When I say that I want to choose business as my major, this means a lot to me. My interest in business is not theoretical and is not dictated by films, media, or any glamor that is usually associated with the business. As a descendant of a family where most are businessmen, I realize business is about hard work and responsibility. I am lucky to have an opportunity to get advice and knowledge from people with experience in running companies of their own.
This field looks challenging and exciting to me this is why I would like to follow in their footsteps. I have never been told that I should inherit the business from my family and become a businessman, too. Indeed, this looks like an easy and alluring option, but I prefer looking for my way. I believe that my path is to gain knowledge and make efforts to create a business of my own, which will not be an easy task. However, I am sure that when I achieve what I want, I will be more proud of myself than if I just inherited my family business. Thus, people will see me differently, as an entrepreneur, not an inheritor.
Besides, I strongly believe that business is not only about money but also about creating and taking opportunities. I think attending business classes is a way to learn new concepts and approaches, perhaps more innovative than those used by my parents. Our world is dynamic, and it takes permanent learning to keep up with the pace of changes. Apart from that, business is the field both for professionals and for personal growth, as well. It is obvious that to become a good manager, one has to learn how to deal with people, make the right decisions, and be confident in all situations. One must be able not only to succeed but also to fail with dignity, which means standing up and learning from one’s mistakes. There is a certain distance between who I am now and who I want to be, and business classes are just one crucial step in going this distance. Studying in a good university is not only a matter of prestige; it is about the environment, which is both challenging and collaborative. During my studies, I will happily meet good teachers who inspire and empower me to achieve my goals. I will get my degree by having good friends from the university around me, which is another benefit of students’ lives.
My second major choice is architecture, which has been my long-term passion. Even though my major is business in my current community college, I took optional architecture classes because I was interested in learning more about the field. Whenever I walk past magnificent buildings designed by outstanding architects, I admire them and think it is the job worth the highest respect. Architecture is attractive to me because one can see palpable results of his/her work, which will last for long years and maybe centuries. I dream about having a whole district in the city designed and projected by me, and it apparently takes years of learning and self-improvement. Those would be buildings with different features and shapes, but when they are gathered, the structure will perfectly set them together. It would be a great honor to stand on top of that structure and feel satisfied because I am part of this miracle.
The Business of Building Sustainable Cities
The intersection of business and sustainable urban development has emerged as a crucial focal point in the quest for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future. This chapter delves into the essential role that businesses play in shaping sustainable cities, the economic benefits of green building practices, and the collaborative efforts between businesses and architects to pioneer projects that thrive economically and contribute positively to the urban environment.
Green Building Practices and Economic Benefits
The foundation of sustainable urban development lies in green building practices designed to reduce the environmental impact of buildings through efficient use of resources such as energy, water, and materials. These practices are not merely altruistic endeavors; they represent a significant economic opportunity for businesses. By investing in green buildings, companies can benefit from reduced operational costs, enhanced asset value, and an improved bottom line. Moreover, green buildings often command higher rental rates and have increased occupancy levels, making them a lucrative investment for developers and real estate investors.
The economic benefits of sustainable design extend beyond individual buildings to influence the broader urban economy. Sustainable cities attract businesses and residents with the promise of a higher quality of life, reduced pollution, and access to green spaces. This, in turn, stimulates local economies and can lead to job creation in sectors related to sustainable development and green technologies.
Case Studies of Successful Sustainable Projects
To illustrate the potential of sustainable urban development, several case studies exemplify the successful integration of green building practices and business acumen:
- The Edge, Amsterdam:
Dubbed one of the greenest office buildings in the world, The Edge in Amsterdam is a testament to how cutting-edge technology and sustainable design can create a highly efficient and desirable workspace. The building features a large array of solar panels, rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing, and an intelligent lighting system controlled by a smartphone. This project showcases how businesses can lead in sustainability while providing an innovative and healthy environment for their employees.
- Bosco Verticale, Milan:
The Vertical Forest in Milan is an architectural marvel that combines high-density residential development with a vertical forest, hosting over 900 trees and thousands of plants. The project demonstrates how urban developments can contribute to biodiversity, improve air quality, and reduce urban heat island effects. It represents a bold investment in green architecture, offering a blueprint for future residential projects.
- Hudson Yards, New York:
As the largest private real estate development in the United States, Hudson Yards has incorporated sustainability into its core, with one of its towers achieving LEED Platinum certification. The development includes efficient waste management systems, rainwater storage for irrigation, and energy-efficient building designs. Hudson Yards exemplifies how large-scale urban projects can embrace sustainability to create vibrant, eco-friendly communities.
The Role of Businesses and Architects in Sustainable Development
The success of sustainable urban projects relies on the collaborative efforts of businesses and architects. Businesses bring the necessary investment and vision for sustainable projects, while architects provide the creativity and technical expertise to make these visions a reality. Together, they can navigate sustainable development challenges, such as balancing economic viability with environmental considerations and integrating green technologies into building designs.
Architects play a crucial role in advocating for sustainable practices, often pushing the boundaries of what is possible in green design. They work closely with businesses to ensure that projects meet current sustainability standards and set new benchmarks for future developments.
Building sustainable cities is a multifaceted endeavor that requires the collaboration of various stakeholders, including businesses, architects, government entities, and the community. Through adopting green building practices, pursuing economic benefits, and implementing successful case studies, we can move closer to the vision of sustainable urban development. This chapter has highlighted the immense potential and positive impact that businesses and architects can have in shaping the future of our cities, making them more livable, environmentally friendly, and economically vibrant.