The biophilic hypothesis was identified by an American Biologist at Harvard University called Edward O Wilson; who correctly identified back in 1983 that humans have a deep natural connection to nature. Biophilic literal translation is “love of life and natural systems”
Biophilic design is a process that looks to harness the restorative power of nature to create happier healthier and greener communities. As of 2007 over 50% of the world’s global population live in an urbanised environment. Increased urbanisation has resulted in the dilution of meaningful green spaces impacting to a critical level the biodiversity existence of nature in cities & the wellbeing balance of its human dwellers.
Research is clearly identifying the impacts of our social and planning negligence to preservation and inclusion of natural systems within our growing urban communities.
Inclusion of meaningful nature in urban and community planning is often been seen as a tokenistic garnish and not an intrinsic requirement. The power of nature holds a number of proven benefits, of which some are listed below.
+ Improved concentration and results in education and business
+ Increased social interaction and collaboration
+ Higher state of physical and emotional wellbeing and proven medicinal properties
+ Greater understanding and empathy and stewardship for our local ecosystems
+ A readymade play environment that supports physical and cognitive benefit, facilitates use of the imagination and creativity
+ Increase real estate value and economic revenue
+ Promotes walkability and liveability
+ Increased Biodiversity in urban areas
Below is a short video describing the need for biophilic intervention into urban planning and design
Title: Biophilic Design The Architecture of Life
Authors Tamarack Media