Pollino
Climate change poses significant threats to pollinators that are vital for maintaining healthy ecosystems and supporting biodiversity. As pollinating species face the challenges of adapting to shifting climates or migrating to more hospitable environments, urban areas have the potential to serve as critical sanctuaries. Pollino prompts us to reimagine urban infrastructures, transforming ordinary signs into essential habitats that connect and extend pollinator landscapes.
This project harnesses interdisciplinary collaboration and stakeholder engagement to meet the needs of both human and non-human urban dwellers. Through ongoing monitoring, the effectiveness of integrating pollinator habitats into urban settings is evaluated. Beyond enhancing urban biodiversity, Pollino contributes valuable insights to the field of design research. Engaging in data-driven analysis and proactive future planning, Pollino seeks to inspire continuous dialogue and innovation, addressing environmental challenges through thoughtful design.
Research phases
Design MA Thesis
Sep 2022 – Jun 2023
This project initiated as a Design MA thesis project by Kitti Butter, introducing an innovative signage system that redefines the role of wayfinding signs in urban environments, from the perspective of coexistence with non-human inhabitants. Designed to integrate nesting sites, plant holders, and water sources, the system aims to harmonize functionality for both human users and pollinators.
Research & Interviews
Sep 2022 – Feb 2024
Thorough background research, including a literature review and analysis of existing pollinator-friendly initiatives, was conducted. Key stakeholders, such as municipality decision-makers, urban planners, and ecologists were interviewed to gather insights for project development.
Methodology & Piloting
Jan 2024 – Mar 2024
Collaborating closely with ecologists, a monitoring system was developed to evaluate the effectiveness of Pollino objects and map how different urban impacts affect pollinators’ nesting habits. Pilot objects with artificial nesting sites tailored to various pollinator species' needs were designed.
Prototyping
Feb 2024 – Mar 2024
Twelve pilot objects were manufactured by hand at the Modeling Workshop at MOME TechPark. Through an iterative process, different materials and manufacturing options were tested to optimize the objects, ensuring protection against environmental elements.
Implementation
Mar 2024
Pollino objects were strategically deployed across twelve locations within Budapest's 12th district, integrating into urban landscapes as essential habitats for pollinators.
Monitoring
Apr 2024 – Oct 2024
A comprehensive monitoring process was initiated to track various aspects of Pollino objects' performance. Data collection included assessments of surrounding vegetation, utilization by pollinators, species observations, and feedback from human residents, evaluating the project's ecological and social impact.
Data Analysis
Jul 2024 – Dec 2024
Collected data will undergo analysis to gain insights into Pollino’s effectiveness and implications. Findings will inform future strategies, guiding the evolution and expansion of Pollino initiatives to enhance urban biodiversity and foster sustainable ecosystems.
Design MA Thesis
Research & Interviews
Methodology & Piloting
Prototyping
Implementation
Monitoring
Data Analysis
