This week we are discovering the depths of Ecological Design. The author of this week’s reading defines ecological design as “any form of design that minimizes environmentally destructive impacts by integrating itself with living processes”. (Cowan, S & Vanderyn, S. 2007) This clearly defines the way we need to think about the design process to create ecologically responsible designs. For designers this means respecting all elements of nature and the environment throughout the design development process. By taking into consideration the resources we are using and how they are replenished, as well as the impacts of manufacturing those resources. Through consideration of the natural environment in which we are building designers can minimise the impact of the natural species and habitats within those environments and develop design solutions that work in harmony with nature, integrating “human purpose with natures own flows, cycles, and patterns”. (Cowan, S & Vanderyn, S. 2007)
The topic of scale linking was another new concept to me, the theory that “everything influences everything around it”, be the scale small or large everything holistically interacts with its surrounding environment creating varying scales of impact. Scale linking is crucial for designers if we are going to consider and address the unique interconnectedness of ecological environments and the consequences our design choices make on those ecological systems. Scale linking enables designers to develop a sustainable approach that creates harmony between human and ecological well-being.
Eden Projects Biomes (Ackers, L. 2021)
A project that I personally love that embodies scale linking throughout its design is the Eden Project in Cornwall, UK. This is an excellent example of scale linking in the ways it connects local and global scales through its architecture, ecological systems, and educational mission. The two giant biomes within the site replicate the mediterranean and rainforest ecosystems, this creates a localised link to global ecological systems. The renewable energy use and rainwater harvesting is a local response to global sustainability goals. The educational programs within the project highlight the interconnectedness of local actions to global impacts. (Ackers, L. 2021)
Inside the Biomes at the Eden Project (Ibrahim, N. 2021)
This project has successfully used its design to create a systems-thinking mindset that demonstrates how actions at one scale (local) affect another scale (global). This is why designers play such a huge role in the interconnectedness of these systems. Our design decisions made at small local scale contribute to the larger global scale and impact the larger ecological systems. This project proves that by designing with a holistic approach that engages the principles of ecological design we can fulfil our vital role in shaping a sustainable future that integrates humans with the living flow of nature. (Ibrahim, N. 2021)
Bibliography:
Ackers, L. 2021. Everything you need to know about The Eden Project, Cornwall. https://www.hpb.co.uk/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-eden-project-cornwall/ Accessed on 15/11/2024
Cowan, S & Vanderyn, S. 2007. Ecological design: with a new introduction by the authors. Island Press. Washington. 10th Edition
Ibrahim, N. 2021. The Eden Project in Cornwall, United Kingdom by Grimshaw. https://amazingarchitecture.com/exhibitions/the-eden-project-in-cornwall-united-kingdom-by-grimshawAccessed on 14/11/2024
