Concrete: Care and Cultural Value

This lecture discusses the significance of concrete as a ubiquitous material in modern infrastructure. It highlights how concrete, while essential, often goes unnoticed despite being the second most used material on Earth after water. The instructor emphasizes the environmental impact of concrete production, particularly its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. The lecture also addresses the challenges of maintaining concrete structures, which are vulnerable to decay and require ongoing repair. The importance of recognizing the cultural and material value of existing buildings is stressed, advocating for a shift in perspective towards viewing buildings as evolving entities that require care and attention. The instructor calls for practices that honor the heritage of concrete structures while adapting them to contemporary needs, urging a more sustainable approach to construction and maintenance. The discussion includes the ecological consequences of extracting materials for concrete and the necessity of valuing and preserving the built environment for future generations.