Nature conservation and sustainability are advocacies we take seriously at Palafox. There have been numerous times wherein we had to beg off from taking big-ticket architectural and planning projects because the requirements went against our design principles and values. An example would be when we were hired as architects for a six-star hotel in Subic. We were instructed by the developer to cut down 366 70-year-old trees, but knowing the priceless benefits trees have, we returned the contract worth $1 million.
Whenever we commit to a project, we make sure that it does not violate our development principle of integral ecology — balancing social equity or people first with protecting and conserving natural environments, inclusive economic growth, culture, history and interfaith spirituality.
With our architecture projects, we always put forward green architecture principles and components in our designs. As much as we can, we emphasize the importance of green architecture to our clients and how it minimizes harmful effects on human health and addresses environmental sustainability. We are also privileged to be involved in master planning and urban planning projects that focus on sustainability and protecting natural environments.
We are a team of environment enthusiasts. We exert all effort to put into action our mission and vision of a sustainable future by participating in sustainable campaigns. In our office, single-use plastics are prohibited, and we limit the use of paper as much as practicable and repurpose our used paper. Our colleagues actively participate in environmental stewardship activities like tree planting and coastal cleanups.
“Pro Deo, Pro Patria et Terra.”
For God, for country, and the Earth. We at Palafox commit ourselves to the betterment of our country and our earth, not only in every line we draw, but also in our actions. Our office has been partnering with various organizations to give back to our Creator, our fellow countrymen, and our environment by supporting sustainable initiatives. Aside from the external activities, we have been sparing no effort in engaging patriotic and social projects as well and being proactive in incorporating sustainable practices in our office operations.
Throughout all the projects we engage in, we adhere to the principles of Green Urbanism. Green Urbanism promotes compact urban development to have zero carbon emission and zero waste. From different schools and theories like the Garden City of Tomorrow by Ebenezer Howard and the more recent theories of Compact Cities, Green Urbanism has evolved to fit the needs of modern times. Instead of going for a fragmented approach to planning, this concept attempts to integrate the necessary facilities, services, amenities, and utilities. This integrative approach of Green Urbanism reduces the need for automobiles and promotes walking and biking instead. Its compact aspect allows communities to preserve the agricultural and forest lands securing raw supplies for its nearby neighborhoods. More space will be available as well for parks and recreational spaces, fostering relationships among the area. Compact developments allow for shared utilities and infrastructure.
This concept is not limited to urban planning but encompasses the built environment as well. Sustainable architecture forms a crucial part in Green Urbanism, greatly reducing the negative impact of the built environment.
Tactical Urbanism is a recent concept that exhibits flexibility and encourages active participation and collaborative efforts from the government, locals, and other organizations. According to the Street Plans Collaborative, Tactical Urbanism is defined as “an approach to neighborhood building that uses short-term, low-cost, and scalable interventions and policies to catalyze long term change.”
