21st Century Sustainable Architecture through the Lens of Renzo Piano’s California Academy of Sciences: An Exhibit for Sustainability or for Technological Innovation? Part 1 Dissertation 2022 Nasser Albuhumaid University of Salford Salford | UK World-renowned architect Renzo Piano (1937-) is one of the most notable architects that approached the modern sustainable architecture movement through the implementation of innovative technological solutions, which is evident in the California Academy of Sciences (CAS). However, does this technology-dependent approach to sustainable architecture in the 21st century prove to be beneficial and practical? or are we straying away from the basic principles of sustainable design in pursuit of spectacle, green-washed architecture?The purpose of this dissertation is to delve deeper into the meaning of sustainability in architecture by proposing a holistic and radical approach to it. Through analyzing Renzo Piano’s CAS with regards to the pillars of sustainability, the dissertation aims to critique the 21st century sustainable architecture movement, unveiling the consequences of its technology-dependent approach on our societies (Gregory, 2008). This will be achieved in three consecutive chapters; theoretical context, building analysis, and critical discussion. Tutor(s) Athena Moustaka Tanja Poppelreuter