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Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Cooling Our Environment by Kalpana Sutaria is an enlightening exploration of sustainable architecture and its crucial role in combating climate change. As an architect with decades of experience, Sutaria combines personal anecdotes, scientific research, and professional insights to present a compelling argument for urgent action in addressing global warming. The book begins by outlining the devastating effects of climate change, including extreme weather events, rising global temperatures, and their toll on vulnerable populations. Sutaria emphasizes the significant contribution of buildings to greenhouse gas emissions and the necessity of sustainable construction and urban planning practices. She offers an engaging perspective by incorporating her experiences, from a childhood in Ahmedabad, India, to her professional work in Austin, Texas.
The book explores historical and vernacular architecture, showcasing ingenious designs adapted to local climates long before modern technology. From the ancient step-wells of India to traditional homes in Greece and Japan, Kalpana Sutaria illustrates how these structures can inspire today’s architects to create environmentally responsive designs. The images throughout the book enhance the text. The pedestrian and bicycle bridge over Town Lake in Austin is among my favorites, with its unique design, and the contrast of cultural architecture is most fascinating. Sutaria’s passion for sustainability is evident in each chapter. With its technical expertise and heartfelt storytelling blend, Cooling Our Environment will educate and motivate readers to work toward a sustainable future. This book should be in every school and used as a learning tool for current and future generations to understand the responsibility for preserving the planet. I highly recommend it to global sustainability, architecture, and culture readers.
