The School of Environmental Design and Rural Development (SEDRD), University of Guelph, welcomed Dr. Geneviève S. Metson, Associate Professor in the Department of Geography & Environment at Western University on February 26, 2026, for a seminar titled “Making the Invisible Visible: Rethinking Urban Ecological Sustainability.”
Dr. Metson’s presentation explored the often-unseen ecological processes that shape urban sustainability, with a particular focus on phosphorus cycling in urban systems. Phosphorus is an essential nutrient for agricultural productivity, yet its global management presents a paradox: while phosphorus reserves are finite and increasingly scarce, its excessive release into waterways contributes to nutrient pollution and ecological degradation.
Drawing on findings from a three-year observational study of urban gardens in Sweden, Dr. Metson demonstrated that nutrient flows in urban ecosystems are far more complex than commonly assumed. Her research revealed that phosphorus losses can vary significantly across sites and seasons and frequently occur outside the traditional growing season. These findings challenge simplified assumptions about fertilizer inputs and highlight the importance of year-round monitoring, improved soil management, and thoughtful design of urban green infrastructure. A distinctive aspect of the seminar was its emphasis on the integration of science and art as complementary approaches to sustainability communication. Through collaborations with artists and art historians, Dr. Metson demonstrated how creative practices—including textile works, murals, and visual exhibits—can help make invisible environmental processes visible and understandable to broader audiences.
Dr. Metson concluded by emphasizing that while uncertainties remain, the scientific community already possesses sufficient knowledge to begin transforming urban systems toward more sustainable practices. She highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration across environmental science, urban planning, and the arts in addressing complex sustainability challenges.
The seminar generated thoughtful discussion among students, faculty, and researchers, highlighting the importance of cross-disciplinary approaches in understanding and addressing urban environmental challenges. The presentation slides [1] are available for those interested in exploring the research and visuals presented during the seminar.
Learn More
For readers interested in learning more about Dr. Geneviève Metson’s research and ongoing projects, please visit the following links:
These platforms provide additional information about her research on urban nutrient cycles, sustainability science, and interdisciplinary collaborations connecting environmental research, policy, and creative practice.
