Going Forward to Nature
Why Our Indoor Spaces Need Rethinking
Welcome to my Substack! I’m René, a Building Biology consultant and former electrical engineer from the Netherlands, now based in Southern India. If you've ever wondered how the spaces we live and work in can impact our health, you’re in the right place. My journey into this field started with personal experience; after facing health issues related to the built environment, I redirected my focus to exploring how buildings and indoor spaces impact human health. It’s been a journey that led me back to nature, one step at a time.
In this space, I'll be exploring how we can create healthier indoor climates through natural and sustainable construction practices. We’re surrounded by innovations, but I believe that technology should enhance life on Earth, not control it. Unfortunately, many new technologies are introduced without fully understanding their long-term impacts. As Wolfgang Maes, a leading building biology consultant, states, “Ignorance does not protect against consequences”.
What Is Building Biology?
Building Biology is more than a discipline; it’s a philosophy that advocates for buildings that support the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of their inhabitants. Every component matters, from the materials we use to the amount of natural light that fills our rooms. The indoor environment is, after all, where we spend most of our time. Yet, it’s also where toxins, synthetic materials, and electromagnetic radiation quietly accumulate, often without our awareness.
My goal here is to bring forward this awareness. I want to bridge the gap between complex science and practical advice, helping readers create spaces that truly support their health and well-being.
Why “Forward to Nature”?
As technology advances at breakneck speed, I believe that we’ve reached a “wizard’s apprentice” moment. Humanity has unlocked powerful tools but may not yet have the wisdom to wield them responsibly. Returning to natural principles isn’t about rejecting progress; it’s about making informed choices that respect life on Earth.
What to Expect Here
In upcoming posts, I'll be diving into topics like:
- The basics of Building Biology: understanding EMF, air quality, and the impact of materials.
- Simple ways to create a healthier home, even with small changes.
- Stories from my projects in India and beyond, where traditional wisdom and modern building science come together.
- Practical tips for those in the building trade, as well as for anyone interested in natural, healthy construction practices.
I hope you’ll join me on this journey toward creating indoor spaces that truly nourish us. Your comments, experiences, and ideas are very welcome here. Let’s make this a collaborative space for all who are curious about the future of our built environment.
Thank you for being here. Let’s go forward to nature!
Learn more about building biology by downloading your free introductory e-book!