Cultural Ecology: Bridging Tradition, Identity, and Environmental Responsibility in Chinese project

The discussion of architectural sustainability is often dominated by a technocratic approach that focuses on economic, scientific, and planning metrics, neglecting the cultural and perceptual value of projects. Moving from the early eco-design movements of the 1970s and 1980s to a broader understanding of environmental and social responsibility, there has been a recognition since 2014 that architectural sustainability is not only about building techniques, but also about shaping the cultural and economic infrastructure of communities. Culture as the “fourth pillar” of sustainable development is recognized as an essential element in building identity, cohesion and resilience in communities (UCLG, 2010; UNESCO, 2014). Incorporating traditional elements into contemporary design is key to fostering identity appropriation of places and promoting a more balanced relationship between Man and Nature. This approach is particularly relevant in the Chinese context, where the relationship between architecture, environment, and landscape has historically been codified according to four pillars of the Chinese philosophy of harmony: with the sky (form and environmental quality), with the earth (space and built quality), with human beings (social cohesion), and with the self (personal quality of life). Through an overview of case studies, this article explores the concept of cultural ecology, emphasizing how space design can embrace the cultural and historical complexity of places to create spaces that foster not only environmental sustainability but also a sense of belonging and social cohesion.