Buildings are responsible for more than 40 percent of the world's total primary energy consumption and account for 24 percent of world CO2 emissions while it is estimated that 70% of the nine billion people predicted to live on earth in 2050 will reside in urban areas. It is essential that architects lead the way in sustainable building practices.
The South African Institute of Architects (SAIA) has once again partnered with AfriSam (South Africa for the biennial AfriSam-SAIA Award for Sustainable Architecture 2011/2012, aimed at recognising outstanding achievement in sustainable architecture as well as creating public awareness and debate on architectural issues.
Entries, which are now open, can be made in two categories - one for built work that has been beneficially occupied since 15 March 2010 and the other for works of social importance, including research.
Koop Design's Dalton Private Reserve in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands received the award in 2009/2010. The compound was recognised as an integrated part of the 3 000-hectare reserve with buildings that are flexible to various utilitarian needs, yet offer exclusivity to guests staying in the luxury accommodation.
This initiative emphasises both SAIA's and AfriSam's commitment to looking for sustainable outcomes in all aspects of architecture. It is important because it not only honours and recognises those practitioners who are actively making a difference but also serves as a platform for debate on the sort of architecture necessary for addressing the fragilities of the earth.
These are sentiments echoed by Dr Stephan Olivier - CEO of AfriSam: "Sustainable architecture and green building are not options but a necessity. It is imperative that our infrastructure and buildings become more responsive to the environment and we aim to highlight that with this award."
The adjudication panel, chaired by SAIA's President, Fanuel Motsepe, is comprised of academic Daniel Irurah; architects Rodney Choromanski and Eric Noir; businesswoman and National President of South African Women in Construction (SAWIC) Dr Thandi Ndlovu and AfriSam's Mike McDonald.
Only paid up corporate members of SAIA can enter. The closing date for entries is 16 March 2012. Award recipients will be announced at a function to be held in Johannesburg in October, 2012. Qualifying projects will form part of an exhibition to be held at the SAIA Biennial Convention, AZA2012 in Cape Town in September next year.
Conditions and format for entry are available from www.4tmrw.co.za.
Caption to introduction picutre: The Lifestyle Garden Centre was a contented two years ago.
