The next step after evaluating each case study was to create an intitial set of equity recommendations. The recommendations are structured by using the SLS Teaching Tool. Each framework has its own recommendations so that future living buildings may excel the qualifications of the equity petal.
Culture: A Right to Belong
The first is the right to belong. This describes the welcoming nature of the building. A building must be accommodating to all, respectful in design, and convenient to use. An equitable building enhances the already present local culture and environment; it should be complimentary, not hindering.
To implement this, we recommend:
- Mandate implementation of specific, long-term programs to engage community voices and perspectives.
- Focus groups and panels starting from the design stage to gauge interest and gain information regarding design, function, and management.
Community Engagement
Community engagement is also an important factor. It outlines the importance of the environment around the building. For a building to be socially sustainable, it must recognize and uplift the surrounding community in which it is built. Additionally, if there is any sort of history that should be addressed, the building doesn’t shy away from that but rather will use it for educational purposes and to uplift voices affected by it.
To implement this, we recommend:
- Require the completion of an asset map and community research.
- Foster a more authentic, nuanced understanding of the surrounding area and the people that inhabit it.
Enhance the Local Environment
A sustainable building should also enhance the local environment. The building should not hinder the physical surroundings either. Rather, it will understand how the living and nonliving environment around it is affected by the new physical structure. Furthermore, it will not worsen any existing issues nor create new ones if it can be helped. The environment should remain well-kept and inviting with the addition of sustainable buildings.
To implement this, we recommend:
- Consider transportation and external barriers that prevent equitable access.
- Introduce an emphasis on accessibility in the built environment, such as ramps, railings, and handicap doors.
Economic Justice
Economic justice highlights the values kept by the building along with the treatment of workers. A sustainable building should value the fair treatment of all. It should create jobs that encourage meaningful careers for people. It is imperative that the building does not exacerbate any current or residual income inequality within the community.
To implement this, we recommend:
- Requiring more than two organizations to complete JUST labels
- Closing loopholes for exemption of community donations and support
- Requiring training and a local employment program to increase labor supply and utilize assets in the surrounding community.
- Pay and compensate community contributors through the whole building life cycle for their work.
- Center social sustainability and opportunities
- Dedicate human capital, careers, and jobs to equity development
- Require involvement of various members of the community with lived experiences and invested interest in equity and community development
Define and Track Equity
Defining and tracking equity is how we measure the consistency of sustainability within a building. How does the building continue to value equity throughout its use? Beyond the construction and certification phases, the building should continue to support, promote, and prioritize equity and sustainability. Finally, when defining equity, we must make sure to have language that is clear and accessible so that our metrics for sustainability are fair and understood.
To implement this, we recommend:
- Introduce routine evaluations to measure how equity and equity-related parameters have increased
- Assign role positions dedicated to tracking equity of building post-construction