Symbiotic Systems Thinking: Learning from Indigenous Knowledge for Planetary Design Futures

Description

This invited presentation, delivered for the Living Architecture Unit at the School of Design, University of Western Australia, explored how Indigenous knowledge systems can inform systems thinking and design approaches for planetary design futures. Framed through the concept of Symbiotic Systems Thinking, the talk examined how complex socio-ecological challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and human–nature conflicts require holistic, interconnected, and ethically grounded design responses.

Drawing on Indigenous ways of knowing, land and resource management practices, and case studies from design research and education, the presentation highlighted how Indigenous knowledge offers long-term perspectives on interdependence, resilience, and coexistence. The talk further discussed how integrating Indigenous and Western knowledge systems within systems-oriented design methodologies can enrich architectural and design practice, support sustainability transitions, and foster more inclusive approaches to planetary health and living systems.

Period	25 Aug 2025
Event title	BBMLAB International Guest Series Talks 2025: Living Architecture Unit (LIVA), UWA School of Design.
Event type	Other
Location	Online, Australia, Western AustraliaShow on map
Degree of Recognition	International