Environmental Ethics Awakened in France

What does it mean for a future architect to apply environmental ethics to his design? What philosophy of belief

would an architect apply to envision a future where the environment surrounding him is respected? What is left to

respect in a world clashing in major environmental issues. Embarking on my journey as a future architect, I've come

to realize the profound responsibility that comes with integrating environmental ethics into design. Witnessing the

escalating environmental challenges—climate change, pollution, and habitat loss—has fueled my determination to

weave sustainability into my architectural practice. As I step into this profession, I'm driven by a personal

commitment to leverage design as a force for positive change, aspiring to create spaces that harmonize with nature,

promote sustainability, and contribute to a healthier planet for generations to come.

The exponential surge of environmental crises over the past century stems from our relentless pursuit of

industrialization, unchecked population growth, and insatiable consumerism. Our rapid transition from agricultural

societies to industrialized nations has left a destructive trail of pollution, habitat destruction, and resource

exploitation. This reckless pursuit of progress has come at the expense of our planet's ecosystems and biodiversity.

Coupled with an unprecedented rise in the global population, our insatiable demands for resources have pushed our

natural systems to the brink of collapse. Our blind reliance on technological advancements, while promising

convenience and comfort, has also facilitated environmental degradation, resource depletion, and unprecedented

pollution. Our disposable consumer culture, feeding off overconsumption and waste, has become a destructive force,

suffocating the planet with mountains of non-biodegradable refuse. This unchecked march towards environmental

calamity driven by our actions demands an immediate, radical reevaluation of our values, practices, and priorities if

we are to secure a sustainable future for generations to come.

During my journey through Europe, amidst the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, a pivotal moment occurred

when my family and I traversed from Sweden to Spain, passing through various cities until we reached the

magnificent Alps in France. Surrounded by this awe-inspiring natural landscape, a profound sensation enveloped

me—an absence of the constant technological hum, the embrace of pristine air, and the harmonious melody of

nature's sounds filled me with an overwhelming sense of joy. It was a poignant realization, a stark awakening to our

disconnection from nature as humans. The purity of that moment highlighted our adaptation to, and acceptance of,

polluted environments as the norm, a disheartening state that has desensitized us to the destruction we continue to

inflict upon our surroundings. This experience underscored the significance of environmental ethics and their impact

on the human senses, showcasing the stark contrast between the revitalizing purity of untouched nature and the

normalized pollution that dulls our sensory experiences. It urged a reflection on our relationship with the

environment, emphasizing the need to rekindle our innate connection with nature and reevaluate our actions to

preserve its sanctity for future generations.

During my journey through Europe, especially when reaching the stunning Alps in France, I had a transformative

experience that profoundly impacted my perspective as an architect. Surrounded by the untouched natural beauty, I

became acutely aware of the sensory richness present in such environments. The absence of technological noise and

the purity of the air stirred within me a realization of the importance of incorporating sensory elements into

architectural designs. It struck me how disconnected we, as humans, have become from nature. This realization

sparked a renewed commitment within me to prioritize sustainability in my architectural practice. I felt a

responsibility to integrate eco-friendly materials, consider the broader environmental implications of design

decisions, and strive to create spaces that foster a deeper connection between people and the natural world.

Additionally, the diversity of landscapes and cultures I encountered during my travels broadened my architectural

horizons, fostering a deeper appreciation for regional diversity and cultural sensitivity in design. Ultimately, this

experience has inspired me to reimagine architecture as a harmonious blend of sensory richness, environmental

responsibility, and a stronger connection to nature for the well-being of both occupants and the planet. This journey

inspired me to re-envision architecture as a harmonious blend of human well-being, environmental sustainability,

and a deeper connection with nature.