Chapter 6 Learning from the vernacular Basic principles for sustaining human habitats Roderick J. Lawrence Introduction Vernacular buildings are human constructs that result from the interrelations between ecological, economic, material, political and social factors. Human habitats in the Alpine region of Switzerland are interesting examples of the inter- section between these sets of factors, which have been modified over at least a thousand years. Given the changing nature of these factors, and the interrela- tions between them, it is unrealistic to consider an optimal sustainable state or condition of vernacular buildings, or any larger human settlement. Instead, it is more appropriate to discuss ways and means of sustaining this heritage in con- stantly changing human ecosystems. In essence, all human societies regulate their relation to the biosphere and the local environment by using a range of codes, practices and principles based on scientific knowledge and community know-how. Societies can use legislation, surveillance, monetary incentives and taxes, as well as behavioural rules and socially agreed conventions that define practices and processes in order to ensure their sustenance over many generations. All living organisms, individuals and species aspire to survival. The mechanisms used to sustain humans depend on their capacity to adapt to changing local conditions, such as climate and the availability of resources, espe- cially food. A human ecology perspective stresses that adaptive processes for 110 Suha Özkan 4410P VERNACULAR A/rev3 16/9/05 10:17 am Page 110