Call for Papers: Climate Change and Place Climate change is already transforming the physical, ecological and social configuration of places across the world, and the meaning and experience of place is also certain to change significantly. What defines the character of places, and how can their design respond to the shifting climate?
In a special theme section of its issue to be published in August 2008, the journal Places invites scientists, essayists and designers to engage in a discussion of the impacts of climate change on the diverse dimensions of place and the role of design in minimizing its impact on human and ecological wellbeing. We are interested in explorations and reflections as well as examples of practices, real design schemes, and places that have responded to climate change. The themes for the special section range from the impact of climate change on places that support biodiversity and human wellbeing to how climate change and resulting biophysical changes alter our perception and meaning of place. In our role as a forum of design for the public realm, we ask: What are the implications of climate change and its impacts on the experience of place? How can planning and design best respond to climate variability and help us adapt to the changes to come? We welcome a variety of contributions, including: Reflections and explorations on how climate change may affect the multiple dimensions of particular places (max. 2000 words). Research essays that respond to existing and anticipated effects of climate change on the biophysical and social dimensions of place (max. 3000 words). Dispatches or project reports that describe significant events or examples of design that address climate change at a variety of scales (max. 1000 words). Contributions should include compelling, high-quality graphics. In addition , photo or graphic essays of places shifting as a result of climate impacts may also be considered. Deadline for submission of two-page proposals: November 1, 2007. Deadline for completed manuscripts, following initial selection by editors: January 15, 2008. Deadline for final revised manuscripts, following peer review and revision: May 1, 2008 Expected publication date: August 1, 2008 Questions should be directed to Marina Alberti [EMAIL PROTECTED] and Nancy Rottle [EMAIL PROTECTED], invited co-editors for this theme section, which is being produced in association with Daniel Friedman, the Dean of the University of Washingtons College of Architecture and Urban Planning, and a member of the Places Editorial Advisory Board.