(image: the amount of thermal insulation already exceeds the demand in construction)
Hopefully all architects see this fact as general knowledge: the architecture and building sector is responsible for almost half of the annual amount of greenhouse gas emissions. Even worse, buildings last longer than hardly any other man-made product. Energy-inefficient designs can keep us busy for quite a long time. Even if you don't trust in Al Gore’s apocalypse scenarios, fact is: earth resources are limited - and China's energy demand is at the state of Germany in 70ies. You may be sure it will rise.
Many architects and designers are doubtful about the new image of energy-efficient buildings. Does it consequently result in boxy building shapes? The end of glazing? Enormous building costs for building services (HVAC)?
Already the value of buildings isn't primarily related to its architecture. Essentially energy-efficiency should be prioritized. Done well, it can raise the price of architecture (importantly in real estate markets).
As long as building techniques don't change, architects have to get used to the increase of thermal insulation and thicker walls. Maybe it's a good idea to invest some money in these insulation firms.
