Active hope: why process matters in regenerative design
By Dr Matthias Irger
Climate Action Week reminds us that change requires persistence in our actions every day. This year’s theme, ‘Active Hope,’ is particularly resonant. On its own, hope is not enough; it must be backed by commitment, by process, by active steps that turn intent into reality.
In the built environment, there are no shortage of challenges when it comes to sustainability and regeneration. We need to move beyond just minimising harm to a design ethos underscored by ways that actively restore, regenerate and enhance the natural world and the communities who inhabit it. At COX, we believe the key to achieving this is in the process. The tools we use, the knowledge we share, the voices we amplify and the way we continuously interrogate and refine our approach all shape the regenerative outcomes we seek.
Beyond lip service: the role of process in real impact
Committing to designing regeneratively is a constant process of learning and evolution. We don’t claim to have all the answers, but we are committed to asking the right questions and co-creating solutions with industry peers, researchers and communities. A truly regenerative future will not come from business as usual, nor from isolated efforts. It will come from collaboration, knowledge-sharing, storytelling and from innovating with purpose.
So, what does this look like in practice?
Tools for transparency and accountability
Transparency is one of the biggest barriers to sustainable design. Without the right information, how can architects, developers and clients make informed choices? This is why COX along with contributing practices; Bates Smart, BVN Architecture and Susty Spec developed Product Aware, in conjunction with Australian Architects Declare. It is an industry-first tool that helps improve transparency in material selection. By equipping the industry with better data, we can make better choices that reduce embodied carbon, improve circularity and prioritise responsible sourcing.
[below: Product Aware launch events across Australia]
Knowledge sharing: a collective approach to change
No single organisation can solve the climate crisis alone. That’s why knowledge sharing is fundamental. Events like Climate Action Week provide vital opportunities to exchange insights, challenge assumptions and inspire action—within our teams and across the industry.
Beyond Climate Action Week, our engagement in industry forums such as the Green Building Council of Australia and our partnerships with UNSW, UTS and the University of Wollongong, ensure that our work is informed by the latest research and best practices. Investing open dialogue helps us push boundaries and accelerate meaningful change.
Designing with Country: fundamental to restoring the socio-ecological balance
Regenerative design is deeply rooted in and strengthens relationships with place. Designing with Country is a fundamental yet often overlooked part of this process. At COX, we actively listen to First Nations voices to integrate Indigenous knowledge into our projects. This involves genuine co-design that respects and prioritises Country, culture and community in meaningful ways. The lessons we learn from Traditional Custodians can help us shape a built environment that is more connected, resilient and regenerative. Our COX Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan recognises this commitment.
[below: the process of creating ‘Buugang,’ a weaving by Artist Jessika Spencer for our Reflect RAP]
Applied Research: progress through ingenuity
An industry-wide transition to a zero-carbon economy is well underway. Innovation is vital to drive the change at the speed required, particularly around decarbonisation, circularity and resilience. Our in-house research and analysis allow us to reflect, evolve and develop solutions that improve our designs. Our collaborations with leading universities enable us to continuously interrogate materials, systems and new technologies to advance our design process. Research informs our work on everything from how we understand place, to renewable material innovations, through to strategies towards a zero-carbon future.
Active hope in action
If we are to truly embrace the theme of Active Hope, we must understand that hope is not passive. It is built through action, accountability and the daily commitment to do better.
The projects we undertake, the materials we specify and the people we collaborate with can foster a step towards a more sustainable and regenerative future.
The built environment can and will shape the future. For us at COX, the answer lies in the process. And that process is one of listening, learning and always pushing forward.
This Climate Action Week, we reaffirm our commitment: every design decision we make should contribute positively to people and the planet. It’s not about perfection, but about progress. Let us work together with a shared sense of determination to build a better, brighter and climate-positive world for all.
[below: Eden Port Welcome Centre]
