The Elephant in the City : Environmental Gentrification and the Paradox of Urban Sustainability

Environmental gentrification is a growing concern due to its potential for displacement of vulnerable and low-income residents. Green spaces in low-income neighbourhoods are often lacking or are in poor condition, so greening initiatives are undertaken to address these disparities. However, this can often inadvertently contribute to the process of gentrification. This thesis focuses on the concept of environmental gentrification and the social aftermaths of urban greening. Drawing on research conducted in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, this project explores urban green space distributions and assesses the relationship between greening and gentrification. I critique current landscape architecture practice and argue that landscape architecture’s collective consciousness has failed to consider the complex social, political, and economic dynamics of its practice. I propose strategies that landscape architects can use to help resist environmental gentrification and better serve the whole community.Applied Science, Faculty ofArchitecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA), School ofUnreviewedGraduat