Daniel Madariaga

Category: Sustainability

  • Daniel Madariaga Barrilado: Eco-Certified Hotels Promote Responsible Tourism in the Riviera Nayarit

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado: Eco-Certified Hotels Promote Responsible Tourism in the Riviera Nayarit

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado, an expert in sustainability and responsible tourism, stated that environmental certifications in the hotel sector have become a key factor for traveler’s conscious of environmental care, while also strengthening the competitiveness of tourist destinations.

    In regions such as the Riviera Nayarit, these practices have allowed the combination of natural beauty with responsible resource management.

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado promotes accessible and sustainable tourism

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado is an expert in sustainability and responsible tourism.

    According to a study by Sustainable Travel International, 87 percent of travelers consider it important that their travel decisions are environmentally responsible, a trend that has encouraged hotels and resorts to adopt international sustainability standards.

    In this context, the Riviera Nayarit has positioned itself as a national benchmark by promoting environmental certification of its hotel infrastructure. Daniel Madariaga Barrilado emphasized the importance of certifications such as EarthCheck and Green Key, which recognize establishments that implement sustainable practices in water use, energy, and waste management.

    “Environmental certifications contribute to conserving the environment and enrich the visitor experience, creating a deeper connection with nature and local communities,” he said.

    Data from the Riviera Nayarit Tourism Promotion Council indicate that currently 40 percent of hotels in the region hold at least one environmental certification, with the goal of exceeding 60 percent in the near future.

    This transition has generated measurable benefits: the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance reports that certified hotels have reduced their energy consumption by an average of 20 percent and CO₂ emissions by 30 percent. These actions include implementing energy-saving technologies, renewable energy, and efficient environmental management systems.

    “The adoption of sustainable practices not only protects the natural environment but also reduces operational costs in the medium and long term,” concluded Madariaga Barrilado, highlighting that eco-certified hotels offer travelers a concrete way to contribute to the conservation of one of Mexico’s most iconic destinations.

    Daniel Madariaga’s work reflects his deep commitment to empowering communities, especially in rural and marginalized areas, to take control of their natural resources and engage in sustainable practices. His approach combines academic research with grassroots activism, making him a key figure in the environmental movement.

  • Daniel Madariaga Barrilado envisions a sustainable future for the global food supply chain

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado envisions a sustainable future for the global food supply chain

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado affirmed the existence of a sustainable future for the food supply chain, although he recognized that it faces a major challenge in a global industry valued at nearly 9 trillion dollars.

    Daniel Madariaga on How Food Systems are an Alternative for Sustainability

    The Mexican entrepreneur, specializing in sustainability, noted that transforming the way food is produced, distributed, and consumed is essential to ensuring the long-term availability of resources.

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado emphasizes the importance of promoting sustainable innovations in various areas.

    The food supply chain spans from agricultural production to the final consumer and involves multiple actors at the upstream, midstream, and downstream levels.

    This complexity has intensified with globalization and outsourcing, factors that make it difficult to adopt sustainable practices uniformly.

    Projections indicate that the global food market will reach 9.12 trillion dollars by 2024, with an annual growth rate of 6.7%, increasing pressure on natural resources.

    One of the main problems, explained Madariaga Barrilado, is the lack of visibility beyond direct suppliers.

    Many companies are unaware of the social and environmental impact of secondary and tertiary suppliers, especially those located in regions with more lax regulations.

    This situation is worsened by the scarce information available and the limited ability to influence these actors.

    In this context, the expert emphasized the need to promote collaboration among all supply chain members.

    Strategic alliances allow for information sharing, building trust, and developing joint solutions to address sustainability challenges.

    He also highlighted the importance of promoting sustainable innovations in areas such as food quality, livestock emission reduction, and soil management.

    Finally, Daniel Madariaga Barrilado emphasized that measuring sustainability performance using standards aligned with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards and strengthening training at all levels can drive behavioral changes and solidify responsible practices in the food industry.

