Module 1: Sustainability Flashcards
What is sustainability?
Capacity to maintain, support and endure
What are the 4 tenets of sustainability
Environmental sustainability
Site sustainability
Social sustainability
Cultural sustainability
What is environmental sustainability?
Conserve natural resources to support the health and wellbeing of our ecosystems
What is site sustainability?
Promotes land development and sustainable management practices
Generate less waste, use less energy, water and natural resources
What is social sustainability?
Creating sustainable, successful places that promote well-being of individuals and the community, by understanding what people need from the places they work, live, and play
What is cultural sustainability?
Protecting and sustaining cultural heritage to preserve the cultural experiences and traditions we enjoy today for future generations
What can we do to promote the greater health of our environment?
The ecosystem approach allows the integration and cooperation of biophysical factors
What are examples of fads in landscape design?
Overuse of plant materials (Boxwoods, hydrangeas, tree species like Norway maples)
Overly bold statements (colors, etc.)
Materials (steel)
What are some examples of trends in landscape design?
Environment
Container gardening
Edible and vegetable gardening
Why do you want to avoid monoculture planting?
Emerald Ash Borer, for example
What are the goals of sustainable landscapes?
Exist in a state of balance between the driving forces of nature (including wind, water, humans, plant life)
What are the different ecological benefits of utilising plant materials in landscapes?
Can restore water systems
Can modify and alleviate harsh environmental conditions
Can maintain and improve soil conditions
Can improve cultural and social needs
Can improve health and general wellness of humans
What are some sustainable green infrastructures?
Green roofs
Soil management and the importance of managing soil
Living walls
Stormwater management (ponds, basins, tanks, swales, rain gardens etc.)
Xeriscapes
Growing trees in urban conditions
What is naturalized design?
Organic and typically native
Responsible to environment and site
Varied plants that are suitable for four seasons
Attract and encourage local wildlife
Adapts to local biophysical conditions
Successful succession and compatibility without human intervention
What are the benefits of naturalized design?
Requires less effort (maintenance, water, fertilizer)
Increases benefits to wildlife and pollinators
Provides seasonal interest
Site sensitive
What is the biggest disadvantage of traditional design concepts?
Keeps biophysical components separate and forces them together
