The eco-curriculum: Sustainability trends in education and research architecture

Educational institutions are, in essence, the fountains of knowledge within our society. Whether that’s finger-painting five-year olds in our primary schools, or PhDs in Philosophy, these are the places where innovation is born, where research pushes the boundaries of what’s possible, and where future generations are equipped with the tools to shape a better world. 

It’s only fitting, then, that these institutions should be at the cutting edge of sustainable architecture and design, leading the way in creating built environments that not only nurture learning but also demonstrate a profound respect for our planet. And, like many sectors and industries worldwide, the landscape of educational and research architecture is undergoing a profound transformation. 

Here, we delve into four key sustainability trends that will keep our learning institutions on the front lines of progress for years to come. 

More (or less?) than net-zero: Towards regenerative campuses

Educational institutions are pushing the envelope by advancing the reality of sustainability in campus design beyond the now-familiar goal of net-zero energy and carbon neutrality. They are embracing a more ambitious vision: regenerative campuses that actively contribute to the environment and the surrounding community.

At the core of the regeneration revelation? Closed-loop systems that can transform a campus into a functioning biosphere… of sorts. On-site water treatment and reuse, composting toilets, and waste-to-energy systems minimise the campus’s reliance on external resources, creating a more self-sufficient and resilient ecosystem. And let’s not forget the essential role of utilising sustainable building materials, such as responsibly sourced timber, which can reduce the carbon footprint of construction and, if managed properly, support biodiversity. By creating habitats for native flora and fauna, integrating green corridors, and promoting urban agriculture, campuses can become vibrant centres of ecological diversity. And, for these inherently inclusive institutions, the pursuit of social equity is paramount, ensuring their spaces are accessible, welcoming, and supportive of all members of the community.

Australia is at the forefront of this movement, with renowned educational and research hubs like the University of Wollongong and Monash University leading the way. In fact, the University of Wollongong’s Sustainable Buildings Research Centre stands as Australia’s first Living Building Challenge-certified project, offering a particularly compelling lesson in regenerative design principles. 

Living laboratories: Integrating research and design

While the phrase ‘living laboratories’ might bring to mind Frankenstein-like, dystopian visions, we’re glad to say the reality is quite different. In the sustainable architecture sense, ‘living labs’ seamlessly blur the lines between built environment and scientific inquiry. These spaces are not merely containers for methodical learning and research – they’re dynamic, immersive and engaging platforms for testing, monitoring, and optimising sustainable design strategies in real-world conditions.

The key? A living laboratory has to have a sophisticated monitoring system. Buildings are equipped with sensors and data collection systems to meticulously track energy performance, water use, and indoor environmental quality. This data provides invaluable insights into the effectiveness of sustainable design interventions, informing future design practices. Taking it a step further, these buildings often incorporate experimental design elements, with innovative technologies and materials that researchers can study and refine – creating an intricate and synergistic relationship between the built environment and the research conducted within it.

Of course, involving students in this process is absolutely crucial. By actively participating in research and data analysis, they gain hands-on experience with sustainable design principles, fostering a new generation of environmentally conscious professionals. 

Take it outside: Connecting with nature

The benefits of connecting with nature are well-documented, and even more so in our digital-first world. And, ever the enduring bastions of progress in our society, our schools and universities are putting the research into practice by not only bringing nature indoors – they’re actively taking the learning outside. While we’re seeing more generous integration of timber and other natural materials inside, there is a significant surge in the incorporation of outdoor learning environments in educational facilities – spaces that extend the learning environment beyond the confines of the classroom, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world and promoting well-being.

Courtyards, rooftop gardens, and green walls create opportunities for outdoor learning, recreation, and respite, ensuring a more stimulating and restorative educational environment. Natural playgrounds, crafted with organic materials and elements, encourage exploration, creativity, and a sense of connection that transcends the built-up expression of their urban context. And the outdoor classrooms – whether sheltered or open-air – offer unique settings for teaching and learning, enhancing engagement and genuinely fostering a meaningful and grounding sense of place.

Built entirely from bamboo and featuring open-air classrooms and natural play spaces that immerse students in nature, the Green School in Bali is a celebrated example of this approach. Closer to home, the University of Queensland’s St Lucia campus showcases a variety of outdoor learning spaces, including a native bee garden, demonstrating the educational value of these environments – and their versatility in different geographical settings.

AI-rchitecture and Des-AI-gn: Unleashing creativity and efficiency

See what we did there? Not only is artificial intelligence revolutionising the way we think about architecture and design, it’s revolutionising the process itself. Architects are increasingly harnessing the power of AI-powered generative design to explore a wider range of design possibilities and optimise building performance in unprecedented ways – and the education and research spaces, for obvious reasons, offer the perfect opportunity to put these explorations into practice.

Gen AI gives architects the power of ultra-rapid prototyping, generating thousands of design options based on specific parameters, such as environmental performance, structural efficiency, and aesthetic preferences. This allows architects to move beyond traditional design constraints, exploring innovative solutions that might not be readily apparent through conventional methods. Using AI to maximise natural light and ventilation, optimise acoustic performance, and create a dynamic and inspiring learning environment all simultaneously? This efficient way to design is fast becoming a reality, empowering architects to push the bounds of creativity while creating truly sustainable and responsive spaces.

These trends represent not just a shift in design, but a fundamental re-evaluation of the role of educational and research institutions in a sustainable future. It’s about recognising that these spaces, as incubators of innovation and enlightenment, have a responsibility to lead by example in all facets of their being. It’s no longer just buildings that are being designed; these are holistic environments being shaped for future generations. Ultimately, for educational and research spaces to truly achieve their potential in educating, inspiring, and nurturing a thriving planet, these sustainable strategies must be embraced as integral, not incidental – and it’s comforting to see that we’re already well on our way.

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Image: Clifton Hill Primary School by Jackson Clements Burrows Architects was shortlisted in last year's Education & Research category / Photography by Peter Clarke