Ecological Urbanism: a Framework for the Design of Resilient Cities

Abstract

Ecological urbanism weds the theory and practice of city design and planning, as a means of adaptation, with the insights of ecology and other environmental disciplines. Ecological urbanism is critical to the future of the city and its design: it provides a framework for addressing challenges that threaten humanity, while fulfilling human needs for health, safety, and welfare, meaning and delight. This essay describes the roots of ecological urbanism, with an emphasis on the Anglo-American tradition, and identifies fundamental concepts and principles. It provides historical context and a framework to guide future research and to advance the practice of ecological urbanism as a means to achieve cities that are more life-sustaining and more resilient, more functional, meaningful, and artful.