Regenerative Design, research by design.
Basic information
Project Title
Regenerative Design, research by design.
Full project title
Exploratory research on the meaning of regenerative design.
Category
Reconnecting with nature
Project Description
As a response to the complexity of today’s global challenges, such as climate breakdown and biodiversity loss, a more regenerative approach is increasingly being put forward. Regeneration implies enhancing an ecosystem, and leaving it better than it was. It’s an approach that puts life – human life, the planet, and everything it sustains – at the center of every action and decision. This project aims to explore the role of a designer in regenerating (eco)systems.
Geographical Scope
Local
Project Region
Zwijndrecht, Belgium
Urban or rural issues
It addresses urban-rural linkages
Physical or other transformations
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
EU Programme or fund
No
Description of the project
Summary
The project's primary aim was to explore the meaning of regenerative design and to showcase its potential to a broader audience. The primary target group included designers, while also intending to demonstrate the value of the applied methodology to a wider audience.
The research aimed to uncover the role designers could play in the regeneration of our (eco)systems, hoping to serve as both a pragmatic and inspirational example for others in the field. Achieving this involved a comprehensive exploration of the meaning of regeneration and its implications for design.
This was followed by the application of the established regenerative principles, to address the PFAS pollution in Zwijndrecht (Belgium), leading to the creation of specific design interventions crafted specifically for that site.
The research resulted in a deeper understanding of regeneration and its potential significance in design. That knowledge was translated into a thesis, presented as a visually engaging book. To provide a format that’s quicker to grasp, a more concise booklet was made. This booklet was purposefully crafted to serve as an introductory guide for designers, aiming to both educate them about the subject and spark inspiration for their involvement in regenerative design. Ultimately, these outcomes established a basis for further research in this topic.
The research aimed to uncover the role designers could play in the regeneration of our (eco)systems, hoping to serve as both a pragmatic and inspirational example for others in the field. Achieving this involved a comprehensive exploration of the meaning of regeneration and its implications for design.
This was followed by the application of the established regenerative principles, to address the PFAS pollution in Zwijndrecht (Belgium), leading to the creation of specific design interventions crafted specifically for that site.
The research resulted in a deeper understanding of regeneration and its potential significance in design. That knowledge was translated into a thesis, presented as a visually engaging book. To provide a format that’s quicker to grasp, a more concise booklet was made. This booklet was purposefully crafted to serve as an introductory guide for designers, aiming to both educate them about the subject and spark inspiration for their involvement in regenerative design. Ultimately, these outcomes established a basis for further research in this topic.
Key objectives for sustainability
The insights from the literature review and the expert interviews have led to the definition of eight regenerative design principles, as well as to the following definition of regenerative design; 'Regenerative design seeks to not merely do less harm when designing, but rather to put design to work as a positive force, creating resilient systems that integrate the needs of society with the integrity of nature. To progress towards regenerative design and systems for our planet, we need to apply a holistic and systemic way of thinking that puts life at the center of every action and decision.
During the practical exploration, the intention was to make this theory more tangible for designers by utilizing a specific case. The selected case, the PFAS pollution in Zwijndrecht, is approached using a systemic design methodology. The choice of this case, was inspired by the company Fytolutions. This company, consisting of a group of entrepreneurs are, in their own words, ‘taking responsibility for seeking and working out a sustainable and definitive solution in Zwijndrecht’. They are researching the ability of hemp to absorb PFAS from the soil, a technique called ‘phytoremediation’. From the uncontaminated parts of the plant, the company aims to create a material stream which could ensure compensation for the local farmers. This systemic approach facilitated a critical examination of the case, evaluating its alignment with the established regenerative principles. Can we consider Fytolutions a 'regenerative business'? A regenerative business should pursue a societal goal, delivering results that are environmentally restorative, socially just, and economically inclusive, thus creating value for a wide range of stakeholders in its ecosystem. A thorough examination was conducted to determine whether Fytolutions meets the criteria. The opportunities that arose from this research were identified, which served as a basis for developing regenerative interventions for Zwijndrecht.