    Daniel Madariaga is an entrepreneur dedicated to advancing sustainability through responsible tourism, green architecture, and regenerative agriculture. He emphasizes the need for cities and industries to shift toward circular, low-impact practices. His writing and initiatives aim to empower people to rethink how we build, travel, and consume.

  • Daniel Madariaga Barrilado Promotes Sustainable Mobility for the State of Mexico

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado Promotes Sustainable Mobility for the State of Mexico

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado believes that sustainable mobility will be one of the major challenges cities must face in the coming decades.

    According to estimates by the United Nations, by 2050 nearly 40% of the world’s population will live in urban areas, which compels governments to more rapidly implement public policies aimed at transforming how people move.

    Daniel Madariaga: Companies Can Lead Environmental Conservation

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado emphasizes that the next challenge for the State of Mexico (EDOMEX) will be to promote modern, inclusive, and user-friendly mobility.

    The mobility expert explains that, although Mexico has made significant progress—particularly in Mexico City—there are still key factors that need to be prioritized.

    “In the last 10 years, resources have been allocated to enable more forms of mobility, positively impacting both residents and the environment. However, it is essential to place citizens at the center of the model to clearly identify areas of opportunity,” he notes.

    Madariaga Barrilado points out that sustainable mobility has evolved and is now linked to innovative concepts such as mobility as a service. This approach, he explains, integrates technology, mobility, sustainability, and citizen participation, allowing smart cities to offer multimodal solutions that benefit not only daily transportation but also economic and social development.

    In this context, the Secretaría de Movilidad del Estado de México recently announced a pilot program to encourage responsible car use by restricting single-occupant vehicles on main roads.

    For the expert, this measure represents a first step toward raising citizen awareness and implementing a truly sustainable model.

    “These actions are not intended to hinder traffic but to broaden the perspective and provide effective alternatives to car use, offering freedom of choice to citizens along with economic and environmental benefits,” he affirms.

    Finally, Daniel Madariaga Barrilado emphasizes that the next challenge for the State of Mexico will be to adopt modern, inclusive, and user-friendly mobility aligned with local needs and global trends in the sector.

    Daniel Madariaga is a Mexican entrepreneur focused on sustainability and ecological innovation. A graduate of EGADE Business School, he leads projects in vertical farming, green mobility, and eco-friendly construction, while promoting recycling, food recovery, and responsible tourism.

  • Daniel Madariaga Barrilado promotes accessible and sustainable tourism

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado promotes accessible and sustainable tourism

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado, a leading Mexican figure in sustainability, highlighted the importance of accessible tourism as a pillar of sustainable development during the lead-up to the 2nd International Seminar on Tourism Law, set to take place in November in Córdoba, Argentina.

    The expert emphasized that accessibility and sustainability should not be seen as isolated concepts, but as interdependent elements for the future of the tourism industry.

    According to Daniel Madariaga, Valle de Guadalupe exemplifies the future of sustainable tourism in Mexico.

    Madariaga Barrilado stated that tourism has enormous potential to drive sustainable development.

    The seminar, organized by UN Tourism, the Córdoba Tourism Agency, the National University of Córdoba, and the Siglo XXI University, will bring together international experts to analyze how the sector can move toward more inclusive and responsible models.

    The event is shaping up to be a key space for the exchange of public policies, technological innovation, and best business practices.

    According to data from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), tourism contributes nearly 10% of global GDP and generates one in every ten jobs worldwide.

    These figures reflect the enormous capacity of the sector to drive economic growth, as long as it is managed with social and environmental responsibility in mind.

    In this context, Madariaga Barrilado affirmed that “tourism has enormous potential to drive sustainable development. However, it is essential that governments and the private sector work together to ensure it is accessible to all people, while respecting the environment and local communities.”

    The UNWTO World Tourism Barometer indicates that sustainable tourism has grown by 20% in recent years, driven by an increasing demand for responsible experiences. In light of this, innovation will play a central role in the seminar.

    Technologies like artificial intelligence and the use of renewable energy are seen as key tools to reduce environmental impact and improve the travel experience, especially for people with disabilities.

