Urban architecture? Let’s build sustainably!
10 April 2009, Ronda (Spain). How to reduce the environmental impact of urbanization? How to develop large-scale urbanization in a sustainable manner? A project carried out in Ronda, south of Spain, wants to show that incorporating nature into construction is the simplest way to ensure sustainability in developing urban areas.
A progressive introduction of “eco-machines” – which don’t require mass exploitation of soil resources – is another tool for sustainable architecture. The “eco-machines” are made up of millions of biological organisms; they can be used as effective resources which don’t need any fossil fuel or metal to operate, as these are intergrated in the microorganisms themselves.
With this approach the project in the SerranÃa de Ronda analyzed the urban planning and wildlife corridors in the area (approx. 200 km north-sur and 100 km east–ovest). This resulted in a number of best practices which could facilitate the development of sustainable architecture internationally. This approach could also revert desertification.
The project “Llley” was developed in three phases and concluded in October 2008. At the moment efforts are taken to create urban tools of small and medium scale, as it has not been possible to develop a general methodology due to lack of time.
An interesting debate on the creation of sustainable urban tools is taking place on a relevant internet blog. Further information on the project can be found here (Seccion Paisajismo Sostenible, Proyecto Llley).
