Despite their opposing views, David Strong (BSj 12/07) and JHR Hampson (Letters, BSj 01/08)) both seemed to consider Sustainable Building Institute a good name for a new institute for those keen to “save the planet”.

For those NOT wishing to do so (save the planet) there are institutions aplenty to represent the complacent myth of business as usual, ideal for self-proclaimed open minds who prefer cosy isolation from the awkward reality that we’ve unleashed climate chaos – those who prefer their Earth nice and flat. As for a name, how about “The Fossil Institute”, the “CO2 is Good for You Club”, or the “Unsustainable Building Institute?”

At this 11th hour of climate crisis, our institute needs to lead, and fast, as never before in history. Radical and rapid fossil CO2 avoidance is the only game in town. Those not interested in powering this rescue bandwagon (in the direction of a probable viable future for the children) need not embark (and are kindly asked to stop spoke-sticking), leaving those already on it to accelerate freely, and to start to make real progress cutting the carbon for the kids’ future – a task that building services engineers are uniquely well placed to lead. But we must start!

Dave Hampton, the Carbon Coach, Marlow, Bucks

Source

Building Sustainable Design