Episode 29- Blanche Cameron ( The Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL)

About the podcast...

In this episode of  Biodiversity Podcast by Teasels, featuring Blanche Cameron. Set against the lush backdrop of UCL, this episode dives deep into the realms of sustainable architecture, green infrastructure, and the holistic integration of nature into urban design. Let’s explore the insights shared by Blanche Cameron, an environmental design educator at The Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL.

Transcribed podcast

In this episode of the Biodiversity Podcast by Teasels, the host is joined by Blanche Cameron at UCL to discuss her journey and expertise in environmental design. Blanche shares her background in architecture, her engagement with the Centre for Alternative Technology in Wales, and her current role in teaching environmental design at the Bartlett School of Architecture. She emphasizes the importance of incorporating nature and sustainable materials into architectural practice and describes her holistic approach to design that includes integrating green roofs and local resources.

Blanche discusses the evolution of environmental design, focusing on nature-based solutions and sustainable work methods. She highlights the importance of educating future architects and planners to think locally and sustainably, sharing that built environments should make nature a client. The conversation extends to existing policies in London and the broader UK, like the pivotal 2008 and 2020 London Plans that promoted green infrastructure and the Urban Greening Factor.

The dialogue touches on the need for a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach to design and construction, integrating various disciplines to work comprehensively toward sustainability. Blanche also points out the necessity of transforming funding mechanisms to allocate resources toward long-term care and maintenance, not just capital expenditure.

The discussion further delves into practical applications and the integration of green infrastructure in urban settings, like rain gardens and green roofs. The value of hands-on learning for students is emphasized, supported by initiatives at UCL and real-world examples of successful projects. Throughout the episode, there's a recurring theme of the benefits of connecting people to nature, ensuring biodiversity, and enhancing community engagement.

Blanche also addresses the significance of having knowledgeable green infrastructure professionals and the challenges of integrating these practices into mainstream design and construction. She underscores the pressing need for action in face of climate change and biodiversity loss, advocating for a radical shift in how we value and implement environmental design.

The conversation concludes with an appreciation for the work of green infrastructure pioneers like John Little, highlighting his innovative approaches and the establishment of initiatives like the ‘Care and Capital Project’ to support community gardeners and promote sustainable practices.