Episode 13 - Pioneering Ecology Based Architecture with Ken Yeang
In this episode, Sustainable Futures sits down with architect and visionary Ken Yeang to discuss the the practice of ecological design and how it can and must be used to enhance global resilience and combat climate change. Ken has been a pioneer of ecological design and hyper-green architectural design practice, believing in the imperative to design with nature from the ground up. Join us for a conversation on the power of natural systems, the growth of ecological design, and hear about many of the stunning and verdant projects Ken has had a hand in over the course of his illustrious career.
Episode 12 - Better Buildings through Biophilic Design
In this episode, Sustainable Futures sits down with designer and consultant Bill Browning to discuss the science and practice of biophilic design and how it can influence and affect our interaction with the world around us. Human beings have a strong affinity for the natural world, which green infrastructure and nature based design practices can be a powerful and cost effective mechanism to enhance our constructed spaces and quality of life. Join us for a conversation on the powerful impacts natural systems can have on our brain chemistry and psychology and the implications that has for how we consider and design our spaces.
Episode 11 - Water and the Systems that Drive Ecology
In this episode, Sustainable Futures sits down with educator and researcher Dr. Olyssa Starry Ph.D. to discuss the part water plays in urban ecology and the physical chemistry of plants and how this can affect the achievement of sustainability goals. Water is crucial to living systems like green roofs and other forms of green infrastructure, and managing how much and when can have a number of implications on what benefits are enjoyed. Join us for a conversation on the science of water and plants and how we can establish hearty and thriving urban ecosystems through systems integration.
Episode 10 - An Interdisciplinary Approach to Water
In this episode, Sustainable Futures sits down with artist, designer, and thought leader Herbert Dreiseitl to discuss the critical role of water in natural ecosystems, and what lessons can be learned and applied to our urban environments. To cope with climate change, cities need to better use their natural infrastructure assets to manage and treat water before it becomes a problem to the community. Join us for a conversation on resilient, regenerative design, and how best cities can incorporate water into planning to ensure that it is protected and viewed as a resource rather than an obstacle.
Episode 9 - Biodiversity and the Role of Insects
In this episode, Sustainable Futures sits down with Assistant Professor Scott Macivor of the University of Toronto to discuss the critical role of insects in the natural world, how climate change affects insect communities and populations, and the ways in which green roofs and green infrastructure can support and enhance those communities in our urban environments. Join us for a conversation on biodiversity and its role in our society, how insects support and influence the natural environment, and how we can develop comprehensive ecosystems.