Natura Urbana and Urban Ecology with Matthew Gandy
Jun 28, 2023
auto_awesome
Matthew Gandy, author of Natura Urbana, discusses urban ecology, nature, and the complexity of urban spaces. They explore the concept of nature, modernity, and modernization, as well as alternative futures for urban nature. They also question the idea of 'rewilding' and discuss coexistence between humans and nature.
Cities are not separate from nature; they are interconnected and arise from the raw materials of the Earth.
Rethinking land use, architecture, and human culture is necessary to address zoonotic diseases and promote sustainable urban development.
Deep dives
Exploring the Book 'Natura Urbana': A Discussion on Urban Ecology
In this podcast episode, Matthew Gandy, a geography professor at the University of Cambridge, joins the host to discuss his book 'Natura Urbana: Ecological Constellations in Urban Space.' They delve into various aspects of urban ecology, including the concept of urban nature and its different definitions. They also explore the significance of marginal or spontaneous spaces of nature within cities and how these spaces challenge conventional notions of urban environments. The conversation touches upon the fascination with post-apocalyptic and ruined worlds, the rewilding movement, and the complexities of urbanization and modernity. Gandy emphasizes the importance of engaging with nature and ecological processes at a grassroots level and considering alternative ecological imaginaries to shape a more progressive and sustainable future.
The Blurring Boundaries of Nature and Cities
Gandy discusses how the separation between nature and cities is often misleading and difficult to sustain. He highlights that cities are part of nature as they arise from the raw materials of the Earth. Gandy challenges the notion that cities are separate from nature, and instead proposes a more nuanced understanding that recognizes the interdependence and coexistence of urban and ecological processes. He examines the role of human agency, historical context, and capitalist urbanization in shaping urban spaces, stressing the need to critically engage with these complexities and rethink the politics of nature.
Alternative Futures and Imaginaries for Ecological Progress
The podcast explores the idea of alternative ecological futures and the role of optimism in catalyzing positive change. Gandy expresses the need to move beyond pessimistic or overly optimistic perspectives and instead foster a more engaged and proactive approach to environmental issues. He emphasizes the importance of reimagining ways of living with nature in cities and building a more progressive politics of nature. Gandy also highlights the value of ecological citizenship and the active involvement of individuals through practices like citizen science, field-based teaching, and immersive experiences in nature.
Urban Ecology, Zoonotic Urbanization, and Global Health Threats
The conversation delves into the field of urban ecology, particularly focusing on zoonotic urbanization and its implications for global health. Gandy explains the concept of zoonotic diseases, which are transmitted from animals to humans, and highlights the threats posed by the destruction of biodiversity and the spread of emerging diseases. He stresses the significance of rethinking land use policies, architecture, food production, and the relationship between human culture and ecological systems. Gandy concludes by advocating for a more thoughtful and sustainable approach to urban development that considers both human and non-human entities.
I'm joined by Matthew Gandy to discuss his text Natura Urbana: Ecological Constellations in Urban Space, alongside discussions on urban ecology and nature.
Book link: https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262046282/natura-urbana/
