Conceptual basis for sustainable and biophilic designs

Abstract

The inherited vision of design and projects based on mechanic, linear, reductionist and Cartesian concepts no longer meets the needs of current complexity and demands; neither solves problems caused by its implementation throughout the last few centuries. A new line of vision arises, proposing solutions and offering guidelines to old concepts for a lighter, complex and multiscale design incorporating knowledge already acquired, tested and approved by planetary life through its nearly 4 billion years. Climate change, extinction of animal and vegetable species, waste of material and energy, pollution and contamination of soil, air, water, increase of disparities between the rich and the poor, galloping desertification, decrease of water quality and quantity worldwide and locally, among others, are only indications of a design that does not cope with our times. Being different is crucial and to do so we have to think, conceive, visualize and dream differently, therefore establishing relationships and performing accordingly. This paper aims at a reflection and evaluation of alternatives to be incorporated to design and multiscale planning with a view to approach us to the development of a sustainable and biophilic society.