J08

Design and the Environment 


I have always been a nature buff. I love to camp, bike, run, hike and do anything outside at all times. When deciding on a major at Ohio State, I always wanted to combine something with the environment. I never knew how much design could have an effect on our earth ecological system. After learning more about nature and how it effects design through the videos we watched in class on biomimicry, I have realized how much these two aspects of art and science can intermix. Although our environment is spuratic and natural, with design we can help create more sustainable products, create a more livable earth, and help the nature that exists flourish. 


Source 1: Landscape Architecture 
http://knowlton.osu.edu/?content=18


The video on this website is the source that I particularly was interested in. Landscape architecture is not simply designing the backyards of wealthy homeowners; it is a sustainable and "green" occupation that helps create highways, cities and park landscapes so that they are more environmental. I was amazed with the work landscape architects do. They design things such as green roofs, which are rooftops on buildings that are made of grass so that the rain collects in the soil and in turn helps keep the building cool while prevents run off. They create highways so the chemicals and residue from cars do not build up in our ecosystem. They design neighborhoods and specifically place trees in areas surrounding the houses that will help save the homeowners energy. Landscape architecture is a specific career that incorporates both the environment and design in every aspect. 


Source 2: Green Design Furniture
http://www.greendesigns.com/

Green design furniture is an awesome company. Not only are their pieces of furniture gorgeous and extremely appealing, they leave a very small environment footprint. They selectively cut the trees they use for their wood so that the rebirth of younger trees is faster and more easier for the forests. They make sure their products are durable and last for generations, yet the design is fairly simple and not extreme so that the style is also timeless. All of their products are derived from reused material and they generate hardly any "waste" in their factories. They care so much about the quality and ecological well being of each one of their products that they produces less than 1,000 pieces of furniture each year. 


Source 3: Design By Nature
http://www.designbynature.org/main.php


Design By Nature is a very unique graphic design firm. They understand that in general, graphic design is not the most eco-friendly specialization. It involves a lot of printing, ink, paper and material waste. Their goal is to make their graphic designs more sustainable and reduce their carbon footprint. They do so by using environmentally responsible paper, reusable packaging and bio-friendly ink. Their company is based in Australia and is the only graphic design firm known in that country. They understand that in today's world, a graphic designer has the capability of designing a well thought out, and creative design, while also using less material, causing less environmental impact and while costing less. If everyone supported this type of idea with graphic design firms, there would be more publicity for going green and more support for designers who understand and care for sustainability and our ecosystem. 




Source 4: Mama's Earth
http://www.mamasearth.com/


Mama's earth is the one of the main "green general stores" on the internet. It provides consumers with all sorts of organic and environmentally safe products. All of their house ware products such as glass plates and bowls are made from 100% recyclable glass, while their linens and bed throws are 100% organic cotton. The more heavy-duty products such as wallets or tote bags are made of all natural hemp. This was the only store online that seemed to have products across the board from kids products to accessories to items for the home. It is affordable and good for the environment. These type of products (shirts, socks, etc..) could be easily bought or produced more affordably for stores such as wal-mart or target, but the design of Mama's Earth products are specifically created to help keep all their inventory more eco-friendly and durable. 


Source 5: Environment Design
http://www.environmentdesign.com/


I thought this company was very cool. Although it may seem childish, I know as a kid I was outside from the early morning until dinner time. I truly believe being in nature as a kid helps you appreciate and care for the outdoors exponentially more than the kids who are stuck inside playing video games. The fact that this company not only creates playgrounds for youngsters that fit in the environment more naturally and comfortably than the stereotypical bright plastic pieces, but they are also made of 100% recyclable materials. Their products can take the wear and tear of the changing seasons' weather, and are able to last up to 15 years longer than the standard leading brand with barely any upkeep. These products not only are safe and reliable, but help teach children how important nature is through imagination and play.