How can you design sustainable infrastructure that is also visually appealing?

I consider that the most important step in sustainable design relies in the planning phase. It is during this time where crucial information is defined, like budget and time constraints, stakeholders interests, and user needs. In my experience working in the medical device industry, I have observed a drastic change in embracing sustainable designs for this industry. For instance, in the past, single-used plastics to avoid cross-contamination or patient infection was fairly common. Nevertheless, advancements in materials engineering has enhanced the adoption of reusing and recycling medical grade plastics without compromising their performance, changing designs or affecting the patient.

The first step is to identify the goal of the project and constraints to the client. Also provide other option as much as possible if you think that the client's goal to the project is not possible.

The Define Phase of Project (Concept, FEED), does this beautifully. The core issue to be worked out here, is the breadth and depth of design- how much, where, future expansion to the defined project etc all play a key role in these phases

Crafting sustainable and visually appealing infrastructure entails incorporating energy-efficient systems and environmentally conscious materials. Prioritize the use of eco-friendly materials in construction and employ efficient energy systems, such as advanced HVAC technologies. Emphasize recycling and waste reduction throughout the project lifecycle. From a mechanical perspective, the challenge is to seamlessly integrate sustainable practices into the design and functionality of mechanical systems, ensuring both environmental responsibility and an aesthetically pleasing outcome.

Designing visually appealing, sustainable infrastructure in mechanical and civil product design involves choosing eco-friendly materials, integrating green elements like living walls, and infusing innovation through unique design features. Prioritize energy efficiency with technologies like solar panels and engage the community to ensure the infrastructure meets both functional and aesthetic expectations. Consider water-efficient systems, resilient design principles, and thoughtful lighting for a holistic approach, defining a new standard for sustainable and captivating infrastructure in both realms.

Provide other options if the idea of the client is not possible or due to budget constraints. You can use various ways such as modelling presentation by the use of design softwares such as revit and CAD , meeting with client to discuss the options provided.

The use of natural resources even in Oil and Gas industry is something that has been picking up in recent years- with more awareness of climate impact- e.g. Use of CO2 for injection in wells rather than natural gas, Use of Sea-Water injection instead of Aquifer water and so on.... good initiatives for sure

As an engineer I'll always bend towards feasibility before planning, a conceptual study enumerates possible designs/solutions before settling for the best options considering CAPEX/OPEX, planning is the next phase after design is firmed. Other key aspects of QA/QC & project management like responsibilities matrix, work breakdown structure and scheduling have to come to the fore to ensure the project is delivered to client satisfaction and timely also.

Choose the best option that meets all the project criteria like the performance, efficiency, aesthetics and durability of the project. Also ensure that the chosen option is suitable to the budget of the client.

The aesthetics of the project- within oil and gas industry- should be determined during early design phase- more from the perspective of future expansion aspect, as well as approach, positioning to connect by roads, ports etc, as well as larger plot sizes for individual packages expansion and access.

One thing I've found helpful is to find an example of an existing finished project that meets the criteria of your option and discuss it to the stakeholder,user,and the public that it is actually feasible.