On September 13, 2023, I had the unexpected honor of moderating a thought-provoking conversation on sustainable architecture and climate action as part of Connecting Minds Book Club, presented by Expo City Dubai and the Emirates Literature Foundation. While originally invited as a speaker, I stepped in as the moderator when the original host was unable to attend, drawing on my longstanding connections with both Dr. Sandra Piesik and Rashid bin Shabibto guide an engaging and insightful discussion.

The session centered on Dr. Piesik’s book, Habitat: Vernacular Architecture for a Changing Climate, which celebrates humanity’s ability to construct buildings that respond ingeniously to environmental and cultural conditions. Our conversation explored:

• Nature-Based Solutions & Climate Resilience – How traditional architecture can inform contemporary urban sustainability.

• Cultural Adaptation in Design – The role of vernacular architecture in preserving regional identity while tackling climate challenges.

• The Future of Sustainable Cities – Insights from Expo City Dubai, a model for sustainable urban planningahead of COP28.

Having first met Dr. Sandra Piesik in Milan in 2015 and worked with Rashid bin Shabib as an assistant curator for the UAE Pavilion Art Exhibition in Milan, I was able to navigate the conversation with a deep understanding of their work and perspectives. This familiarity allowed for a fluid and dynamic discussion, connecting the past, present, and future of sustainable design.

The session was a testament to the power of knowledge exchange, interdisciplinary dialogue, and the role of creative minds in shaping the future of architecture and climate action. It reinforced my belief that sustainability is not just about technology—it is about cultural heritage, human ingenuity, and rethinking our relationship with nature.