The notion that human beings can design
incredible processes such as ecosystems has been described as the
height of hubris by some; ecosystems are too complex, the argument
goes, and our knowledge too incomplete. In reality, we design
ecosystems every time we start a bulldozer or tractor, every time we
change land use or reroute stream flow.
We just do not design explicitly, and
the consequences are apparent. Designing ecosystem services should be
approached with a deep sense of humility and respect for what we do
not know.
In order to ensure that this philosophy
is embodied in the practice of ecological design, we propose the
following three axioms of ecological engineering:
1. Everything is connected
2. Everything is changing
3. We are all in this together
The first two axioms are fundamental
principles of systems ecology described by H. T. Odum (1988) and are
the foundation of ecological design. They are critical for
understanding and conceptualizing solutions to the challenges of
developing sustainable design strategies.
The interconnectedness of all biotic
and abiotic processes throughout the biosphere is demonstrated by the
effects of urban land use on almost every aspect of ecosystem
function, from climate to hydrology to biodiversity. Everything is
changing, and the rate of change is increasing.
Changes in the biosphere are being
driven by changes in global climate, land use, and human population,
among other factors.
The third axiom, embodied by the
Cherokee cultural ideal gadugi, roughly translated as “we are all
in this together,” is a normative claim that connects ecosystem
theory with sustainability. This is the essence of the ecological
engineering ethics.
