HOW DOES BIOPHILIC DESIGN CONTRIBUTE TO SUSTAINABILITY GOAL COMPLETION AND WHY IS IT SO RELEVANT TODAY?

The pure potential advantage of biophilic design until this moment: it is very important for all of us to find out how biophilic design can really participate in our future global development. You will uncover what are the current global goals, how can biophilic design assist us on the path to achieving those goals, and some examples of companies that orient on biophilic constructions.

Recently, we have read the news titles like: "UN approves new sustainable development goals” and “Climate change: EU to cut CO2 emissions by 55% by 2030”. Referring to these subjects, let’s examine what global goals modern world leaders propose. The initial plan is to “create a better world by 2030” as stated by The Global Goals. This broad definition addresses 17 general goals that countries SHOULD intend to fulfill by the given deadline (points are listed in the order of the most important to the least important):

1. Getting rid of the poverty
2. Getting rid of the hunger
3. Good wealth and well-being
4. Quality education
5. Gender equality
6. Clean water and sanitation
7. Affordable and clean energy
8. Economic growth
9. Industry, Innovation, Infrastructure
10. Reduce inequalities
11. Sustainable society (including communities and cities)
12. Responsible consumption and production
13. Climate action
14. Conserving life below water
15. Life on land
16. Peace and Justice
17. Partnership in order to achieve goals

Biophilic design is a concept that aims to bring people closer to nature by integrating natural elements into our built environment. From incorporating living walls and green roofs to introducing natural light and views of greenery, biophilic design has been shown to have significant benefits for human health and well-being. But the advantages of biophilic design extend beyond individual benefits to the potential to contribute to global development goals.

In recent years, global leaders have focused on sustainable development goals, such as reducing poverty and hunger, improving education, promoting gender equality, and taking action on climate change. Biophilic design can play a significant role in achieving these goals. For example, biophilic design can improve mental health, which in turn can contribute to better education outcomes. Studies have shown that students in classrooms with natural light and views of greenery have higher test scores and lower rates of absenteeism. Similarly, workers in biophilic environments have been shown to be more productive, leading to increased economic growth.

Biophilic design can also contribute to environmental goals such as reducing carbon emissions and protecting biodiversity. By using natural materials, reducing energy consumption through passive design strategies, and incorporating green infrastructure, biophilic design can help to create sustainable communities and cities that are more resilient to climate change.

Numerous companies are already incorporating biophilic design into their buildings and workplaces. For example, Amazon's Seattle headquarters features a living wall, natural light, and indoor gardens, while Google's offices incorporate biophilic elements such as natural wood and greenery. These companies recognize the value of biophilic design in improving the health and well-being of their employees, enhancing productivity, and contributing to a sustainable future.

SOME OF THE ADVANTAGES of Biophilic Design and its potential to contribute to global development goals:

Firstly, biophilic design can improve mental health and well-being. It has been shown that exposure to nature, even in small amounts, can have a significant positive impact on human health. Biophilic design seeks to replicate the patterns, colors, and textures found in nature, creating a sense of calm and relaxation that can help to reduce stress levels. Studies have also shown that biophilic design can improve cognitive function, memory retention, and creativity.

Moreover, biophilic design can also promote social interaction and a sense of community. By incorporating natural gathering spaces, such as gardens or courtyards, into our built environment, people are more likely to connect with each other and form social bonds. This is particularly important in urban areas, where people may feel disconnected from nature and each other.

In terms of education, biophilic design can provide a more inspiring and engaging learning environment for students. Exposure to nature has been shown to increase attention span and motivation, leading to improved learning outcomes. Biophilic design can also provide a source of inspiration for teachers, helping them to develop more creative and engaging lesson plans.

In addition, biophilic design can contribute to economic growth by improving productivity and reducing absenteeism in the workplace. Studies have shown that workers in biophilic environments are more productive and take fewer sick days than those in traditional workplaces. This can lead to increased economic growth and competitiveness for businesses and organizations.

Biophilic design can also contribute to environmental goals by promoting sustainable practices and reducing carbon emissions. By using natural materials, reducing energy consumption through passive design strategies, and incorporating green infrastructure, biophilic design can help to create sustainable communities and cities that are more resilient to climate change.

