Visit Nature

Abstract

Environmental degradation, limitations of resources, biodiversity loss, and disruption of ecosystems are a few of the issues humanity has brought upon the world. Academic research shows that when people have less interaction with nature, they are less likely to recognize environmental degradation as their problem. It is time for a change and it starts with human actions and for humans to admit the problem and their responsibility. This thesis investigates the roots of these problems which are based on the lost connection between humans and nature. From a critical perspective, the thesis addresses our problematic human-centric worldview that positions humans as superior to nature. The thesis then uses a more ecocentric worldview to deal with environmental issues by raising awareness of human symbiosis with nature. The thesis translates the knowledge and need of reconnecting to nature tourism and regenerative ways to coexist. The study consists of developing an already existing tourism attraction with an ecocentric mindset and a concept that strives towards ‘nature as the protagonist’. The aim is to find a balance between converting the site into a well-used tourist attraction and limiting the exploitation and distribution of nature and its systems. The project will use research for and through design that is integrated and explored in a case study for creating measures that respond to the thesis aim and the concept. The chosen site for the case study is a small mountain in Värmland called Tossebergsklätten. The result of the thesis is a proposed development plan for Tossebergsklätten and a design proposal based on the developed strategies that strive towards ‘Nature as the protagonist’. Lastly, the thesis discusses the opportunities to adapt the found investigations and development measures to a more general framework that can help to activate and support less utilized land areas to balance and relieve over-consumed nature in exploited areas.