Dear Readers,

In this edition MYOPIA we examine the varied meanings of sustainability, different for each of us, and why it’s critical to have a deeper understanding of the subject.

In 1849 American Walter Hunt invented the safety pin. It was to become one of the most lauded inventions through the 20th century and continues to be in use, much in the original form, into the 21st. Why did the safety pin last? The design was so simple and reductive, satisfying its intended function that it’s been impossible to upgrade. Minor changes may have been made but overall, Hunt’s design has remained pretty much intact. In other words, it’s sustainable. Curiously, Hunt invented the pin for an economic reason — a debt of 15$. He sold the patent to his invention and paid off his meager debt. Yet Hunt, as history records, never realized the true worth of his invention.

The safety pin satisfies a certain function but it does not satisfy many of the needs of human society. But what are these needs? Are these needs real or manufactured? British philosopher Alan Watts expounded that human beings are made to desire much more than what we need. Economics, which is at the heart of sustainability, is also the root of the word economical — being frugal or thrifty. Will the art of reduction be the path to designing for the future?

Our main article The Sustainability Paradox examines the four talks given by foremost sustainability experts at the recent Lopez Forum. In A 100 Words by Anthony Lopez, this time is about The Simple Truth about Design is Complicated. Catch Anthony’s quote about what the meaning of good design is.

Warmest regards,

Sujatha Shankar Kumar
Editor, LOPEZ Newsletter