Examples of biophilic design in practice can be found all over the world. In Singapore, the Gardens by the Bay attraction features giant supertrees that help to cool the surrounding area and promote biodiversity. In Melbourne, the Council House 2 building incorporates a green roof and natural ventilation systems to reduce energy consumption. And in Norway, the Powerhouse Brattørkaia building is designed to produce more energy than it consumes, making it one of the world's most sustainable buildings. More recently, the Stephen Kellert Awards have been announced (where Habitarmonia was selected as a finalist for the European Awards)

In conclusion, biophilic design offers a range of benefits for human health and well-being, social interaction, education, productivity, and the environment. By incorporating natural elements into our built environment, we can create more inspiring, sustainable, and resilient communities and cities that can help to achieve global development goals.

But, with which of the 17  United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) does Biophilic Design contribute?

Biophilic Design can contribute to SDG 1, which is "No Poverty". Biophilic Design can support this goal by creating inclusive and sustainable spaces that promote social equity and well-being. For example, Biophilic Design can incorporate community spaces that foster social interaction and provide opportunities for community engagement, such as community gardens and green spaces. Biophilic Design can also support poverty alleviation by promoting economic opportunities through the use of sustainable materials and construction practices, and by creating spaces that foster economic development, such as green buildings that incorporate local materials and support local economies. By promoting social equity and economic opportunities, Biophilic Design can contribute to achieving SDG 1, which aims to eradicate poverty in all its forms and dimensions.

Biophilic Design can also contribute to SDG 2, which is "Zero Hunger". Biophilic Design can support this goal by promoting sustainable food systems and agriculture through the use of green roofs, green walls, urban farms, and other forms of urban agriculture. These elements can provide fresh, locally grown food that is accessible to urban populations, reducing the distance between food production and consumption and promoting food security. Biophilic Design can also support sustainable agriculture practices by incorporating elements such as rainwater harvesting systems and composting facilities, which can reduce water consumption and waste, and support soil health. By promoting sustainable food systems and agriculture, Biophilic Design can contribute to achieving SDG 2, which aims to end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture.

Good health and well-being (SDG 3): Biophilic design can have a positive impact on human health and well-being by reducing stress levels, improving air quality, and promoting physical activity.

Quality education (SDG 4): Biophilic design can create a more inspiring and engaging learning environment, leading to better educational outcomes for students and educators alike.

Biophilic Design can also contribute to SDG 5, which is "Gender Equality". Biophilic Design can support this goal by creating inclusive and equitable spaces that promote gender diversity and support the needs of all genders. For example, Biophilic Design can incorporate gender-neutral bathrooms and locker rooms, breastfeeding rooms, and spaces that support the needs of individuals with disabilities. Biophilic Design can also promote gender diversity in the workforce by creating equitable and supportive work environments that foster diversity, inclusion, and gender equality. This can include elements such as natural light, biophilic materials, and access to outdoor spaces, which can support employee well-being and productivity. By promoting inclusive and equitable spaces that support the needs of all genders, Biophilic Design can contribute to achieving SDG 5, which aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

Biophilic Design can also contribute to SDG 6, which is "Clean Water and Sanitation". While Biophilic Design may not directly address water management or sanitation, it can indirectly support these goals by reducing the overall demand for water and promoting the conservation of water resources. For example, Biophilic Design can incorporate water-saving features such as rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and low-flow fixtures. Additionally, Biophilic Design can promote the use of green infrastructure such as bioswales and rain gardens, which can help to reduce stormwater runoff and improve water quality. By reducing the overall demand for water and promoting sustainable water management practices, Biophilic Design can contribute to achieving SDG 6, which aims to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.

Biophilic Design can also contribute to SDG 7, which is "Affordable and Clean Energy". While Biophilic Design may not directly generate clean energy, it can help to reduce energy consumption by incorporating natural lighting and ventilation, and by designing buildings that use less energy for heating and cooling. By reducing energy consumption, Biophilic Design can indirectly support the development and deployment of affordable and clean energy technologies, by reducing the overall demand for energy and the associated greenhouse gas emissions. In this way, Biophilic Design can contribute to achieving SDG 7, which aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.

