Structural Engineering & QOL

[Audio] Good Morning. I am Rannie Ison, President of R.S. ISON & ASSOCIATES. I am a Fellow and past president of the Association of Structural Engineers of the Philippines. So let me answer the question on "what do you think is the contribution of structural engineering to quality of life?" Structural engineering, as a specialized field within civil engineering, makes a unique and essential contribution to Quality of Life (QOL). From the perspective of a structural engineer, QOL encompasses the role of safe, resilient, and efficient structural systems in enhancing the well-being of individuals and communities. It is through building quality structures like buildings, bridges and dams that structural engineers contribute significantly to quality of life of people and the community..

[Audio] Let me explain how high rise buildings contribute to the six domains of quality of life. For PHYSICAL WELL-BEING: Buildings Provide safe and efficient living and working environments with modern amenities and safety features. For MATERIAL WELL-BEING: Buildings Enhance economic activity that provides job & business opportunities in offices and luxurious and comfortable living spaces. For SOCIAL WELL-BEING: Buildings Encourage community interaction through shared spaces like lounges, gyms, and rooftops. For EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING: Buildings - Modern and aesthetically pleasing designs and spaces offer personal satisfaction and comfort including relaxation and stress-relief opportunities. For DEVELOPMENT & ACTIVITY: Supports productivity in office spaces and promotes urban living that promotes shopping and leisure activities. Finally, for ENVIRONMENTAL WELL-BEING: Green Buildings Incorporate sustainable features like energy-efficient systems, water-saving technologies, and green roofs..

[Audio] Similarly, bridges and other transportation facilities contribute to quality of life domains as shown. These structures ensure safe and efficient transportation, reducing travel time and hazards; Connect economic hubs, facilitating trade and commerce and enhances property values in connected regions; Promote connectivity between communities, fostering cultural & social exchange & reduces social isolation in remote areas; Act as a symbol of engineering achievement, offering scenic views and community pride; Facilitate movement of goods & services, promoting development and encourages tourism and regional economic activities; and Help reduce carbon emissions by enabling more efficient transportation..

[Audio] Water structures like dams and reservoirs contribute greatly to quality of life. These structures Provide clean & safe water supplies for drinking, sanitation, & irrigation & provide flood control; Supports agriculture, industry, and renewable energy through hydropower; Improve living conditions by providing equitable access to water resources; Offer recreational spaces and scenic views that enhance community well-being; Drive regional agricultural and industrial development, ensuring sustainable development and long-term growth; and finally Promote hydropower generation, water conservation and flood control & management, supporting ecosystems.