About this episode
Understanding climate action through the words we useKeep an ear out for an easter egg after the outro on this one.The words we use matter. Terms like "sustainability”, “net zero” and “resilience” signify our industry's evolving priorities and concerns. These “buzzwords” reflect current cultural circumstances within the AEC industry and larger society while also actively shaping how we approach and address these issues. In this episode will be exploring the meanings and relationships between many of the current buzzwords that are alive in the AEC today. If you’ve ever wanted to deepen your understanding of words and terms like “sustainability”, “net zero”, “embodied carbon”, “circular economy”, “resilience” or “adaptation” you’ll appreciate this interview w/ Kjell Anderson of LMN Architecture in Seattle.Yes, buzzwords come and go. We routinely air quote them somewhat irreverently. But do not be fooled - buzzwords are also important. Far from being superficial, these trends in language mark the emergence, acceptance, and eventual integration of new, often significant, ideas. When a word gains prominence, it often signals a collective reckoning with the issue it represents. Conversely, when it fades, it may indicate that the idea has either been absorbed into the mainstream, superseded by more urgent concerns, or—sometimes quite worryingly—been deprioritized.Dictionary definition of “Buzzword”: (pejorative) A word drawn from or imitative of technical jargon, and often rendered meaningless and fashionable through abuse by non-technical persons in a seeming show of familiarity with the subject.Kjell AndersonKjell is LMN’s Director of Sustainable Design and leader of LMN’s Green Team, spearheading initiatives into energy modeling, materials + health, and water use reductions. With 24 years of experience, Kjell is well-regarded at local and national levels as a sustainability ex