During the practical exploration, the intention was to make this theory more tangible for designers by utilizing a specific case. The selected case, the PFAS pollution in Zwijndrecht, is approached using a systemic design methodology. The choice of this case, was inspired by the company Fytolutions. This company, consisting of a group of entrepreneurs are, in their own words, ‘taking responsibility for seeking and working out a sustainable and definitive solution in Zwijndrecht’. They are researching the ability of hemp to absorb PFAS from the soil, a technique called ‘phytoremediation’. From the uncontaminated parts of the plant, the company aims to create a material stream which could ensure compensation for the local farmers. This systemic approach facilitated a critical examination of the case, evaluating its alignment with the established regenerative principles. Can we consider Fytolutions a 'regenerative business'? A regenerative business should pursue a societal goal, delivering results that are environmentally restorative, socially just, and economically inclusive, thus creating value for a wide range of stakeholders in its ecosystem. A thorough examination was conducted to determine whether Fytolutions meets the criteria. The opportunities that arose from this research were identified, which served as a basis for developing regenerative interventions for Zwijndrecht.
Key objectives for aesthetics and quality
Designers can have a crucial role in shaping the future. A creative mindset might be the catalyst we need for the regeneration of our ecosystems. In this project, for example, the potential of a more regenerative future for Zwijndrecht was illustrated by creating some conceptual interventions for the region. Some of these are briefly explained below; in the complete report, they are also visualized. Remediation is only the first step of a restoration process. What follows when the soil has been remediated? An opportunity presents itself here to explore regenerative agriculture models on a regenerative farm; principles of rotational cropping, no tilling, etc. could be applied here. This regenerative farm could also be a place for learning, where children can be shown where their food comes from. Helping children in Zwijndrecht become experts in soil rather than PFAS, is the aim. To re-establish a cultural connection between local residents and the soil, focusing on younger generations would be the initial step. Workshops could be organized to learn about local biodiversity, and how to attract it. These could be organized in gardens or parks where the soil has been dug up in the context of 3M’s remediation efforts. The need for residents to come together, also arised. Vegetable gardening together, in raised garden beds for example, could be a way to keep in touch with the soil in a collective way. After 3M has remediated its surroundings, they could share a part of their land for events (e.g. food truck festival, markets) or simply for relaxation. This could also create more connection and common ground between corporate- and village culture in Zwijndrecht. The company could also compensate the farmers’ businesses beyond merely financial support. Consider organizing markets in the business park, where farmers can sell their produce to both 3M employees and residents. The 3M cafeteria could offer food from a 5 km radius around the site.
Key objectives for inclusion
When it comes to inclusion, the research highlights that regenerative design solutions should be specific to the ecosystems in which they are working. That ecosystem and your connection with it becomes an intrinsic part of the journey. If we develop a deep understanding of the people and the place around us, this will ultimately lead to regenerative design. By questioning what is right for this place in particular and how we can enhance the local community in several ways, designers can develop this understanding. Celebrating the uniqueness of these systems is essential to regenerative design.
Therefore, a thorough systemic research was conducted in which multiple stakeholders were involved, to develop an understanding of this (eco)system. As many types of actors were interviewed, to understand as many viewpoints on the PFAS pollution as possible. This goes from the victims of this pollution, the local community, to the polluter and many more. The design interventions were developed with the aim of creating a more regenerative future for Zwijndrecht, considering all parties involved.
Next to involving as many stakeholders as possible, inclusion also means considering more dimensions than just the ecological. The impact that design can bring about can be regenerative on a multitude of dimensions, beyond the ecological, including the social, economic, cultural, psychological and spiritual dimension. Some interventions were created that focused specifically on social and psychological regeneration.
Therefore, a thorough systemic research was conducted in which multiple stakeholders were involved, to develop an understanding of this (eco)system. As many types of actors were interviewed, to understand as many viewpoints on the PFAS pollution as possible. This goes from the victims of this pollution, the local community, to the polluter and many more. The design interventions were developed with the aim of creating a more regenerative future for Zwijndrecht, considering all parties involved.
Next to involving as many stakeholders as possible, inclusion also means considering more dimensions than just the ecological. The impact that design can bring about can be regenerative on a multitude of dimensions, beyond the ecological, including the social, economic, cultural, psychological and spiritual dimension. Some interventions were created that focused specifically on social and psychological regeneration.
How Citizens benefit
The project extensively involved various local stakeholders affected by the crisis, ranging from local farmers and residents to key figures such as the director of 3M, government employees at local and national levels, scientists specializing in phytoremediation techniques on site and many more. These stakeholder interviews played a crucial role in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the system in which the project operated.
Emphasizing the established regenerative principles, the project highlighted the importance of 'systems thinking' and ‘a deep understanding of the local place and culture’. Considering these principles was crucial in striving for a regenerative impact on both the human and natural systems affected by the PFAS pollution. The involvement of these stakeholders significantly contributed to a thorough understanding of the system dynamics and to identifying crucial leverage points for the design interventions.
