UIA Work Programme on Community Architecture & Human Right Round Table: Designing for Tomorrow - Architects Fostering Climate Action and Urban Equity
1400 - 1615 (Hall 7C)
Organiser: UIA Work Programme on Community Architecture & Human Right (CA+HR)
Title: Designing for Tomorrow - Architects Fostering Climate Action and Urban Equity
Sunday 17 November 2024; 14:00-16:15 Malaysia time
OPEN TO ALL REGISTERED PARTICIPANTS
Background:
The UIA Community Architecture & Human Right Work Programme (CA+HR) is dedicated to advancing the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, with a particular emphasis on Goal 11: making cities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable along with relating other goals as well. With current estimations stating that by 2030, two thirds of the world’s population will live in cities, it is essential that urban environments develop in harmony with the UN guiding principles. This Work Programme aims to ensure that architects are mindful of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in all the projects that they undertake. The Work Programme provides information on the latest innovations in socially and environmentally sustainable architecture so that they can be adopted by architects all around the world.
Concept:
What are some of the most pressing challenges cities are facing? Inequality and the levels of urban energy consumption and pollution are some of the challenges. Cities occupy just 3% of the Earth’s land, but account for 60-80% of energy consumption and 75% of carbon emissions. Many cities are also more vulnerable to climate change and natural disasters due to their high concentration of people and location so building urban resilience is crucial to avoid human, social and economic losses. So how are we addressing this challenge and what more can be done to foster new ways of designing and building, to future proof our cities for humanity and the planet?
Moderator:
Qazi M Arif (Bangladesh)
Co-Director, UIA - Community Architecture & Human Right Work Programme
Sara Sartini (Italy)
Co-Director, UIA - Community Architecture & Human Right Work Programme
Coordinator:
Kathy Bryla (Australia)
Correspondent. Community Architecture & Human Right WP. UIA
Presenters and Discussants:
1. Omar Degan (Somalia)
DO Architecture Group
Omar Degan, is the principal of DO Architecture Group an international architecture and research practice founded in the capital city of Somalia, Mogadishu. With a focus on fragile and emergency contexts, his practice lies in crafting culturally and environmentally sensitive solutions to global social challenges. Degan’s has collaborated globally and advised international organisations like the UN-Habitat and IOM on shelter upgrades and community development in the Horn of Africa. Recognised as an Obama Foundation African Leader in 2022, he was lauded for his impactful work in the Horn of Africa and beyond. In 2023, he established FragilityLab, dedicated to guiding vulnerable communities through the complexities of fragile environments, from conflict zones to climate resilience.
His architecture projects have garnered global attention, and featured in publications and media worldwide. Degan's relentless advocacy for cultural diversity in architecture and vulnerable communities has solidified his reputation as one of East Africa's most influential architects, shaping the future of architecture on a global scale.
2. Doan Thanh Ha (Vietnam)
H&P Architects
Doan Thanh Ha graduated from Hanoi Architectural University (Vietnam) in 2002. He set up and has been operating H&P Architects since 2009. The studio’s works focus on poor and disadvantaged communities in Vietnam, designing structures built from natural, traditional and recycled materials. These ‘essential spaces’ are intertwined with ecological systems to form nature-like environments that can adapt to changing conditions. He is known for the Toigetation 1&2, Cao Bang & Dien Bien; Blooming Bamboo Home, Hanoi; Floating Bamboo House 1&2, Hanoi; Be Friendly Space, Quang Ninh; BES Pavilion, Ha Tinh; S Space, Ha Nam; Ngói Space, Hanoi; AgriNesture, Quang Ninh; Brick Cave, Hanoi.
His projects have received international recognition and have won numerous awards including the UIA Vassilis Sgoutas Prize 2023, Turgut Cansever International Award 2020, Barbara Cappochin Prize 2019, UIA Friendly and Inclusive Spaces Awards 2017, ARCASIA Awards for Architecture Gold Medal (2019, 2016, 2015), Architectural Review House Award 2014.
3. Mazrina Khalid (Malaysia)
Urban Scale
Mazrina Khalid has more than 26 years experience in sustainability and planning and is the managing partner at Urban Scale (Malaysia). She is experienced in preparing comprehensive master plans and Strategic Development Plans, advocating for low carbon cities.
Mazrina is a co-author of the Low Carbon Cities Framework (LCCF) for Ketha, Managing Partner and Director at Urban Scale Studio (a town planning consultancy), Executive council Member for Malaysian Institute of Planners, Member Malaysian Board of Town Planners (since 2018) and Secretary General EAROPH International.