Presenter Information

Nathan Phillips, Boston University

Start Date

12-10-2020 3:45 PM

End Date

12-10-2020 5:00 PM

Access Type

Open Access

Abstract

Tree physiologists use a vernacular that translates amazingly well as a lens for understanding the structure, function, and sustainability of cities. Concepts of tree architecture such as efficiency, safety, vulnerability and their tradeoffs find parallels in our urban water, energy and food networks. In this talk I will compare and contrast the world of trees with that of cities and explore how urban planners and policymakers can learn from trees how to build more resilient and sustainable cities.

Biography

Nathan Phillips is a Professor in the Department of Earth and Environment at BU, studying ecology and land-climate interactions in wilderness and cities

COinS
 
Oct 12th, 3:45 PM Oct 12th, 5:00 PM

What Cities can learn from Trees: Lessons in Urban Ecomimicry

Tree physiologists use a vernacular that translates amazingly well as a lens for understanding the structure, function, and sustainability of cities. Concepts of tree architecture such as efficiency, safety, vulnerability and their tradeoffs find parallels in our urban water, energy and food networks. In this talk I will compare and contrast the world of trees with that of cities and explore how urban planners and policymakers can learn from trees how to build more resilient and sustainable cities.