Landscape Resilience and the Autopoiesis of the Landscape: Differences and Affinities

Abstract The interplay between human communities and natural landscapes, as defined by the Council of Europe Landscape Convention, underpins discussions on landscape resilience and heritage conservation. This paper delves into the concept of autopoiesis within landscape transformation, emphasizing the role of creativity and evolution in natural processes. Autopoiesis, understood as nature's inherent creativity, involves a continual adjustment of ecological and genetic mechanisms, shaping landscapes through serendipitous processes and Architectural Exaptation. Central to this discussion is the dual interaction between communities and landscapes, where the landscape both reflects and shapes community identity, aspirations, and quality of life. Through governance processes outlined by the European Landscape Convention, communities influence landscape management and transformation, balancing regulatory actions with spontaneous care processes. The integration of creativity within landscape modification by communities necessitates an understanding of institutional frameworks and bottom-up approaches, highlighting the multifaceted nature of landscape stewardship. Moreover, community-led initiatives demonstrate the potential for landscape resilience, emphasizing collective action, narrative building, and empowerment. Landscape planning, particularly within regional frameworks, underscores the importance of community participation in shaping territorial actions and fostering landscape stewardship. The paper concludes by discussing the concept of collective autopoiesis, emphasizing the intricate relationship between communities and landscapes in driving transformative and resilient actions.