Animals as Urban Problems and Solutions

In this talk, Dr Claudia Hirtenfelder discusses some of the ways in which animals become intelligible as problems and solutions in urban policy related to sustainable development. Animals are included in policy as problems to be managed and  as solutions to mitigating the effects of climate change. In cities, mussels are used to combat pollution, insect hotels are built to bolster pollination, and ruminants are mobilized to graze on urban land and waste. Some municipalities even provide animals with urban infrastructure so they can better weather the effects of climate change: Cleverly designed bridges create new habitats for bats and public space is set aside for wildlife. How animals are included or excluded from urban imaginaries related to the future of cities is not only reflected in discourses related to cities but also in urban policy. Dr Hirtenfelder considers what opportunities and foreclosures are created for animals as subjects when…