Since the inception of the Earth Steward Initiative (ESI) at 2014 ESA conference in Sacramento the objective of this project has sought to bring ecologists, landscape designers, and stakeholders together to shape the future of creating more livable and sustainable cities. The goal is to find common ground among collaborators and for ecologist to have exposure to other disciplines’ pedagogy and processes. The value of the ESI is to redefine ecologist’s roles in incorporating ecological design and experimentation into urban planning and development. This takes ecologists from a passive to active role in the scientific process, while thoughtfully balancing scientific ideals with the needs of stakeholders. The ESI project immerses ecologists into a multifaceted approach to research and design. It is through this process of collaboration that ecologists can truly appreciate the need for a multidisciplinary approach to ecology that accommodates the goals and constraints of real world projects. ESI is helping to shape the ideals of the next generation of ecologist in research and social engagement, while still maintaining the traditional role and identity of the ecologist. As we move forward to the future of ESI, it is useful to look back to the past 2 years to see how we can bridge the gap between the roles of ecologists, public planners, and the people by sharing lesson learned and how we get closer to achieving the goals set forth by the ESA’s Earth Stewardship Initiative.
Results/Conclusions
After 2 years of being involved in the ESI process; first as a fellow and then as an alumni, I have learned some valuable lessons. The first and most important is that we cannot draw a line in the sand between art, science, planning, and public perception. The need to foster interdisciplinary approaches that address the opportunities and potential for resilient urban ecosystems while also addressing the concerns for all involved in the process is paramount. Through these collaborations we find answers in embracing unorthodox methods. My experience with the ESI has taught me that there is the need for naiveté. While this may seem counterintuitive, it opens you up to the process and allows you to explore the ideas and concepts put forth with a fresh perspective. Moving forward, as ecologists we can use our knowledge of ecological theory to inform and be part of these active planning processes and through ESI we can have the tools to effectively implement them.