Regenerative interventions can be implemented across various levels, encompassing the individual, community, and ecosystem or living systems. The interventions are directed towards shaping a positive future for Zwijndrecht, aligning with the essence of regenerative design:
"Regenerative design seeks to not merely do less harm when designing, but rather to put design to work as a positive force, creating resilient systems that integrate the needs of society with the integrity of nature. To progress towards regenerative design and systems for our planet, we need to apply a holistic and systemic way of thinking that puts life at the center of every action and decision."
Although direct citizen involvement in the design of the interventions was limited due to time constraints, the overall engagement enhanced the project's understanding and potential for systemic impact. Given more time, co-creation with (and feedback from) citizens would have been a pivotal agenda item.
Emphasizing the established regenerative principles, the project highlighted the importance of 'systems thinking' and ‘a deep understanding of the local place and culture’. Considering these principles was crucial in striving for a regenerative impact on both the human and natural systems affected by the PFAS pollution. The involvement of these stakeholders significantly contributed to a thorough understanding of the system dynamics and to identifying crucial leverage points for the design interventions.
Regenerative interventions can be implemented across various levels, encompassing the individual, community, and ecosystem or living systems. The interventions are directed towards shaping a positive future for Zwijndrecht, aligning with the essence of regenerative design:
"Regenerative design seeks to not merely do less harm when designing, but rather to put design to work as a positive force, creating resilient systems that integrate the needs of society with the integrity of nature. To progress towards regenerative design and systems for our planet, we need to apply a holistic and systemic way of thinking that puts life at the center of every action and decision."
Although direct citizen involvement in the design of the interventions was limited due to time constraints, the overall engagement enhanced the project's understanding and potential for systemic impact. Given more time, co-creation with (and feedback from) citizens would have been a pivotal agenda item.
Physical or other transformations
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
Innovative character
The concept of regeneration, which puts life in all its forms - human life, the planet, and everything that sustains it - at the core of every decision, is inherent to nature itself. It's not particularly groundbreaking in that sense. However, when the underlying idea of regeneration becomes the approach for how designers will shape the world, it can lead to innovative insights. Innovation doesn't always have to be 'new,' especially when dealing with questions about how we can live in symbiosis with nature. This poses a great challenge but simultaneously offers a unique opportunity for designers to explore ways to make a positive impact.
In addition, it became clear through the case that a systemic design methodology, or even in general a design thinking methodology, addresses relationships and opportunities of a system that other disciplines do not often consider. For example, Karl Vrancken, the Flemish commissioner of the PFAS case who worked on stakeholder management within this system for 1.5 years, was surprised when I asked him about the underlying relations and types of relationships present in the system. This made him pause for a moment, as he had not really thought about it before. This proves that the perspective of designers can shine new light on how to address such complex issues. As designers, we also can introduce such systems in a ‘soft’ way, but still be able to bring about change.
In addition, it became clear through the case that a systemic design methodology, or even in general a design thinking methodology, addresses relationships and opportunities of a system that other disciplines do not often consider. For example, Karl Vrancken, the Flemish commissioner of the PFAS case who worked on stakeholder management within this system for 1.5 years, was surprised when I asked him about the underlying relations and types of relationships present in the system. This made him pause for a moment, as he had not really thought about it before. This proves that the perspective of designers can shine new light on how to address such complex issues. As designers, we also can introduce such systems in a ‘soft’ way, but still be able to bring about change.
Disciplines/knowledge reflected
By fostering multidisciplinary collaborations, designers can broaden their perspectives and capacities, hereby enhancing the possibility that the designed interventions adequately respond to the place values and needs. This paves the way for collaborations with experts in ecology, such as biologists, ecologists, and landscape architects, as well as with people with social skills such as psychologists. Depending on the project, the nature of this collaboration will vary. To illustrate how different disciplines were reflected in the interventions for Zwijndrecht, I will elaborate on one of the design interventions, namely that of the 'research forest.'
This intervention entails a part of the contaminated land that would be completely converted into a research landscape, in which a variety of natural remediation techniques can be tested and studied. The phytoremediation technique with hemp is promising, but still requires a lot of research before it can be validated. Many other crops, such as willow or reed, also have potential to be suitable for such techniques. This research center should be multidisciplinary. Next to the biologist, that oversees the experiments on the techniques, a whole range of disciplines could be on board. Think of ecologists that understand the natural ecosystem, material scientist that understand how to transform these crops into materials, designers that can shape these materials, etc.
