Overview
This lecture imagines optimistic futures for cities by applying sustainable technologies and practices, inspired by the solarpunk movement, emphasizing synergy between humans, nature, and technology.
Solarpunk Vision and Principles
- Solarpunk is an art and social movement envisioning sustainable societies where people, nature, and technology coexist harmoniously.
- The movement focuses on using existing tools and technologies to address environmental and societal challenges.
Future Los Angeles
- Los Angeles shifts to free, solar-powered public transport like electric bikes, buses, and trains, funded through community skill exchanges.
- Water-efficient vertical farms and converted parking lots grow food with nutrient misting, maximizing water conservation.
- Portable, temperature-controlled farms in shipping containers deliver fresh produce to residents.
Future Lagos
- Lagos restores wetlands to counter coastal erosion and prevent flooding, using natural systems as sponges.
- Water-flow turbines generate electricity for city services and markets.
- Expanded mangrove cultivation acts as a carbon sink, supports biodiversity, and provides resources for dyes, pharmaceuticals, and pesticides.
- Sustainable fishing and waste-to-energy systems power ships and floating infrastructure.
Future São Paulo
- Buildings use repurposed auto industry materials, are solar-powered, and collect/reuse rainwater.
- A solar stadium also serves as a nursery for native plants.
- Citizen-scientists use mushrooms to break down toxic residues, attracting wildlife back to polluted areas.
Real-World Examples
- Indigenous First Nations in Vancouver are constructing net-zero, affordable homes with green spaces and bike paths.
- Urban farming is thriving atop skyscrapers and reused spaces in Singapore.
- Prague supports biodiversity through urban beekeeping in unconventional locations.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Solarpunk — an art/social movement envisioning sustainable, tech-integrated societies.
- Net-zero housing — homes designed to produce as much energy as they consume annually.
- Carbon sink — a natural or artificial reservoir that absorbs more carbon than it releases.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Research local initiatives applying solarpunk principles or sustainable infrastructure.
- Reflect on community skills to contribute towards sustainability projects.