"Koalas and Stupid Planning," a Zube Lecture Presented by Adrienne Keane

Please join the UMass Department of Landscape Architecture and Regional Planning for "Koalas and Stupid Planning," a Zube Lecture presented by Adrienne Keane on Thursday, September 12th at 4pm in the Design Building Lecture Hall (DB 170).

Environmental sustainability remains elusive and there is an imbalance between urban growth, biodiversity and the systems that support all life. This is an ongoing problem for cities and regions, particularly as we face uncertain climate futures. This lecture explores strategic planning’s contribution to the problem. Using a case study in south-west Sydney, Australia, and noting that the lands were identified for development in the 1970's, 1700 residential lots were approved on and near significant ecological values including the endangered Koala and other threatened species. While the approval has been widely criticized for its environmental failure, criticism itself is not enough to address this common outcome. Unfortunately, this case seems to pit housing against environmental sustainability. It suggests that planning enabled "yes" to development and "no" to sustainability. As climate action and the restoration of biodiversity requires immediate address, how can strategic planning and decision-making about development respond differently?

Adrienne Keane is a lecturer, researcher and practicing urban planner. Her primary research interest is in  statutory land use planning particularly the consequences of policies in nature conservation. Education of professional planners is also an area of research interest. Adrienne is a graduate of the University of Sydney School of Architecture, Design and Planning having completed a Master in Urban and Regional Planning (Honours) and a PhD. She also has a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Environmental Health. 

Adrienne is a member of the Sydney Environment Institute, a board member of the International Urban Planning & Environment Association and member of the Planning Institute of Australia. Adrienne has worked in universities, local government and community organizations.