LECTURE 1: The Production of Built Environment

"What is build environment?" "Look at your surroundings, what can you see?" My professor asked. For me, build environment are those aspects of our environment modified by human such as residential areas, industrial areas, schools, workplaces, parks, roads and highways. It is a manmade surroundings that provide the setting for human activities. There are six basic elements that affect the build environment which are SITE, RULES, ACTOR, INTENTION, ACT and PRODUCTION.

Humans undergo millions of years of evolution from a tiny cell. We are gifted with a highly developed brain capable of abstract reasoning, language and thinking skills. Humans make full use of their ears, eyes and brains through observing and thinking. But people from all walks of life has different ideas, feelings and needs. Humans' needs provoked built environment. The main professions which involved in built environment are architects, planners, engineers and quantity surveyors.

Different people have different thoughts and mindsets. Some people wish to control the world, some wish to have a better living place. With all these intentions, they drive humans to another higher level where knowledge is needed to pursue their objectives. Knowledge is power. It controls access to opportunity, advancement and it can take a person to the realm of success. Everyone wants to have a better living places. Nowadays, we are slowly destroying the mother nature. Who are we to destroy the environment? Natural resources like petroleum are depleting because we are so dependant on it for our daily usage. Therefore, humans are the main culprit in destroying the nature.

Humans are abide by rules, customs, laws and ideology. We believe in what we are holding on. Whether the decision is right or wrong, it depends on which one we choose to follow. Let the mind do the thinking and follow our heart in making a decision. For example, Malaysia is a multi-racial country and this is where Malaysians first accustomed to the vibrant, indigenous cultures and customs from different races. In some ways, it influences our ideologies and lives. Rules and laws exist in order for us live in harmony and peace. A better understanding of these can ensure we live in peace. But some people are breaking the rules for their own good. As an example, there are thousands of illegal loggers are making their profits by cutting down the trees for development. Forests are being clear for building skyscrapers. All these acts are against the rules. The government should emphasize on the importance of environment to us which can raise awareness among the citizen. We should promote greener and less energy consumption development.

Although build environment is essential for us but terrestrial ecosystem sustainability should be maintained. A balance development and environmental protection are important for acommodating growth while preserving our mother nature. Humans often consider themselves the dominant species because their mental capability are well developed compare to other species. We think we are clever and have the ability to manage the environment. But if f we keep on destructing the environment, where can we live? Therefore, we shall think before we act and reflect what have we done.