THE CHALLENGE: Convert unused rail tracks into trails that connect neighborhoods, enable alternative transportation, and provide recreational space.

Part of a nationwide Rails-to-Trails movement, the Atlanta BeltLine is creating a network of park and multi-use trails that connects and revitalizes neighborhoods, promotes sustainable mobility, and creates economic growth.

THE CHALLENGE: Increase New York City’s resilience to flooding by restoring the oyster reef system in the city’s harbor.

The Billion Oyster Project is increasing New York City’s resilience to extreme weather by restoring oyster reefs that protect the city’s harbor from storm damage by softening the blow of large waves, reducing flooding, preventing erosion, and restoring biodiversity.

THE CHALLENGE: Create a sustainable alternative to concrete.

Using biomimicry as a design strategy, bioMason developed a way to grow building materials based on the coral formation process. Their eco-friendly product is a concrete replacement and can be used in homes or commerical buildings.

THE CHALLENGE: Create a circular economy that reduces, recycles, and reuses ocean plastic.

To reduce ocean plastic pollution, Bureo® collects, cleans, and recycles used fishing nets, turning them into NetPlus®, a material then used to create products like Patagonia's hat brims, winter jackets, and Baggies shorts; skateboards; and Ocean Jenga.

THE CHALLENGE: Design a burial method that restores and replenishes the earth.

Capsula Mundi envisions a different approach to the way we think about death and the afterlife, challenging traditional burial methods which harm ecosystems.

THE CHALLENGE: Reduce food waste and provide food for those in need.

The Atlanta-based organization Concrete Jungle is helping to feed families by organizing urban foraging efforts to gather wild, edible plants, fruits, and nuts from public lands.

THE CHALLENGE: Grow food in a way that protects and restores the land while also preserving ancestral knowledge.

Soul Fire Farm, an Afro-Indigenous community farm, rejuvenates 80 acres of mountainside land and produces fruits, plant medicine, pasture-raised livestock, honey, mushrooms, and vegetables, using locally sourced and natural materials for structures.

THE CHALLENGE: Create a sustainable community green space on a site that floods frequently.

Historic Fourth Ward Park in Atlanta is a 17-acre model of sustainable urban planning, offers stormwater management and a recreational greenspace.

THE CHALLENGE: Design a building that positively impacts the environment and the people who use it.

This “Living Building” in Atlanta is designed to have net-positive water and energy use, optimize the well-being of its users, and support a just and equitable world.

THE CHALLENGE: Reduce building material waste and promote reuse of goods and products.

Lifecycle Building Center in Atlanta deconstructs, reuses, and sells building materials to the community at a lower cost.

THE CHALLENGE: Create a video game that immerses players into the culture of Native Alaskans and preserves their heritage.

This puzzle platformer game weaves together mythology, traditional art, and insight from Indigenous elders while exploring wildlife coexistence, respect for nature, community sharing, and spiritual connection with the land.

THE CHALLENGE: Enable alternative transportation methods between towns while also creating recreational space.

This 40-mile paved trail connects seven communities in Northwest Arkansas. It is used for recreation, commuting, and cycling tourism.

THE CHALLENGE: Design homes and a sustainable urban community for chronically unhoused individuals.

The Cottages at Hickory Crossing is a micro-neighborhood in Dallas that provides permanent housing and support services for 50 chronically unhoused citizens in Dallas.

THE CHALLENGE: Create a playground that engages kids with nature and protects a natural ecosystem.

Denver’s First Creek Park Natural Playground provides children with space for play in nature. it is also designed to protect the native ecosystem, providing habitats for various bird and plant species.

THE CHALLENGE: Design a life that positively impacts the health of the planet.

As integral parts of nature, humans have the capacity to positively impact the planet. By taking small, simple steps, we can design lives that benefit the Earth, foster a deeper connection with the natural world, and create a more sustainable future for all.