As our infrastructure systems face mounting systemic pressures, as Los Angeles’ recent urban fires dramatically illustrated, the fragility of status quo approaches has never been more apparent. This moment demands a paradigm shift from conventional engineering to approaches that work in partnership with living systems. We need to develop a living infrastructure in which healthy communities depend on reciprocal relationships between built and natural systems, social networks, and cultural wisdom.

      Drawing from 50 years of work, real-world examples, and interactive demonstrations, this session will share how communities are using the Living Infrastructure Field Kit to adapt to climate extremes while honoring place, growing participation, and regenerating life. In Los Angeles, communities are transforming neighborhoods and schools into climate-resilient hubs that capture precious water, reduce deadly heat, and provide vital gathering spaces. These projects demonstrate how infrastructure can simultaneously address technical challenges while strengthening community bonds and ecological health.

Come discover how this paradigm shift in infrastructure can help communities everywhere adapt to escalating climate disasters while becoming more equitable and vibrant. With: Andy Lipkis, the founder of TreePeople and Accelerate Resilience L.A.; David McConville, Co-Founder & Research Lead, Spherical; Dawn Danby, Co-Founder & CEO, Spherical.