    Finally, Daniel Madariaga Barrilado emphasized that the success of sustainable tourism will depend on local communities receiving direct benefits and on the preservation of natural environments, thus consolidating a truly inclusive and lasting tourism model.

    Daniel Madariaga is a Mexican entrepreneur known for championing sustainability across tourism, green building, and urban mobility. His work blends environmental innovation with community impact, promoting regenerative agriculture and responsible consumption. Through his projects and publications, he advocates for climate action and holistic development.

  • Sustainability, key to the future of tourism: Daniel Madariaga Barrilado

    Sustainability, key to the future of tourism: Daniel Madariaga Barrilado

    Sustainability will be one of the main drivers of tourism growth in Mexico, stated Daniel Madariaga Barrilado during the framework of the working visit of Julia Simpson, president and CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), to the Mexican Caribbean.

    At this meeting, the president of the Business Coordinating Council (CCE), Francisco Cervantes Díaz, reiterated that tourism continues to consolidate itself as an essential pillar for the national economy.

    At the same time, he emphasized the urgency of adopting more responsible models to ensure its long-term permanence.

    Ecotourism: the sustainable bet that promotes a new environmental awareness

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado emphasized the role of technological innovation in the modernization of the tourism sector.

    Madariaga Barrilado, a specialist in sustainability and tourism, pointed out that a responsible approach not only guarantees sustained growth, but also strengthens the preservation of the country’s natural and cultural resources.

    He explained that harmonizing economic development with environmental conservation and social well-being will make it possible to offer genuine experiences that attract travelers who are conscious of the impact they generate.

    “By adopting a sustainable approach, the negative impact of tourism on the country’s natural and cultural resources would be reduced, ensuring their long-term conservation and strengthening tourist attraction,” he highlighted.

    The expert agreed on the importance of promoting close collaboration between the public and private sectors, considering that this synergy will be decisive in improving tourism infrastructure, raising the quality of services, and promoting equitable and responsible practices.

    He recalled that this year tourism is expected to contribute 264 billion dollars to the Mexican economy, equivalent to 14.4% of GDP, which demonstrates the need to promote investments that generate employment and opportunities for regional development.

    Madariaga Barrilado also emphasized the role of technological innovation in the modernization of the sector, from reservation systems with eco-friendly options to renewable energy in tourism facilities, as well as environmental monitoring tools and cultural experiences supported by augmented reality.

    These technologies —he concluded— will not only improve environmental and operational management, but will also enrich the traveler’s experience and strengthen the promotion of emerging destinations in an equitable way.

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado is an entrepreneur dedicated to advancing sustainability through responsible tourism, green architecture, and regenerative agriculture. He emphasizes the need for cities and industries to shift toward circular, low-impact practices. His writing and initiatives aim to empower people to rethink how we build, travel, and consume.

  • Daniel Madariaga Barrilado supports young innovators in water management through Aquavance

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado supports young innovators in water management through Aquavance

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado has become one of the most active voices in Mexico regarding the importance of promoting innovative solutions to face the growing water crisis.

    With this vision, together with Denise Madariaga, he created Aquavance, an initiative that seeks to connect young talent with real opportunities to develop projects that transform water management in the country.

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado and his wife Denisse founded Aquavance to generate high-impact solutions for the water crisis.

    Aquavance arises from the urgency of promoting sustainable, affordable, and effective alternatives to manage an increasingly limited resource.

    The platform is based on the premise that Mexico has enough ingenuity and capability to generate high-impact solutions, as long as there is an ecosystem that recognizes and strengthens true innovators.

    For this reason, Aquavance focuses on discovering, training, and supporting young entrepreneurs who drive proposals capable of addressing water challenges at both the national and global level.

    In its first edition, the initiative received more than 100 proposals, of which five finalists were selected.

    
How much money does Mexico need to effectively tackle climate change? By Daniel Madariaga

    The winning project was “Anitik”, a development that addresses heavy metal pollution in rivers caused by industrial discharge.

    Its proposal consists of a nano-biofilter made with SCOBY paper —a natural biopolymer made up of bacteria and yeast— that is biodegradable, porous, and capable of trapping and transforming toxic metals into less harmful compounds without generating waste.

