Exercise #3

July 30, 2023 By: Xinmao Huang

What is important to remember about China is the massive spate of urbanization and industrial development that has contributed to the immense loss of biodiversity and the homogenization of flora and fauna species within major urban areas. Nonetheless, I would argue there is a strong biocultural relationship that exists between humans and nature that is reflected in urban Chinese architecture and park construction. This aligns with both Gifford Pinchot’s utilitarian and John Muir’s conservationist vision that forms a “balanced” strategy for preserving declining green spaces.

Article 1: Conservation

Hou, Wei, Liang Zhai, and Ulrich Waiz. “Identification of Spatial Conservation and Restoration Priorities for Ecological Networks Planning in a Highly Urbanized Region: A Case Study in Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei, China.” Ecological Engineering, 187, February 2023: 1-11.

There are parallels with the advent of industrialization and urbanization and the greater desire for natural green spaces in China and the United States. In Steinberg’s book, Down to Earth, the author notes how Pinchot emphasized conservation as a form of development. This allowed for the development of conservation as a form of exploitation and utilization. However, I would argue that China has blended elements of Pinchot’s utilitarianism and Muir’s preservation theories in its conservation strategies. For instance, China has embraced Pinchot’s vision with the use of green spaces meant for optimized use for industrialization and urbanization while including restricted/prohibited regions that prevent urban/industrial development. This article points to the emergence of China’s Major Function Oriented Zone in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region that comprises ecological networks of breaking points and stepping stones

Article 2: Parks

Bradsher, Keith. “China’s Concrete Jungles Make room for Green Space.” The New York Times, June 1, 2021. https://www.nytimes.com/2021/06/01/business/china-parks-green-space.html

The aggressive   spate of urbanization within China’s sprawling metropolises points to the dire need for green spaces. This marks a significant pivot from the initial utilitarian perspective espoused by Gifford Pinchot and a shift towards John Muir’s concept of conservation as a form of preservation. The adoption of green spaces in major cities like Suzhou and Shanghai are significant are a part of China’s urban park construction strategy to create urban green rings, green corridors, green wedges, and green passages. However, I would also argue that China is adopting a more harsh form of utilitarianism, as noted in the article that Chinese authorities have seized homes to make space for urban parks. It was interesting to note how China’s parks differ from Western parks, in that Chinese parks tend to adhere to a tradition of emulation of past imperial/temple gardens with paved walking paths, running trails, and paved plazas.