We recently returned from the International Conference on Landscape Architecture Education in Beijing where LAF was invited to present on both landscape performance and the New Landscape Declaration. Both initiatives were enthusiastically embraced, and we came away inspired, invigorated, and excited about landscape architecture in China and the future.
As we continue to process our cultural and educational experience, a key takeaway is that landscape architecture is definitely on the rise in China. In 2011, China elevated landscape architecture from a Level 3 to a Level 1 profession of highest importance to society, subsequently spawning over 200 education programs across the country. We learned that "Green is Gold" and an "Ecological Civilization" are part of a national vision with a long view and focus on landscape performance and shared interests in the aims of the New Landscape Declaration.
We are more inspired than ever to see if there are strategies we can employ here in the U.S. to increase demand for landscape architecture education and advance a systems-thinking versus transactional approach to leadership within our democratic governance.
As we reflect on the LAF Summit on Landscape Architecture and the Future one year ago, we thank you for your commitment, appreciate how our collective vision is shared around the world, and wish you the benefits of travel over the summer!
Executive Director
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