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NSW famers struggle in weeks after floods

ABC News

a day ago

Business
ABC News

NSW famers struggle in weeks after floods

In the weeks since floods ran through the Mid North Coast, farmers say they're struggling to feed livestock.

Why we must change our attitude toward 'old' buildings

Fast Company

a day ago

Business
Fast Company

Why we must change our attitude toward 'old' buildings

I've witnessed firsthand how attitudes toward existing buildings in need of a second life have evolved over the years. What were once considered blighted properties—or more mildly put, 'outdated buildings'—were met with wrecking balls. How we approach older structures now, not as burdens or obstacles, but as valuable assets that contribute meaningfully to a community's character and future, is a total transformation in the public's perception. This mindset shift reflects a broader recognition that the past is not something to be discarded, but to be celebrated, preserved, and reinvigorated. One of the most compelling aspects of adaptive reuse is the way it engages with a community's emotional and historical connections to its built environment. Over the years, I've seen that people develop deep affinities for the buildings that are part of their lives—whether because of personal memories, cultural significance, or their role in the daily rhythms of a neighborhood. However, while the emotional attachment to these buildings remains strong, their usefulness can atrophy over time. The infrastructure may age, and the original purpose of a building may no longer align with contemporary needs. In these cases, adaptive reuse becomes a bridge, a way to honor a structure's legacy while giving it new life. The balancing act It's a delicate balancing act between preservation and innovation, and it's a process that excites me—because it offers the opportunity to not only preserve the past but also activate it in a dynamic and forward-thinking way. My architecture firm recently transformed a 1930s-era Sears department store into a mixed-use block including more than 200 new apartments, as well as 50,000 square-feet of retail space. By combining housing and shopping, we create greater density, purpose, and connectivity, which enlivens cities like Chicago, where this project is located. By repurposing old buildings, we also retain a sense of continuity—an important link between generations. It's a strategy that works best when integrated into a broader urban plan. Sometimes, an existing structure may not reach its full potential until it is complemented by new projects that bring additional vibrancy and utility to the area. In this way, the new and the old coexist, enhancing each other and helping to create a richer, more complex urban fabric. Retaining an existing building can also reduce the embodied carbon footprint of an entire project. Ultimately, adaptive reuse is a key strategy for creating sustainable and community-centered development. It aligns with a growing recognition that buildings are more than just physical structures—they are symbols of history, identity, and shared experience. By embracing the creative potential of these spaces, we not only preserve their legacy but also provide the foundation for future generations to build upon. This holistic approach to development is essential for fostering resilient communities that honor their past while looking ahead to the future.

Oman: Eco-friendly practices at OCEC boost visitor experience

Zawya

26-05-2025

Business
Zawya

Oman: Eco-friendly practices at OCEC boost visitor experience

MUSCAT: The Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC) is recognised for its sustainable operations and world-class facilities as research findings provide evidence that the centre's sustainable event management practices create a positive link to increased visitor satisfaction. Sustainability is gaining popularity in the tourism, hospitality and event management sectors due to socioeconomic and environmental concerns. Convention and exposition facilities like the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre play a crucial role in generating income and satisfying visitors. By implementing sustainable practices such as waste management, energy efficiency and eco-friendly design, they help address environmental issues; and attract customers and tourists with their eco-friendly operations. Research investigating the impact of sustainability integration at convention and exhibition centres on visitor satisfaction and strategic decision-making has shown that the use of sustainable materials improves sustainability prospects by contributing to the design of green buildings. The Oman Centre has also actively engaged with communities by forming relationships with local organisations, promoting recycling programmes and installing over 8,000 solar panels for energy efficiency, which significantly impacts guest satisfaction. Survey results indicate that 76 per cent of participants are aware of the sustainable practices at the facility, with factors like sustainability influencing event attendance and recommendations from respondents. Strategic landscape techniques and a 4.6-megawatt rooftop solar power system have contributed to water conservation, while energy-saving measures have had the most significant impact on visitor experience. While some tourists suggest a no-plastic zone, the installation of electric vehicle charging stations and other energy-saving measures have made a significant impact. Overall, the Centre's sustainable practices have enhanced guest experiences and made Oman a more appealing destination. The study suggests potential improvements such as installing intelligent power management systems and digital documentation systems to reduce paper usage. The OCEC, along with other events, sets leadership standards that position Oman as an innovation leader in sustainable development and tourism practices. The research emphasises that sustainable choices lead to memorable experiences and lasting impacts, as global environmental responsibility continues to grow. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (