Urban Sequoia: Building a Carbon Negative Future | Kent Jackson | TEDxGoodenoughCollege

We have been led to believe that if we plant enough trees we can offset the damage we are creating by continuing to live, work, and build on our planet in the way we always have. But we need to address carbon emissions at the source, and the building industry is one of the biggest contributors. What if buildings could act like trees—capturing carbon, purifying the air, and regenerating the environment? Architect and SOM Partner Kent Jackson describes a future where “forests” of buildings create a new carbon-removal economy and a resilient future for cities. Having begun his career at SOM’s Chicago office, Kent relocated to London in 1999, where he leads projects throughout Europe and internationally. Under his leadership, the London office has undertaken numerous significant projects including the renovation of the United Nations’ Palais des Nations complex; the construction of a new JTI headquarters in Geneva; the design of Scandinavia’s tallest building, Karlatornet, in Gothenburg; and the award-winning Manhattan Loft Gardens, a 42-storey residential tower adjacent to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London.

As a leader of SOM’s climate action group, Kent strives to advance the firm’s pledge to meet the RIBA and AIA 2030 and 2050 commitments towards a net-zero built environment. In his role as Global Ambassador for the World Green Building Council, he works to amplify the call to action for governments and policymakers to accelerate the transition to net-zero carbon buildings.

[stevefranks]

Such an important subject. Very impressive content. I hope many people watch this and give it the serious attention it deserves. PLEASE SHARE IT WITH OTHERS!

[Itsdev]

What a phenomenal Talk!! Really enjoyed it.

[nigellusiuvenis]

Is this just a remote fantasy? Any roadmap how to achieve this? What are preventing mankind from practising this idea? Get to talk about the pragmatic part of this story.