Sustainability, must it be present in the architecture and urban planning of cities?
Could you briefly tell us about your current work and your career path?
«My work is related to the development and consulting for various architectural and urban planning projects using concepts from the bioclimatic architecture, the sustainable development and the energy efficiency. In addition to my academic career at various universities in Peru and other Latin American countries—at both the undergraduate and graduate levels—where I give lectures and teach courses.«
What motivated you to pursue a master's degree in Environmental and Energy Studies?
«Interest in the vernacular architecture It has been a constant presence throughout my life; I would say that the root of this was realizing that part of the answer to our current problems lies in the study of these architectures.
Likewise, we must understand that the world is going through a period related to climate change. This goes hand in hand with understanding the impact of urban growth on population increase and the global warming which will gradually change our behavior as we seek greater comfort.«
How would you define “sustainable urban planning”? Can you give some examples?
«This recent concept relates to urban design and planning. It raises the question of the definition and meaning of urban design and sustainable urban development.
Therefore, sustainable urban planning uses the synergy of a holistic vision of the city, not only by constructing high-quality buildings and infrastructure, but also by A Discourse on Urban Design where technology, politics, the economy, society, and the environment interact. A great example is the use of the Mapocho River in the city of Santiago, Chile; it serves as an axis that runs through the entire city and is used as a bike path.«
As a trainer… What do you think the younger generations need to learn in order to succeed?
«I believe that the so-called soft skills are key to advancing your career. Therefore, the best way to develop these soft skills is through »overcoming real challenges and stepping outside your comfort zone."
According to the INE’s Survey on the Labor Market Integration of University Graduates, in Spain, graduates in the fields of engineering and architecture have an unemployment rate of 4.4 %. In his opinion… Is there really that much demand for architects in Chile and around the world? How do you see the future of the profession?
«Urban growth is a major challenge for the future that requires professionals willing to tackle these significant challenges through high levels of specialization in architecture. Thus, the architect’s work is not limited to the field of design alone, but also extends to, to be part of multidisciplinary teams working to develop buildings and cities with high levels of energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.«
In Spain, there is already a project to construct buildings using 3D printing… Are these new methods/materials taught at the university?
«Currently, universities and technical institutes are expanding their efforts to develop known as Fab Labs. These Digital fabrication workshops allow for a focus on various areas of object production and research. «
We at Structuralia would like to thank Carlos Cornejo their contribution in the field of «sustainable architecture and urban planning,» and we hope you enjoy it.
