The University of Georgia Sustainability Certificate requires students to fulfill an “economic” sphere, yet I was able to satisfy this requirement through a combination of courses taken as part of my Landscape Architecture major and business minor. As a result, I opted to enroll in “Advanced Ecology” and “Introduction to Financial Management.”
During my Advanced Ecology course, I collaborated with a team to revitalize a section of the Sandy Creek Nature Trail in Athens, GA. To begin our project, my team conducted extensive research, including site visits, soil testing, and plant inventory, which revealed a mix of native and invasive species. Our design solution incorporated bioretention treatment, a riparian buffer to manage stormwater runoff, and a grassed meadow garden, while also preserving the existing pumphouse as a focal point. We added several benches throughout the site to enhance the visitor experience. Overall, our design aimed to restore a sense of connectivity to the site and unlock its full potential.
In addition to my ecology course, I also took a financial management course, which challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and broaden my horizons. Through this course, I gained a comprehensive understanding of analytical tools used in personal and corporate finance, including risk and return, valuation theory, and international finance. This course highlighted the importance of financial literacy and taught me how to create more effective budgets for my Landscape Architecture projects, especially when dealing with clients who are large corporations or government agencies.
Taken together, these two courses deepened my understanding of the vital relationship between sustainability and economics. Rather than being at odds, these two fields can be harmoniously integrated to create innovative solutions that benefit both stakeholders and the planet.