On 25-26 April 2024, the Amsterdam Academy of Architecture had the honour of hosting the 4th Deans’ Summit of the European Association for Architectural Education (EAAE). The summit brought together thought leaders to address the critical and rapidly evolving challenges that impact our field and the world at large.
Addressing global challenges
Our discussions highlighted the urgent issues we face today: resource management, energy consumption, climate change, sustainability, economic shifts, environmental disruptions, conflict, demographic changes, migration, and disruptive technologies like artificial intelligence. The pace of these changes shows no signs of slowing down. Despite the complexities, we believe these challenges can be transformed into opportunities for progress.
The role of the building and construction sector
The building and construction sector significantly impacts our ecosystem and daily lives, contributing to nearly two-thirds of global carbon emissions. This includes both the construction and the use of built infrastructure. As architects and urban planners, we influence the use of land, with almost two-thirds of the world’s population now residing in urban areas, responsible for over 70% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
Keynote Lectures
At the summit, esteemed keynote speakers, including Floris Alkemade, Janna Bystrykh, Peter van Assche, and Maike van Stiphout, shared their insights on pressing issues and potential solutions.
Our responsibility and commitment
We recognise the immense responsibility we carry. It is our duty to contribute to fighting climate change, developing solutions for its effects, and promoting sustainability. Our role as educational institutions is crucial in serving society's needs and empowering the next generation of architects to transform these challenges into opportunities.
The summit reaffirmed our commitment to these goals, emphasising the importance of education in equipping future professionals to tackle these pressing issues and build a sustainable and inclusive future.