American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What is a significant impact of Ian McHarg's "Design with Nature"?

1. Became a model for environmental planning

2. Influenced a whole generation of local, regional, and state planners

3. Foreshadowed the institutionalization of environmental policy

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

The significance of Ian McHarg's "Design with Nature" lies in its comprehensive approach to integrating ecological principles into the planning process. By promoting the idea that planning should respect and incorporate the natural environment, McHarg set a benchmark for how planners could work sustainably and harmoniously with nature. His work indeed became a model for environmental planning, emphasizing the importance of understanding landscapes and ecosystems before undertaking development projects. This paradigm shift encouraged planners to consider environmental factors as fundamental components in the planning process rather than as afterthoughts. Moreover, "Design with Nature" influenced an entire generation of planners who adopted its ecological insights into their practices. It inspired the next wave of urban and regional planning that aimed to balance human needs with environmental stewardship, fostering a deeper respect for natural systems among planners at local, regional, and state levels. Furthermore, McHarg’s principles foreshadowed the institutionalization of environmental policy by laying the groundwork for later environmental regulations and policies that would formalize the integration of ecological considerations into planning processes. The groundwork he laid served to legitimize the need for comprehensive environmental assessments and the creation of policies that would protect landscapes and ecosystems. Overall, McHarg’s work was a pivotal moment in the evolution of planning, making