The focus of this iteration aims to address the emergent intersection of the natural/ earth sciences and critical geography/urban studies in response to the anthropogenic impact of urbanization and its environmental footprint. The world has reached a critical point in understanding that cities can be the source of solutions to, rather than the cause of, the challenges that societies are facing today; a shift which has created entire sociologies and terminologies of knowledge, which do not have a clear parallel within the context of the Arab world. In such local contexts, the matrices of ecological reasoning have become a point of tension between the natural, and our construction of it. In practical terms, urban and environmental policies require a critical and accurate reflection/ translation of this emerging discourse within the local context of the Arab-speaking world.

This workshop is co-organized by CLUSTER and Public Works Studio, and is in support of AFAC - Arab Fund for Arts and Culture.