landslide, or liquefaction.
Utilities:The presence of the existing structures along the road provides assurance that electricity, water supply, and plumbing items are available in the area.
Safety
Hazards:Currently,
no potential safety issues have been identified.
Security
Hazards: The property requires proper fencing with a gate prior to or during the construction stage.
Code
Violations:Compliance with local regulations or building codes is yet to be determined.
Environmental
Concerns:No environmental issues yet, such as water drainage, waste disposal, environmental contamination, etc.
However,
since animal farming is the main activity to be conducted, the planning team will determine these issues during the planning stage.
Overall,
the site is in stable condition, with a few minor issues requiring
attention in the short term, such as immediate construction of fencing
and a gate, together with some scattered minor site clearing. This has
to be done while the planning team is working on the technical
matters of the project. Currently, no major structural or safety
concerns have been identified yet, but it is recommended that the above
suggestions be made to ensure the site remains functional and
favorable while the planning stage is being conducted.
Other site scales’
Interaction with other scales of the sustainable built environment:
Site design (like permeable surfaces) contributes to neighborhood flood resilience.
Solar orientation and landscaping can boost building performance.
Transportation links - tie into citywide mobility networks.
3. Neighborhood Scale
The
scope
at
this scale includes land
use, population
density,
mobility, shared infrastructure, social connectivity, etc.
With
regards to land use, there are certain laws that govern this
subject in the Philippines. You can check this out in one of my blogs
entitled “List of Laws Essential to the Practice of Architecture in
the Philippines”. Here is the link:
https://architalktural.blogspot.com/2024/02/list-of-laws-essential-to-practice-of.html. Other
factors could be determined through research or ocular inspections.
Here
is some additional information from the Sustainable Architecture
course I attended online through Alison. The following advantages of the sustainable neighborhood are enumerated:
1.
Design on a human scale;
2.
Provide choices;
3.
Encourage mixed-use development;
4.
Vary transportation options;
5.
Build vibrant spaces;
6.
Create identity, and
7.
Conserve landscapes.
Other
site scales’ Interaction with other scales of the sustainable built
environment:
Walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods reduce regional car dependency.
Shared energy or waste systems benefit building sustainability.
Local green spaces - support site and building health outcomes.
4. City Scale
The
scope at this scale includes infrastructure
systems (energy, transport, waste), zoning, housing policy, and economic
planning. Such
information can be obtained by visiting the city’s main office or
city hall. Usually, the building official’s office has everything
you will need while conducting planning for your projects.
Other
site scales’ interaction
and
impact with
other scales of the sustainable built environment:
Urban policy drives neighborhood design standards and building codes.
Citywide transit investments - impact site selection and building accessibility.
Data from buildings (smart meters, sensors) can inform city energy policy.
5. Regional Scale
The
largest scale is the regional scale, which includes watersheds,
ecosystems, climate zones, transportation corridors,and resource
management. From the Sustainable Architecture course I attended, the
following similar scope items are enumerated as follows:
1.
Climatic conditions;
2.
Topography/terrain;
3.
Vegetation;
4.
Water Resources;
5.
Land as a resource; and
6.
Connectivity
Such
information, required whenever planning is conducted for building or
complex projects, can be obtained from regional offices or some city
halls. However, if available, some of these can be obtained online
through the region’s website.
Interaction:
Regional climate dictates building design strategies (e.g., passive cooling).
Watershed protection policies influence site drainage and neighborhood planning.
Regional transit affects city form and neighborhood structure.
The Edge, Amsterdam
Bullitt Center, Seattle
FINAL THOUGHTS
Sustainable architecture is a subset of sustainable development. Architecture is a social and economic exercise that leads to environmental impact and, in turn, is affected by it, and so it has to respond to all these in a balanced manner. The primary principle is to understand the sustainable built environment as a system that comprises various scales. Therefore, all sustainable architects must learn these scales and their impacts first before proceeding with the planning and design of green buildings.
The waters of Lake Okutama are as deep blue as the eye can perceive. The lake, which is surrounded by mountains and is lovely throughout the seasons, is a well-liked and favorite destination in Tokyo.
