Looking To The Past For Solutions

With global warming accelerating at a disaster-bound rate, it’s imperative that we rethink temperature control in both existing and new spaces, particularly in the territories and among the communities worst affected by climate change. Keeping cool without reliance on harmful air conditioning is essential – instead, we must look to ancient techniques for a sustainable outcome.

As the planet heats up, we’re met with the contrasting realities of both more flooding and more drought. Our relationship with water must change, and historically proven ideas come into play – whereby we work with this element, rather than try to bend it to our will. Sponge cities and Indian stepwells are amongst the solutions.

Immersing ourselves in pre-industrial-revolution levels of biophilia and re-nurturing the animal world are essential ways to support our damaged eco-system. Putting nature front and first creates conurbations and communities with a healthier footprint, and by looking to the annals, we will once again support those living creatures that co-exist with us to positive environmental effect.

Employing ancient agricultural techniques – some of them up to 12,000 years old – represents one of the most significant ways to slow global climate change. From mixed and rotating crop systems to agroforestry and the cultivation of heritage foods and fibres, embracing regenerative agriculture is one of the most obvious and transformative ways in which the past can inform a better future.