The need for research on how to represent nature as a stakeholder, also emerged. This kind of research could also be done in the research center. Finding an answer on how to give nature a voice, requires input from a lot of other disciplines, such as law. This research forest can contribute to transforming Zwijndrecht, as a municipality known for the pollution, to a place known for its knowledge. This aligns with the governments’ ambitions to launch a knowledge center on PFAS and similar substances.
This intervention entails a part of the contaminated land that would be completely converted into a research landscape, in which a variety of natural remediation techniques can be tested and studied. The phytoremediation technique with hemp is promising, but still requires a lot of research before it can be validated. Many other crops, such as willow or reed, also have potential to be suitable for such techniques. This research center should be multidisciplinary. Next to the biologist, that oversees the experiments on the techniques, a whole range of disciplines could be on board. Think of ecologists that understand the natural ecosystem, material scientist that understand how to transform these crops into materials, designers that can shape these materials, etc.
The need for research on how to represent nature as a stakeholder, also emerged. This kind of research could also be done in the research center. Finding an answer on how to give nature a voice, requires input from a lot of other disciplines, such as law. This research forest can contribute to transforming Zwijndrecht, as a municipality known for the pollution, to a place known for its knowledge. This aligns with the governments’ ambitions to launch a knowledge center on PFAS and similar substances.
Methodology used
The investigation of the research questions was initially pursued through a theoretical exploration. By conducting a comprehensive literature review and engaging in expert interviews, valuable insights related to the subject were gathered. These insights were translated into design principles that hold relevance for practitioners in the field of design, and a precise definition of regenerative design was established. A more practical exploration of the research questions followed, employing a research by design methodology to address them. The intention was to make the previously defined principles more tangible for designers by utilizing a specific case study.
I approached the research on this case using a systemic design methodology, employing techniques from the book by Peter Jones and Kristel van Ael, 'Design Journeys through Complex Systems.' The PFAS pollution system is complex and involves a large number of stakeholders. Using an actor map, both human and non-human actors within this system were identified. These actors were ranked based on various factors, including their power and knowledge within this specific system. This ranking was determined through interviews, conducted with various stakeholders.
The purpose of researching this case, on the one hand, was to be able to critically reflect on
‘Fytolutions’ and the overall approach to the PFAS pollution. On the other hand, the purpose was to transform the identified opportunities into potential interventions for Zwijndrecht. Two brainstorming sessions were conducted, to generate ideas, which served as the foundation for the regenerative design solutions. After the brainstorm sessions, the interventions were further developed and illustrated.
I approached the research on this case using a systemic design methodology, employing techniques from the book by Peter Jones and Kristel van Ael, 'Design Journeys through Complex Systems.' The PFAS pollution system is complex and involves a large number of stakeholders. Using an actor map, both human and non-human actors within this system were identified. These actors were ranked based on various factors, including their power and knowledge within this specific system. This ranking was determined through interviews, conducted with various stakeholders.
The purpose of researching this case, on the one hand, was to be able to critically reflect on
‘Fytolutions’ and the overall approach to the PFAS pollution. On the other hand, the purpose was to transform the identified opportunities into potential interventions for Zwijndrecht. Two brainstorming sessions were conducted, to generate ideas, which served as the foundation for the regenerative design solutions. After the brainstorm sessions, the interventions were further developed and illustrated.
How stakeholders are engaged
Local government members of the municipality of Zwijndrecht were questioned, but interviews were also conducted at the provincial and even Flemish level. A total of 14 interviews were conducted with a wide range of stakeholders (from scientists to politicians, local farmers, residents, government employees, the coordinator of the PFAS case, 3M Director Fluorochemical Stewardship, etc. …). They were asked about their stance regarding the PFAS pollution in Zwijndrecht and the personal impact it has caused. Additionally, inquiries were made regarding the relationships and power dynamics among the actors within the system. System maps were created to visually represent the factors and relationships within the system. The aim was to gain a better understanding of the dynamics within the system and to identify leverage points.
Global challenges
The case study focuses on the PFAS pollution, caused by 3M, in Zwijndrecht. Sadly, this is not the only contaminated PFAS site in Europe. According to an international investigation by 17 media outlets, including The Guardian and Le Monde, there are more than 17,000 contaminated PFAS sites in Europe. Of these, 2,100 are at levels considered dangerous to human health. PFAS is clearly a global problem, but the significance of the local context is emphasized in this study. The research aims to establish a profound understanding of the place and culture to be able to implement regenerative interventions at the local level. Celebrating the uniqueness of a system is essential to regenerative design. These interventions are created specifically for this context and would not be fitting elsewhere.
