Shifting Perceptions: A Systematic Approach to Urban Environmental Stewardship

Abstract

We as a species face a fundamental disconnect with our surroundings that has created an existential threat to our continued survival on this planet. If we are to change we need to allow ourselves the opportunities to make deeper connections with our environment once again. The idea of nature is socially constructed. It is different from person to person, culture to culture and situation to situation. This means that our perception of nature can be altered and improved to help motivate and empower the everyday person to protect the sources of our good life. This thesis focuses on a systematic approach to urban environmental stewardship. Through the construction of an urban environmental learning center the project seeks to challenge the current relationships that we have within our urban context. The project will utilize its site, existing environmental learning centers and the city of Seattle as a resource to form a network of educational opportunities focusing on stormwater, pollution, agriculture, and plant and animal habitat.