Today we went down to Cuba St. and visited the Victoria University of Wellington’s architecture campus where we learned about sustainable cities. The meeting here taught me an entirely different perspective I had never thought of. Learning that plastic packaging for groceries was far more wasteful than simple plastic bags was rather eye opening. Despite knowing that Starbucks’ decision to replace plastic straws with paper ones and a different lid is an example of greenwashing, my thinking never expanded to plastic bags.
Being able to see student’s projects was also interesting, especially the cardboard chair made from recycled materials. I thought this was a project that was mindful and would make others think more broadly about architecture.
Learning about the thought process behind rebuilding Cuba St. was also interesting. When the details were explained to us, it was interesting to see the amount of consideration put into building the entire street from social connection to weather changes.