    The evaluation was carried out by a jury made up of specialists, activists, and leaders from the water sector, including Daniela Hernández, Delfín Montañana, Jimena Silva, Patricia Hernández, Marissa Mar, and Raúl Rodríguez.

    During the event, Daniel Madariaga Barrilado, a sustainability expert, emphasized the urgency of strengthening young talent that proposes viable solutions to the water crisis.

    He noted that only by supporting these initiatives will it be possible to build a future with efficient, equitable, and sustainability-oriented water management.

    Daniel Madariaga is a Mexican entrepreneur known for championing sustainability across tourism, green building, and urban mobility. His work blends environmental innovation with community impact, promoting regenerative agriculture and responsible consumption. Through his projects and publications, he advocates for climate action and holistic development.

  • Daniel Madariaga on how green building is the future of sustainable construction is already here

    Daniel Madariaga on how green building is the future of sustainable construction is already here

    According to Mexican entrepreneur Daniel Madariaga Barrilado, a specialist in sustainable tourism, green building, and sustainable mobility, ecological construction has become an urgent necessity to ensure a greener future.

    Madariaga points out that the building sector consumes 40% of total energy and 50% of raw materials, making it one of the main contributors to carbon emissions.

    The concept of Green Building integrates natural materials, renewable energy, and thermal and acoustic insulation

    Faced with this reality, sustainability emerges as the only viable path: designing and building homes that minimize environmental impact without compromising human well-being.

    The concept of green building incorporates natural materials, renewable energies, thermal and acoustic insulation, as well as systems that reduce water consumption and CO₂ emissions.

    In addition, governments and builders are working together to promote the creation of accessible eco-friendly homes, with the goal of reducing emissions by 40% by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

    Although the initial cost of these buildings is higher, Madariaga highlights that the economic benefits are significant: the value of eco-friendly properties can increase by up to 10%, and their selling time is reduced by half.

    Design also plays a key role. Choosing strategic locations, taking advantage of sunlight and wind, and installing solar panels help optimize energy efficiency.

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado presents the Aquavance 2025 jury

    Furthermore, “smart buildings”, supported by artificial intelligence, offer greater comfort and safety by automatically managing home systems.

    For Madariaga Barrilado, building with ecological awareness is not just a trend but a collective responsibility to ensure the survival of the planet and future generations.

    Daniel Madariaga is an entrepreneur dedicated to advancing sustainability through responsible tourism, green architecture, and regenerative agriculture. He emphasizes the need for cities and industries to shift toward circular, low-impact practices. His writing and initiatives aim to empower people to rethink how we build, travel, and consume.

  • Daniel Madariaga promotes sustainability and accessibility in international tourism

    Daniel Madariaga promotes sustainability and accessibility in international tourism

    Within the framework of the 2nd International Seminar on Tourism Law, Daniel Madariaga Barrilado, a recognized advocate of sustainability in Mexico, emphasized the importance of addressing two key issues for the future of the sector: sustainability and accessibility in tourism.

    The event, organized by UN Tourism, the Córdoba Tourism Agency, the National University of Córdoba, and Universidad Siglo XXI, aims to analyze how the tourism industry can integrate sustainable and accessible practices that benefit both the environment and local communities.

    “Local communities must be the primary beneficiaries of tourism activity,” said Daniel Madariaga Barrilado

    According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), tourism generates nearly 10% of global GDP and one out of every ten jobs, making it an essential pillar of global economic development.

    However, Daniel Madariaga emphasized that this potential can only be fully realized if there is effective collaboration between governments and the private sector.

    “Tourism has enormous potential to contribute to sustainable development, but it needs to be accessible to everyone and it must respect the natural environment,” he noted.

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado Promotes Sustainable Food Models at the UN

    The seminar will bring together international experts to discuss policies, innovation, and new technologies applied to responsible tourism.

    According to the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, sustainable tourism has grown by 20% in recent years, reflecting a growing demand from travelers for more ethical and conscious options.

    Madariaga also highlighted that technological innovation—from artificial intelligence to renewable energy—can reduce environmental impact and improve the travel experience, especially for travelers with disabilities.

