The Waste Relations studio investigated the spatial consequences of waste materials and landscapes - both toxic and non-toxic - and the inequities they create. Through research, mapping, readings, and case studies the students explored the cultural constructs of waste, questioned spatial and material consequences of these cultural constructs, and critiqued emerging frameworks for waste reuse. These initial investigations were essential to reframe waste as an opportunity and abundant renewable resource that can be designed with and into built environment systems for more regenerative and circular systems.

The final design exploration was in collaboration with Sustainable Seattle (S2) and Duwamish Valley Sustainability Association (DVSA) on their pilot project working with South Park community members to implement a decentralized, zero-waste anaerobic biodigester and biofuel system for the neighborhood through youth-engaged and community-centric strategic planning. Alongside DVSA and S2, the students envisioned and co-designed community-rooted infrastructures that connected food, waste, energy, and transportation systems to prevent displacement and reinforce the resilience of the South Park community.

In this section you will find a deeper explanation of each project with their methodology and final products. In addition, there is a section dedicated to the community workshop and the outcomes generated. We hope these materials are both informative and inspiring.

---

Acknowledgements

Design Studio Students: Jack Hyland, Jesse Sleamaker, Laura Swett, Rhys Coffee, Dominique De Gracia, Matt Olszewski, Constantine Chrisafis, Mingrui Jia, Yen-Chia Pan, Su Li, Yijun Zhang, Yanrong Zheng

Community Partners & Collaborators & Reviewers: DVSA Youth, Edwin Hernandez, Jorge Lara, Dr. Natalie Garcia, Ry Yahn, Alexandra Burgos-Thorsen, Robert Hanlon, Amelia Jensen, Shannon Lee, Julie Parrett, Gundula Proksch