#whereintheworld

As we reflect on 2020, our hands were busy. Of course, as designers, we continued to create the ideas that were in our head to visual drawings on paper or should we say virtually on zoom. But what we remember and value the most is how we can use our hands to support and serve others. 

 It may sound cliche, but our collective hands working together can heal the world. Our broken climate and institutional systems can be restored. This is our intention at UDP for 2021. What is our place for advocacy and action in making the planet and the buildings we design better for all?

 Our Fall Book Club, “Climate Justice” inspired us in so many ways. Learning about the actions of individuals who are fighting for systemic change in the built environment illustrates how the voice of one can spark the way for change. Communities on the margins in Alaska, Iceland, Kenya and Canada are so closely impacted by rising ocean water, droughts, food insecurity and rural community job loss due to the shift from fossil fuel to renewable energy industry.  Complicated issues that are inextricably linked, but advocacy and action is moving the world toward the bent arc of environmental justice. 

That’s why we are taking the 1 Million Women Pledge.  https://www.1millionwomen.com.au/accounts/sign-up/ It’s one thing to advise our clients, but it’s another to actually do something. So, we signed up to support planet living climate change through everything we do. Our #unseen posts highlight these issues. This year we will add to these insights with #where in the world we have seen just solutions and the impact in our work.

 A new year brings renewed hope and purpose. We look forward to sharing what we learn and how our hands will be used for change for the greater good.