about us
our story
“We are exploring the imperative shift from growth-centric models to resilient, adaptive frameworks. highlighting the importance of local resilience, emphasizing the need for self-reliance and adaptability in the face of global challenges”
Foundation DaST – Design a Sustainable Tomorrow was founded on the sustainable development model envisioned by Frédéric Coustols over 40 years of hands-on projects. After years in the corporate world of mergers and acquisitions, Frédéric recognised that the relentless pursuit of short-term profit had led to the degradation of natural and cultural resources. This realization sparked a passion for sustainability, deepened through psychoanalysis and global travel. Motivated by the destruction of biodiversity—like the disappearance of bees, frogs, and dragonflies—and the neglect of vernacular architecture, Frédéric developed DaST as a compass to fight against this loss. His vision is grounded in the belief that cultural and environmental landscapes must be preserved not just for their historical importance, but also to ensure a sustainable future. The Foundation’s mission is to promote thermodynamic balance and rethink how we live, build, and develop in harmony with nature, safeguarding the Earth’s beauty and resources for future generations.
At the heart of DaST’s approach is interdisciplinary collaboration, driven by the understanding that while modern specialisation has advanced knowledge, it has also caused us to lose sight of the interconnected whole. Inspired by Tao, which Frédéric read at age 14, DaST embraces a holistic perspective, acknowledging that every action has a ripple effect. The Foundation brings together experts from diverse fields to restore landscapes, conserve vernacular architecture, and develop models of sustainable living. This philosophy is reflected in DaST’s current project in Torrão, a small Portuguese village facing population decline and heritage decay. Torrão represents many communities globally that are experiencing the effects of post-growth economics—a phase where the focus shifts from constant expansion to sustainable practices. Over the next 5-10 years, Foundation DaST aims to revitalise Torrão by integrating its rich cultural heritage with innovative sustainability models, as case studies for similar communities worldwide. A project developed in straight collaboration with TARS association, thought its Convento da Terra, and the local community of Torrão.
our purpose
We are dedicated to making sure that unique places like Torrão are not only preserved but also improved. Our goal is to help the cultural and natural landscape of this places thrive while supporting its local community development. We do this through teamwork, awareness and creative ideas.
our vision
We envision a world where unique natural and cultural places harmonize with local communities, enabling both to grow and thrive together. In this future, communities flourish in a post-growth global economy, where natural and cultural assets are appropriately valued and utilized. Bio and cultural diversities are sustained, fostering resilience in local communities that remain open and adaptable. Education inspires and empowers the next generation to pursue this vision, creating a legacy of stewardship, growth, and balance for all.
our mission
We restore and protect natural and cultural landscapes as Torrão, in Portugal, and around the world. This means working together, using smart design, and awareness raising so that local communities can take care of their cultural and natural heritage.
our goals and actions
"We focus on restoring historic buildings, cityscapes, and natural landscapes, preserving and celebrating local crafts and art, empowering and revitalizing the local community, conducting research workshops and experimental projects, and curating responsible learning and leisure experiences for both local and international students and cultural travellers."
core values
Collaboration: Work with different people and groups for effective conservation.
Innovation: Use creative ideas for managing landscapes sustainably.
Integrity: Be honest, transparent, and ethical.
Empowerment: Provide people and communities with the tools and knowledge to make a positive impact.
Resilience: Adapt to changes in the environment and promote sustainability.
Inclusivity: Welcome diverse contributions to conservation efforts.
Education: Increase awareness and understanding of ecological issues.
Adaptability: Be and responsive to new challenges.
Inspiration: Connect people to nature and cultural heritage through creativity.
Stewardship: Taking good care of and protecting important cultural places.
Arts, Culture & Creativity: We recognize the importance of arts and culture in connecting people to landscapes, using creative expressions to foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of nature’s beauty and significance. We support artistic endeavors that highlight the cultural and natural heritage of the landscapes we protect, inspiring a collective sense of stewardship and conservation.
key objectives
Create Connections: Link together the landscape, historical buildings, traditional activities, and local habits to introduce a sustainable modern lifestyle.
Promote Sustainability: Support a way of living that values nature and cultural heritage, encourages biodiversity, and builds strong, open communities.
Educate & Empower: Inspire young people by involving them in real projects that show how to live sustainably and share these lessons globally.
key areas of intervention
Sustainable Practices: Promote and implement eco-friendly management and practices across all conservation efforts.
Climate Resilience: Develop and implement climate resilience strategies and mitigation efforts.
Ecosystem Protection: Oversee and implement strategies for safeguarding natural ecosystems and biodiversity.
Protect Natural Landscape: Implement and oversee measures to protect natural landscapes and biodiversity from tourism impacts.
Community Empowerment / Local Envolvement and Economic Opportunities: Engage communities broadly, create economic opportunities, and ensure community involvement in various conservation efforts.
Educational Initiatives / Workshops, Seminars, and Public Awareness: Develop and manage comprehensive educational programs and raise public awareness on conservation and sustainability.
Research & Innovation / Field Research and Knowledge Sharing: Conduct field research on ecosystems, cultures, and conservation techniques, and share knowledge and innovations across broader areas.
Infrastructure Development / Sustainable Design & Cultural Sensitivity: Oversee the development of infrastructure with a focus on sustainability and cultural sensitivity, ensuring that all projects align with conservation goals.
Collaboration & Partnerships / Local and Global Networks: Develop and maintain relationships with various stakeholders, including local organizations, governments, and international partners.
Monitoring & Evaluation / Impact Assessment and Reporting: Regularly assess the effectiveness of projects, gather feedback, and document and share progress and outcomes.
key actions
Communitt Envolvement: We engage with local people and experts, making our projects valuable learning experiences for future generations.
Teamwork: We collaborate with various groups and organizations to research and promote sustainable development.
Cultural & Educational Programmes: We create programs and activities that support local communities, improving their economic and social well-being.
Sharing Information: We set up ways to exchange knowledge and spread awareness about sustainable practices.
Below, the video of the making of “When West meets the Orient” theme. A landscape pulse from the Palacio Belmonte, by Philippe Fournier and Guo Qian, on the 31st of July 2011 in the Belmonte Cultural Club, Lisbon, Portugal.
