Futures

Exploring Urban Ecosystems: A Summary of ‘Multispecies Cities’ Anthology, (from page 20221204.)

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Themes

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Summary

“Multispecies Cities” is a science fiction anthology released on April 13, 2021, exploring the interconnectedness of humans, animals, and the environment within urban ecosystems. With contributions from twenty-four authors, the anthology presents stories that challenge readers to consider multispecies justice and sustainability in urban life. The narratives feature diverse characters and settings, primarily focusing on the Asia-Pacific region, and address significant issues like justice, inclusion, and ecological balance. The stories range from quirky to serious, offering optimistic visions of future urban spaces where humans coexist harmoniously with nature. As a solarpunk collection, it emphasizes hope and innovative solutions to contemporary environmental challenges.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Multispecies Justice in Urban Settings Exploration of urban ecosystems shared by humans and non-humans. Shifting urban development focus from human-centric to multispecies-inclusive frameworks. Cities designed with integrated ecosystems will support diverse species and sustainable practices. Growing awareness of ecological interdependence and the need for environmental justice. 4
Rise of Solarpunk Genre Emergence of solarpunk as a genre focusing on ecological futures and sustainability. Transitioning from dystopian narratives to hopeful, sustainable futures in literature. Literature and media will increasingly reflect sustainable practices and diverse ecological perspectives. Crisis of climate change driving demand for hopeful, solution-oriented storytelling. 5
Cultural and Linguistic Diversity in Speculative Fiction Highlighting diverse voices in speculative fiction from Asia and the Pacific. Increasing representation of global perspectives in speculative narratives. Speculative fiction will be enriched with varied cultural narratives and ecological insights. Demand for inclusivity and representation in literature reflecting global experiences. 4
Integration of Non-Human Characters Stories featuring non-human characters exploring their relationships with humans. Evolving narrative techniques to incorporate non-human perspectives in storytelling. Narratives will feature complex relationships and roles for non-human entities in societies. Recognition of the importance of non-human entities in ecological and social systems. 3
Optimistic Visions of the Future Stories depicting positive futures despite current environmental challenges. Shift in narrative tone from pessimism to optimism regarding ecological futures. Cultural narratives will focus on solutions and hope rather than despair about the environment. Collective desire for hope and actionable solutions to global crises. 4

Concerns

name description relevancy
Multispecies Justice Addressing the needs and rights of non-human species in urban ecosystems is becoming increasingly relevant in future city planning. 4
Eco-Business Integration The blending of ecological awareness with business practices may lead to more sustainable urban environments but requires careful management to avoid exploitation. 3
Climate Disaster Response Stories point to urgent calls for innovative solutions to combat climate change and its impacts on urban living and ecosystems. 5
Cultural Inclusion in Urban Ecosystems The integration of diverse cultural perspectives in urban planning can lead to more inclusive and resilient multispecies cities. 4
Human-Nature Relationships Exploring and redefining our relationship with nature is crucial for future urban development and sustainability. 5
Species Extinction Awareness Increasing awareness and narrative around species extinction as a pressing concern that needs collaborative actions across communities. 5
Futurist Narratives The necessity of re-evaluating traditional narratives of progress and heroism in storytelling to address complex environmental challenges. 3

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Multispecies Justice Exploring urban ecosystems that prioritize the needs and rights of non-human species alongside humans. 5
Solarpunk Narratives Stories that envision sustainable futures through integrated relationships between humans and nature. 5
Inter-species Relationships Fostering connections and understanding between humans and various non-human entities in urban settings. 4
Diverse Cultural Perspectives Incorporating a wide range of cultural narratives to address environmental issues and urban living. 4
Optimistic Futurism Proposing hopeful and positive visions of future urban environments amidst ecological challenges. 5
Questioning Progress Narratives Challenging traditional notions of progress and individualism in storytelling, focusing instead on collective and relational narratives. 4

Technologies

name description relevancy
Multispecies Cities Urban ecosystems that integrate humans, animals, and plants, promoting justice and sustainability in city planning. 5
Solarpunk A movement and genre emphasizing sustainability, eco-friendly technologies, and harmonious living with nature in urban settings. 5
Genetic enhancement The use of genetic engineering to improve human capabilities or characteristics, discussed in speculative contexts. 4
Eco-business initiatives Innovative business models focused on ecological sustainability and environmental justice. 4
Inter-species communication Exploration of communication and relationships between humans and non-human species, fostering empathy and understanding. 4
Urban sustainability practices Strategies and technologies aimed at creating sustainable urban environments in response to climate challenges. 5

Issues

name description relevancy
Multispecies Justice in Urban Ecosystems Exploration of equitable relationships among humans, animals, and plants in city environments. 5
Solarpunk Narratives Stories promoting sustainable living and alternative futures in the context of climate change. 4
Interconnectedness of Species Understanding and emphasizing the relationships between humans and non-human life forms in urban settings. 4
Cultural Perspectives on Nature Diverse cultural narratives that influence how communities interact with their environment. 3
Climate Change Solutions through Fiction Using speculative fiction to envision and propose solutions for climate-related challenges. 4
Urban Futures and Sustainability Imagining future cities that integrate ecological principles and multispecies cohabitation. 5