Design for a sustainable landscape

Abstract

This dissertation argues that a sustainable ethic should become a fundamental principle for landscape architecture. Evidence of environmental degradation as a result of unsustainable land design and management is mounting. As a profession that promotes itself as the best people to design for the landscape, we must err on the side of caution in any decisions that could harm this landscape.

Good sustainable design will fulfil both the landscape architects roles as steward of the earth and environmental artist. Sustainability is not itself a design style, it is an underlying ethic, therefore there is no conflict with any design style. Discussion of design issues raised by adopting a sustainable ethic are discussed.

Case studies and examples of sustainable design on urban publicly owned land are presented. Methods found by designers and managers to be useful are described. Designing for a sustainable landscape is shown to be a viable and practical proposition.