Popular wisdom holds that the fittest survive, the strongest, leanest, largest, perhaps meanest – whatever beats the competition. But in healthy, thriving natural systems it is actually the ‘fitting-est’ who thrive. Fitting-est implies an energetic and material engagement with place, and an interdependent relationship to it: acknowledging that we are part of nature, instead of viewing ourselves as unconnected to the culture and landscape around us.
Regenerative design solutions are therefore not likely to be globally applicable. The general principle behind the solutions may be, but the implementation should be adapted to local conditions. This is why distributed, regional value chains fit the regenerative model way more than the centralized supply chains we see today. Sourcing and producing materials close to their end markets keeps value within communities rather than exporting it elsewhere. This material engagement with place keeps the producers in touch with the regional resource levels, making them more responsive and resilient to supply changes – and more likely to maintain a healthy nutrient balance, rather than an over exploitative one.
Popular wisdom holds that the fittest survive, the strongest, leanest, largest, perhaps meanest – whatever beats the competition. But in healthy, thriving natural systems it is actually the ‘fitting-est’ who thrive. Fitting-est implies an energetic and material engagement with place, and an interdependent relationship to it: acknowledging that we are part of nature, instead of viewing ourselves as unconnected to the culture and landscape around us.
Regenerative design solutions are therefore not likely to be globally applicable. The general principle behind the solutions may be, but the implementation should be adapted to local conditions. This is why distributed, regional value chains fit the regenerative model way more than the centralized supply chains we see today. Sourcing and producing materials close to their end markets keeps value within communities rather than exporting it elsewhere. This material engagement with place keeps the producers in touch with the regional resource levels, making them more responsive and resilient to supply changes – and more likely to maintain a healthy nutrient balance, rather than an over exploitative one.
Learning transferred to other parties
It is mainly the approach used throughout the case study that could add value to the transformation of other systems. In addition, the conclusions drawn from this research can be of use in different contexts. The research made clear that the question should not be how design can regenerate our environment, but rather on how design can enable regeneration. Listed below are some ways in which this can be achieved that became evident through the study.
There is a strong need to commit to a new paradigm instead of to an incremental improvement of the old. The research suggests that designing experiences, services and places can contribute to people’s realization that they are interdependent on nature, and consequently affect their behavior towards it. If we don’t address intangibles like motivation and will, the tangible solutions that seem so obvious will continue to elude us.
Also vital to this systemic approach is cherishing interdependence. Imagining something ‘ought to be’ is a medium to bring multiple agents, actors, disciplines, and resources together towards supporting regenerative outcomes for the social and ecological context of a project. Active engagement of the stakeholders who will be affected by the design, including non-human stakeholders, is therefore essential to guarantee a regenerative outcome that will respond to their needs and nourish the relationships in the system. As mentioned before, embracing transdisciplinarity is crucial to enhance our ability to meet these needs.
Lastly, it was concluded that efforts to regenerate the land go hand-in-hand with efforts to regenerate communities. Regenerating degraded ecosystems requires partnerships and active engagement by local people, that can generate economy for the community. The design process can nurture these interconnected benefits to strengthen the social fabric and enhance the local community. This way, the interventions have the potential to activate individual and collective agency.
There is a strong need to commit to a new paradigm instead of to an incremental improvement of the old. The research suggests that designing experiences, services and places can contribute to people’s realization that they are interdependent on nature, and consequently affect their behavior towards it. If we don’t address intangibles like motivation and will, the tangible solutions that seem so obvious will continue to elude us.
Also vital to this systemic approach is cherishing interdependence. Imagining something ‘ought to be’ is a medium to bring multiple agents, actors, disciplines, and resources together towards supporting regenerative outcomes for the social and ecological context of a project. Active engagement of the stakeholders who will be affected by the design, including non-human stakeholders, is therefore essential to guarantee a regenerative outcome that will respond to their needs and nourish the relationships in the system. As mentioned before, embracing transdisciplinarity is crucial to enhance our ability to meet these needs.
Lastly, it was concluded that efforts to regenerate the land go hand-in-hand with efforts to regenerate communities. Regenerating degraded ecosystems requires partnerships and active engagement by local people, that can generate economy for the community. The design process can nurture these interconnected benefits to strengthen the social fabric and enhance the local community. This way, the interventions have the potential to activate individual and collective agency.
Keywords
Regeneration
Research by design
Ecosystems thinking
Systemic approach
Regenerative materials
