Learning Objective
Students will be able to apply systems thinking and circular design principles to their work, recognizing and embracing the complexity of the interdependent environmental, economic, social, and technical systems their work is a part of. They understand the consequences of the design field on interrelated ecosystems, and identify interventions for positive change.
Biological Strategy
Mycorrhizal fungi, small threads of mycelium that make up a vast underground network, live in a mutualistic partnership with trees and other plants. Mycelium acts as a network between trees, plants, and other fungi, sending water, chemicals, and signals throughout the forest. If a larger tree has an oversupply of nutrients, mycelium shuttles the extra to other trees and plants that may have a deficiency. If a tree is being attacked by a pest, it can send out a warning through the mycelial network, allowing other trees to bolster their defenses. These networks help forests function by optimizing resource sharing to benefit the whole ecosystem.
If we’re making trash, we should at least figure out what to do with it at the end, or try to, or do our best to. And unfortunately, the systems in place that I can rely on to do that for me? They don’t do it right.”
- Professional Designer, Interview #3
We no longer are doing just chairs, logos, posters, dresses, and packaging. Instead, we are developing experiences, platforms, services, organizations, and communities, often on a global scale.”
- Manuel Lima in The New Designer, Page 34