Biophilic Design can also contribute to SDG 8, which is "Decent Work and Economic Growth". Biophilic Design can support this goal by creating healthy and supportive work environments that foster employee well-being, productivity, and satisfaction. This can lead to higher employee retention rates, reduced absenteeism, and increased productivity, which can ultimately result in economic growth. Biophilic Design can also support sustainable economic growth by promoting the use of renewable resources and reducing waste and energy consumption. For example, Biophilic Design can incorporate energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems, green roofs, and rainwater harvesting systems, which can reduce energy consumption and support sustainable resource use. By promoting healthy and sustainable work environments, Biophilic Design can contribute to achieving SDG 8, which aims to promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.

Industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG 9): Biophilic design can promote innovation and entrepreneurship, as well as enhance the sustainability of buildings and infrastructure.

Sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11): Biophilic design can contribute to the creation of more sustainable and livable cities and communities, by integrating nature into the built environment and improving the quality of urban spaces.

Responsible consumption and production (SDG 12): Biophilic design can promote more responsible and sustainable patterns of consumption and production, by using natural materials and reducing the environmental impact of buildings and infrastructure.

Climate action (SDG 13): Biophilic design can help mitigate climate change by reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, as well as increasing the resilience of buildings and infrastructure to climate-related risks.

SDG 14 is "Life Below Water", which aims to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources for sustainable development. While Biophilic Design may not directly contribute to this goal, it can indirectly support it by promoting sustainable resource use and reducing negative environmental impacts. For example, Biophilic Design can incorporate sustainable building materials, such as recycled or renewable materials, to reduce the use of virgin materials that may contribute to ocean pollution. Additionally, Biophilic Design can promote sustainable practices, such as reducing water consumption and runoff, which can indirectly support SDG 14 by reducing the negative impacts of human activities on the oceans and marine life. While Biophilic Design may not be the primary solution for achieving SDG 14, it can play a role in promoting sustainable practices that support the conservation and protection of marine ecosystems.

Life on land (SDG 15): Biophilic design can promote biodiversity and the conservation of natural ecosystems by incorporating green spaces and other natural elements into the built environment.

And finally, Biophilic Design can also contribute to SDG 17, which is "Partnerships for the Goals". Biophilic Design can foster partnerships between designers, architects, engineers, builders, and other stakeholders to develop innovative solutions that address environmental and social challenges. Biophilic Design can also promote partnerships between different sectors and organizations to work together toward achieving common goals. For example, Biophilic Design can bring together public and private sector partners to promote sustainable development, conservation, and climate action. By fostering partnerships and collaboration, Biophilic Design can contribute to achieving SDG 17, which aims to strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development. Overall, Biophilic Design has the potential to contribute to a range of SDGs, supporting the creation of a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

SDG 16 is "Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions", which aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies, provide access to justice for all, and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels. Biophilic Design can contribute to this goal by creating spaces that promote a sense of calm, relaxation, and well-being. By providing comfortable and attractive environments, Biophilic Design can promote positive interactions and communication between individuals and groups, which can help to build more peaceful and inclusive societies.

Furthermore, Biophilic Design can promote the principles of social justice by creating spaces that are accessible and inclusive for all, regardless of their physical abilities, age, gender, or cultural background. By incorporating elements such as natural lighting, soundscapes, and tactile materials, Biophilic Design can create environments that are welcoming and comfortable for everyone.

Finally, Biophilic Design can contribute to building strong and effective institutions by creating spaces that support productivity, creativity, and innovation. By incorporating natural elements, such as greenery and water features, Biophilic Design can create spaces that promote cognitive function and mental well-being, which can support individuals and organizations in achieving their goals and objectives.

In conclusion, biophilic design has the potential to contribute to all of the global development goals set by world leaders. By integrating natural elements into our built environment, we can improve human health and well-being, promote economic growth, and protect the environment. As we look to the future, biophilic design will continue to play an essential role in creating a better world for us all.