The terms resiliency and sustainability, although similar in meaning, refer to different design approaches in the context of architecture and cities. Sustainability involves the preservation of natural resources to uphold ecological equilibrium, while resiliency entails the ability to rebound, adapt, and persist in moments of adversity. These concepts greatly influence and complement each other, especially in cases of designing disaster-resilient buildings. Conventional design processes relating to resilient infrastructure have been based on principles of structural robustness and integrity as a measure against anticipated natural disasters. However, sustainable resiliency points at the opportunity of reinforcing buildings by embedding them in biological and ecological systems.
In present day scenarios of changing climates and fast-paced technological disruptions, architects seek solutions that enable buildings to withstand known and unknown disasters. Resilience, a critical concept in disaster preparedness, is defined differently across various fields, from engineering to ecology. Theory and practice around disaster-resilient architecture has often focused on resistance to natural hazards and recovery after them. As we face a future of unprecedented change and uncertainty, a new approach is required to ensure that buildings and infrastructure can not only withstand shocks but also adapt to constantly evolving circumstances.