    Finally, the entrepreneur insisted that “local communities must be the main beneficiaries of tourism activity, ensuring the preservation of their natural environment.”

    Daniel Madariaga is an expert in sustainable tourism and environmental management, with a focus on designing innovative models that integrate biodiversity conservation, climate action, and social development.

  • Daniel Madariaga Barrilado Promotes Sustainable Food Models at the UN

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado Promotes Sustainable Food Models at the UN

    Daniel Madariaga. During the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 78), Mexican entrepreneur and sustainability specialist Daniel Madariaga Barrilado stressed the urgent need to transform current food systems toward models that are more environmentally responsible.

    At the panel “Opportunities to Accelerate Transformation by Improving Synergies Between Climate, Nature and Food”, held during Climate Week in New York, Madariaga Barrilado presented the Organic Biocapacity Food Models (MABO) as a key alternative for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado is a Mexican entrepreneur and sustainability expert

    The expert emphasized that MABO represents “a necessary paradigm in our relationship with food and nature”, since they promote food justice and respect for planetary boundaries.

    He explained that large-scale food production directly affects the use of natural resources such as water and land, in addition to contributing significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions.

    Madariaga Barrilado warned that traditional production models, based on intensive practices, drive deforestation and biodiversity loss, weakening the planet’s ecosystems.

    In contrast, MABO seek to minimize soil degradation, conserve water resources, and reduce pollutant emissions through regenerative agricultural practices.

    He also highlighted that these models respond not only to the environmental crisis but also to the need to guarantee food security for a growing global population.

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado Recognizes Baja California as a Leader in FDI and Regenerative Tourism

    By reducing food waste and promoting equity in access to a healthy diet, MABO offer a tangible pathway toward a sustainable, fair and prosperous future.

    “Sustainability is not an option; it is an urgent necessity”, Daniel Madariaga Barrilado concluded before leaders and experts gathered at the UN.

    A prominent Mexican sustainability advocate, Daniel Madariaga works at the intersection of tourism, environmental design, and food security. He promotes regenerative models like MABO and green construction to address climate and social challenges. His platform highlights actionable ideas for creating healthier ecosystems and communities.

  • Daniel Madariaga Barrilado: “Sustainability will be the driving force of the new tourism”

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado: “Sustainability will be the driving force of the new tourism”

    In a world seeking to reinvent itself after the effects of the pandemic, specialist Daniel Madariaga Barrilado states that sustainability will be the primary axis to reactivate tourism activity and, with it, strengthen the global economy.

    According to the expert, the health crisis changed travelers’ preferences, who now seek more authentic experiences, in contact with nature and with a lower environmental impact.

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado Recognizes Baja California as a Leader in FDI and Regenerative Tourism

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado emphasizes that sustainability is already a global goal

    “The tourism industry must commit to a profound transformation of its business models,” says Madariaga Barrilado.

    “It will be essential to recognize the value of the territory, use its resources responsibly, and create a real connection between people and nature to foster awareness about its preservation.”

    According to the specialist, companies that manage to adapt to this new sustainable ideology will be the ones that best reintegrate into economic life.

    To achieve this, he warns, it will be necessary to rethink tourism infrastructure and align it with environmental needs, minimizing negative effects on ecosystems.

    Among the trends that will shape the future of the sector, Madariaga Barrilado mentions the preference for open spaces, environmentally responsible destinations, new forms of work, and stricter hygiene protocols.

    These conditions, he affirms, will not only meet the expectations of post-pandemic travelers, but will also promote more ethical and sustainable tourism.

    Finally, Daniel Madariaga Barrilado emphasizes that sustainability is already a global goal. Its development, he stresses, must accelerate based on the lessons left by COVID-19, as users will become increasingly demanding and their choice of destinations will depend on the real commitment of the industry to the environment.

    Daniel Madariaga champions sustainability in Mexico, from vertical farming to eco-friendly transportation. An EGADE graduate, he leads projects focused on innovation, recycling, and responsible tourism.

