What does it mean to design while considering the rhythms and cycles of nature? What social relationships and connections with the natural environment can cities foster today and in the future? In the face of a triple environmental crisis driven by climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, along with zoonotic pandemics, increasing mental and emotional health issues, and digital hyperconnectivity, Fundación Cosmos proposes to explore learnings, experiences, and tools aimed at connecting people with their territories. Through nature-based urban planning, the intervention in urban wetlands presents an opportunity to enhance, learn from, and conserve natural and cultural heritage in pursuit of a sustainable and resilient future.
Over the years, human beings have settled in different environments according to the natural characteristics of the territories in search of prosperity. Access to water, soil quality, natural resources, and scenic beauty have undoubtedly influenced community decision-making. While it is widely acknowledged that humans rely on natural systems for essential resources such as water, food, and raw materials, merely being connected to nature also serves crucial functions and offers, moreover, significant benefits. While forests and oceans act as carbon sinks and regulate local climates, wetlands, and riparian vegetation help prevent and mitigate flood risks. In turn, plants act as filters for air pollutants, further contributing to countless medicinal compounds production.
