It's unclear that one has to have formal training in order to make intelligent observations on a subject. In fact, being a member of the academy with professional credentials is no guarantee that the speaker has any wisdom or is offering valid opinions.
Whether Charles has "standing" to speak on the subject or not, he has advocated a manner of living that appears to bring convenience and contentment to many people, and his advocacy has brought this alternative into the public view more than it otherwise would be. That's a good thing. He does not pass himself off as an architect or planner, but merely encourages those who are. Whatever I may think of his silly religious and political views, I applaud him for trying to do something good with his life that will improve the world, when he is not obliged to do anything at all. Your view differs. Since I am evidently not going to persuade you and you are not going to persuade me, perhaps we should leave it at that.