the eleventh hour

Shockingly confronting, the episode of the human species is exposed as a tumor on the earth's natural complexion. I had never reflected on the cost of my existence and, although I knew that it was environmentally costly, never really did the maths on how much we have "borrowed" from the land.

Irrespective of whether responsibility has not been solely placed in the lap of the designer, there are startling concerns about our impact to society and the environment. Moreover, rising and proven instances of asthma and disease worldwide illustrate a need for urgency in tackling the global environmental crisis.

We have all experienced this depressing picture painted about society and for the most part we have done little about our consumption habits. The eleventh hour demonstrates why change is important, and makes relevant the extent of society's predicament.

Personally, I have seen most of my design theory develop with little input (unless required) of ecology and sustainable design. It has always seemed to take a backseat to aesthetics, semantics and practicality. Change has been a dynamic constant that has followed design through our existence, however I can realize the enormity of the change that must occur to ensure our future.

I believe the stigma of eco design having a prerequisite of 'uncomfortable' and 'unfinished' must be left behind for progression.

"Environmentally superior products are not niche 'eco' or 'green' products but everyday products that have been designed to minimize or eliminate harm to the environment or society" A Year In Design, Autralian International Design Awards 2009