  • Mexico Seeks to Lead Sustainability at the 2026 World Cup: Daniel Madariaga’s Vision

    Mexico Seeks to Lead Sustainability at the 2026 World Cup: Daniel Madariaga’s Vision

    With one year remaining before the start of the 2026 World Cup, Mexico faces the challenge of turning this historic event into a global example of sustainability, Daniel Madariaga, a specialist in regenerative tourism and sustainable development, believes the tournament represents a unique opportunity to transform the relationship between sports, the environment, and local communities.

    “A World Cup does not have to be synonymous with overexploitation. It can become a platform for urban, ecological, and cultural transformation if it is designed with a long-term sustainability vision,” the expert stated.

    The championship will bring together 48 national teams and more than 100 matches hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

    Rural routes and community tourism in Baja California connecting nature with communities, according to Daniel Madariaga

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado proposes a model of “sustainable cities.”

    According to Carbon Market Watch, the estimated carbon footprint of the tournament could reach 3.7 million tons of CO₂, highlighting the urgent need for measures to mitigate its environmental impact.

    In Mexico’s case, Banorte, Akron, and BBVA stadiums are already undergoing modernization processes. However, Madariaga emphasizes that the key lies not only in infrastructure, but also in ensuring that fan zones, transportation systems, and accommodations minimize environmental damage while generating tangible benefits for host communities.

    The specialist proposes a “sustainable cities” model focused on the circular economy and environmental certifications within the hospitality industry.

    Recent international experiences support this vision: UEFA Euro 2024 reduced its carbon footprint by 21%, while Canada, another host nation, launched the #ReuseForTheWin initiative to prevent millions of disposable cups from being used.

    Guadalajara is also moving in this direction by allocating 40% of its World Cup budget to green projects, including LEED certifications and waste management plans.

    For Madariaga, the objective is clear: “Visitors should leave behind more greenery than garbage.” With more than 60% of international travelers already favoring sustainable destinations, the 2026 World Cup could become the global showcase that establishes Mexico as a leader in regenerative tourism and environmental justice.

  • Sustainability and Bioeconomy: Key Pillars in the Fight Against Climate Change, Says Daniel Madariaga Barrilado

    Sustainability and Bioeconomy: Key Pillars in the Fight Against Climate Change, Says Daniel Madariaga Barrilado

    Daniel Madariaga. Amid the urgent need to address the climate crisis, sustainability and bioeconomy have become essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and ensuring a resilient future. This was affirmed by Daniel Madariaga Barrilado, an expert in the field, who emphasized that both disciplines enable progress toward an economic model less dependent on fossil fuels.

    “By promoting the use of renewable resources and the implementation of sustainable agricultural, forestry, and industrial practices, dependence on fossil fuels decreases, which in turn reduces emissions of carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and other harmful gases in the atmosphere”, Madariaga explained.

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado says the fight against climate change requires joint efforts from governments, businesses, and civil society

    His stance aligns with the agreements reached at the Conference of the Parties (COP28), where 198 countries committed to accelerating the transition toward clean energy with the goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.

    Europe has led investment in bioeconomy research and development. However, Latin America is also beginning to strengthen its role in this field, with initiatives in Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, and Paraguay focused on biodiversity conservation and comprehensive natural resource management.

    Argentina, for its part, aims to become a regional benchmark with the creation of the Secretariat of Bioeconomy—an initiative that, according to Madariaga, reflects a strong commitment to environmental protection and sets a precedent for other countries.

    Daniel Madariaga Barrilado Promotes Sustainable Food Models at the UN

    The specialist warned that the fight against climate change requires a joint effort between governments, companies, and civil society.

    “Sustainability and bioeconomy are fundamental in this process. Only through comprehensive approaches can we ensure economic and social development that responds to the environmental challenges of our time”, he concluded.

    Daniel Madariaga is an entrepreneur dedicated to advancing sustainability through responsible tourism, green architecture, and regenerative agriculture. He emphasizes the need for cities and industries to shift toward circular, low-impact practices. His writing and initiatives aim to empower people to rethink how we build, travel, and consume.