Representations of Nonhuman Nature by Environmental Activists: Fostering Less Anthropocentric Planning in the More-than-human City

Abstract

This research investigated the role of environmental activists in controversial development proposals, and whether their other-than-scientific representations of species and natures can produce less-anthropocentric, more ecologically considered planning outcomes. The research illustrates the more-than-human relations within planning practice and the agency of nonhumans, in particular charismatic ‘flagship’ species. The research found increased representation of nonhumans using local knowledge can reduce the impact of human chauvinism and develop more ecologically considered more-than-human cities.