Revitalizing our school: Implementing biophilic design for sustainable and engaging outdoor spaces

Douglas College's outdoor space revitalization project leverages biophilic design to address ecological and educational shortcomings—high plant mortality, invasive species, and underused green spaces. This effort supports the college's sustainability initiatives and aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, promising to foster student well-being and environmental awareness.
The central inquiry of this research is: How can biophilic principles be applied to improve the college's outdoor environment for both the ecosystem and student engagement? The research will utilize a mixed-method approach, comprising a literature review, surveys, and environmental analyses, orchestrated by a collaborative team from the Environmental Science and Design departments. With a project timeline set for the academic year, responsibilities will range from species research to landscape design, ensuring a pragmatic and educational experience for the team. The anticipated outcome includes robust design prototypes for campus outdoor areas and a strategy for ongoing stewardship and engagement with local environmental entities. This project's societal relevance is broad, providing cultural, economic, and ecological benefits. It aims to become a model for other educational institutions, potentially influencing green space policy and enhancing ecological literacy. The results will be showcased at the Student Research Days and integrated into the college curriculum to ensure the project's longevity and real-world application. Poster Proposal submission was sponsored by Dr. Siobhan Ashe, (Humanities and Social Sciences Department) for course SOCI 2270 and was presented at the New Westminster campus on April 11, 2024, for Student Research Days 2024.