URBAN (RE)FORESTRY: THE COMMUNITY CARBON BANK

Abstract

Urban (re)Forestry - Community Carbon Bank, is an architecture that houses the community and doubles in use to lock carbon away for the maximum occupancy period of 99 years here in Singapore. This is done through: 1)the active protection of timber structural members, 2) employing a sacrificial facade in planned obsolence with cyclical replacement, 3) and down-cycling of said parts into communal furniture to prolong the usable lifespan of carbon-storing timber elements. This thereby aims to address the overlooked issue of embodied carbon within our industry. The nature of this thesis exploration is fundamentally based on Environmental concerns and how a new construction approach that prioritises timber as opposed to concrete as a construction material will consequently positively impact social attitudes towards sustainability. By the implementation of a Community Carbon Bank, the public will be engaged to participate in being part of the building’s life cycle rather than simply being an occupant. The thesis explores community engagement at various points within the building life cycle and believes that it is through active participation by the community that provides the best opportunity at sculpting a sustainable lifestyle.