Ecological Designed Experiment Method Based on Pragmatism: A Case Study of Haizhu Wetland Restoration Project in Guangzhou, China

Abstract

Exploring the effect ecological design methods is a critical issue for sustainable development, yet a gap still exists between the research and practices of ecological landscape design. This study employed pragmatic designed experiments as its core method, integrating methodologies from empiricism, positivism, and romanticism to propose a semi-empirical ecological design framework that emphasizes learning by doing and research through practice. The framework encompasses three steps: prototyping, designed experiments, and monitoring and adjustment. The study further took the restoration project of Haizhu Wetland in Guangzhou as an example by proposing five designed experiments based on the analysis of form prototypes suitable for the site: the mound-based orchard wetland system, enhanced paddy field system, bird island, high-tide habitat, and a low-maintenance resilient water system. Corresponding design hypotheses and monitoring and adjustment evaluation indicators were also offered. The results showcase the feasibility of integrating ecological research with practical application to steer ecological design optimization and enhance the resilience of anthropogenic ecosystems. Although the wetland renovation project has initially shown ecological benefits and social welfare, the effectiveness of this design framework still requires further tracking and validation.

● Constructs a learning-by-doing and semi-empirical ecological design framework based on pragmatism to facilitate effective learning through practices

● The ecological design framework includes three main steps of prototyping, designed experiment, and monitoring and adjustment

● Enhances the analytical capabilities regarding ecological knowledge and prototypes and establishes routines of monitoring and assessing the effectiveness of ecological design, thus increasing the flexibility of design process

Graphical abstract

Keywords

Novel Ecosystem / Urban Wetlands / Pragmatism / Design Prototype / Designed Experiment / Monitoring and Adjustment

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Acknowledgements

Optimization Study on the Layout of Urban Forest Spaces in Guangzhou's Old Urban Areas, General Project of the Basic Research Program Under the Science and Technology Planning Project of Guangzhou Province (No. 2023A04J1592)

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