This second edition of WATA in 2022 finds us in a world arguably on the precipice of self destruction. The earth has an alarming amount of atmospheric carbon dioxide growing at an unprecedented pace, severe heat event frequency is increasing—the hottest five years on record occurred in the last seven year period—and significant weather events have more than doubled in the last 40 years.  The outlook is full of doom and gloom, but there is hope… WATA has added a Sustainability Award category this year to acknowledge the significant role architects and the built environment play in contributing to and combating climate change. We may not be world leaders or scientists, but our industry collectively has both the capability and responsibility to help slow the effects of global warming in numerous ways, foremost by pursuing design solutions that reduce embodied and operational carbon. Subsequently, by putting sustainability thoughts at the forefront of design and engaging our clients/end users in respective discussions, perhaps we can encourage them to incorporate added sustainability initiatives into their own lives. I hope the inspiring, varied and esteemed entries in this edition of WATA and, in particular, the addition of the Sustainability Award, will further compel our profession to not only strive to create buildings that are beautiful to the eye, but also buildings that will ensure the beauty and integrity of Mother Earth will be preserved for generations to come

Brian Kleiver

President of the Jury 2022