Okutama Lake, also known as the Ogouchi Reservoir, is a significant freshwater source for Tokyo and one of the town's main attractions. The Ogouchi Dam blocks the natural flow of the Tama River, a historically significant water source for Tokyo, resulting in a sizable lake that divides into numerous valleys farther upstream.
The Kosuge River, which originates in Yamanashi Prefecture, supplies water to the lake from the southwest while the Tama River supplies water from the west. Yamanashi Prefecture is responsible for the branches of the lake and the mouth of the Kosuge River that empties into it.
Tokyo's needs are met by an underground pipe system that draws water from the lake. Hydroelectricity is generated in a power plant at the foot of the Ogouchi Dam using the water power of the Tama River, which empties the lake.
NOTE: This trip although featured in this blog today is a late posting. The tour was done during the winter season in 2020 when I am still staying in Japan. Currently, I am staying in the Philippines practicing Architecture as freelance consultant.
GETTING THERE
By train & Bus
Take a JR Chuo Line or Ome Line train to Ome Station from central Tokyo and switch to the Ome Line there. The line that travels to Okutama Station is that one.
Take a Nishi Tokyo Bus to Okutama Lake from Bus Stop 2 in front of Okutama Station. Numerous buses go around Okutama Lake's shoreline along Highway 411, stopping frequently at the most attractive locations such as the Nonkia Restaurant and Ogouchi Shrine.
SUICA/PASMO cards are accepted on Nishi Tokyo buses.
By Car
When coming from Tokyo, take Ome Town's Highway 411, pass through Okutama Town, and then continue on to the lake. The Onouchi Dam, which designates the eastern end of the reservoir, is where you first arrive. The road to the dam ascends the mountains in a series of twists while following the Tama River Valley. The spectacular dam is visible from some of the road's curves in the distance.
There is a sizable parking lot next to the dam.
SIGHTSEEING
Walking over the dam, which is available to the public, provides fantastic views of the lake and the mountains that surround it. A power plant that converts the Tama River's water power into electricity can be seen when looking down the steep concrete wall of the dam's "backside," which controls the river's onward flow towards Tokyo.
Okutama Mizu-to-Midori-no-Fureaikan (Okutama Water and Green Museum)
THE MUSEUM
Another exciting part of the tour is the Okutama Mizu-to-Midori-no-Fureaikan (Okutama Water and Green Museum), a small museum located immediately next to the dam entrance and devoted to the local contribution to the provision of water for Tokyo. The open-to-the-public museum exhibits local history, the dam's history, the lake's water sources, and general knowledge of the value of clean, fresh water supplies to the Tokyo Metropolitan Area. Visitors can learn about sustainability and eco-friendly topics in their mini-theater shows and exhibits.
Opening times: daily from 9.30am to 5pm. Closed on Wednesday. If Wednesday is a public holiday, the museum closes the following day.
Admission is free.
The Katakuri no Hana Restaurant is located on the museum's top floor, where its windows provide stunning views over the reservoir.
Here are more pictures of the museum showing some historical artifacts and scientific exhibits:
A BRIEF HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
Beginning in 1932, work on the Ogouchi Dam was initiated. Work on new development had to come to a halt during World War II and the years that followed. Finally finished in 1957, the dam has been in use ever since.
OUR TRIP
We had several trips to Okutama Lake while still in Japan, making it one of our favorites. We usually go there on a regular family outdoor adventure, but sometimes, we entertain our local guests and overseas visitors. Perhaps one of the reasons is the accessibility of the place and that it’s near where we used to stay.
The photos were taken during our trip in January of 2020, which is still winter, although it’s best to go there during seasons when the color of trees changes: pink Sakura flowers in Spring and orange Maple leaves in Fall. Summer is also a good choice; nevertheless, our winter trip was fun because it was our first time going there in the middle of a cold season. The trees are quite bald, exposing the snow from beneath, creating an alpine view of the mountains.
We just had a small walk around the lake and a quick picnic in one of the shaded areas around the place. The best part is the bonding time with people closest to your heart. There is nothing that can replace such warm moments in a cold season.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. . .
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