The need for improved sustainability in the built environment is paramount in all areas of the world. This paper examines how western notions of green buildings perform poorly as a one-size-fits-all solution. Through a review of current literature and case studies, this paper suggests that utilizing traditional building practices and local resources could benefit communities, the environment, and global knowledge systems as a whole. Following a universal view of what qualifies as “green” reduces sustainability, marginalizes local knowledge, and impedes innovation. Sustainable construction must consider location as a critical factor in design. While this paper focuses on sustainable construction, it is informed by and may be applicable to wherever indigenous and western knowledge relate.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Leza, Sierra C.

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-060820-161339

Keyword

• Technology and Environment

Advisor

• Krueger, Robert

Year

• 2020

Date created

• 2020-06-08

Resource type

• Interactive Qualifying Project

Rights statement

• In Copyright