Realizing multispecies justice through a capability approach to promote nature-based solutions

Abstract

The design and implementation of nature-based solutions (NBS) in cities are often limited by an anthropocentric approach that prioritizes utilitarian goals instead of the diverse needs and abilities of multiple species that would support ecological flourishing. This paper starts from the premise that multispecies justice (MSJ) thinking provides a needed biocentric approach to NBS, and explores how a Capability Approach (CA) can be a bridge to integrate MSJ into urban NBS. The premise was tested through an embodied methodology used to design and deliver multi-city workshops in urban novel ecologies; settings often described as abandoned and hosting novel ecosystems. This research improved the understanding of participant's awareness and knowledge of more-than-human agencies in shaping space and time, and in identifying social and environmental vulnerabilities and opportunities that can foster or hinder multispecies flourishing. We conclude by exploring how the CA can bridge NBS and MSJ and argue for the potential of marginal, less-valued novel ecologies as important elements of socially and biodiversity-rich urban futures.

Keywords: Environmental social sciences; Environmental studies; Geography.

Fig. 1. Conceptual diagram of the capability approach: justice as agent flourishing via functionings.

This diagram illustrates a conceptual representation of the Capability Approach through agency—ability to influence, shape, relate, be, and do—as central to the processes and outcomes of justice. It is via functioning that agencies can be enacted (or not) within the constraints of the environmental conditions, allowing for organisms to flourish.

Fig. 2. Conceptual diagram relating the capability approach to a MSJ research approach.

This diagram illustrates the approach to operationalize MSJ through the biocentric understanding of the Capability Approach. Embodiment, relationality, and empathy—essential practices of MSJ—are methodologically explored through transect walks, storytelling, and role-playing.

Fig. 3. Photograph depicting one of the workshops conducted in Dublin, Ireland.

This site is adjacent to the National College of Art and Design, Dublin 8, Ireland. It is called “The Field” and has been transformed from an abandoned parking lot to a landscape with a novel assemblage of species and ecological functions. The photograph contextualizes the types of novel ecologies the research focuses on. Author: M. O'Donnell

Fig. 4. Workshop design: activities, locations, and participants.

This figure describes: a the three activities carried out in the workshops, “following through walking” or transect walks; b the location and type of novel ecosystem in each location; and c participant composition, number of participants (pn) per workshop, and the workshop identifier (W01-W08).