Small Decisions in Suburban Open Spaces: Ecological Perspectives from a Hotspot of Global Biodiversity Concerning Knowledge Flows between Disciplinary Territories

摘要

What are some of the 'small decisions' in the life of new suburbs and how can small decisions engage with up-to-date knowledge to obtain the best ecological outcomes? Topography and soils, plant species and species selection, safety, and light, were taken as cases of small decisions in suburban development and ecological knowledge related to them is discussed. For each example, the sites of decision-making and knowledge were mapped in the context of academic and workplace 'know/edge tribes and territories'. Mapping revealed disconnections between where each small decision was made and where knowledge was held which, if addressed, could lead to better ecological outcomes. Ways of countering or moderating the tension between the disparity in the position of decision-making and the knowledge-sources are suggested for small decisions about landscapes.