More-than-human-centered design represents a paradigm shift in design thinking, extending its focus beyond human needs to encompass the broader ecological and environmental contexts in which we exist. This approach recognizes the intricate interdependencies between humans and other elements of our ecosystem, including animals, plants, and inanimate entities like soil and water. By considering the needs and perspectives of non-human actors, more-than-human design fosters a holistic, empathetic, and sustainable approach to problem-solving. This design philosophy is made tangible in the “Soil Skinships” scenario. It reimagines our relationship with soil, not merely as a resource but as a living, integral part of our existence. This trend underpins the development of technologies and practices that nurture the symbiotic relationship between soil fertility and human well-being, embodying a future where design transcends human-centricity to embrace a more inclusive, ecological perspective.

The trend of sustainability and regeneration represents a paradigm shift in how we approach environmental challenges and the future of our planet. While sustainability has traditionally focused on minimizing harm and maintaining an ecological balance, regeneration goes a step further. It aims to replenish and restore what has been lost, creating economies and communities that not only coexist but thrive alongside a flourishing planet. This concept of sustainable regeneration implies a proactive approach to healing environmental, economic, and social wounds, rather than just offsetting or mitigating damage. The Soil Skinship scenario envisions a future where technological advancements and cultural shifts lead to a mutualistic existence, embodying the essence of regeneration – not just sustaining what we have, but actively restoring and enhancing it for future generations.

Feminist values and post-human thinking represents a progressive trend where feminist principles intersect with post-humanist ideologies, challenging traditional notions of humanity and nature. This trend, deeply embedded in the scenario ‘Soil Skinships in the Symbiocene,’ advocates for an equitable and symbiotic relationship between humans and the environment. It transcends anthropocentric views, emphasizing a holistic connection with the Earth’s ecosystems. Feminist values bring a critical perspective on patriarchal and colonial legacies in resource exploitation, including soil degradation and reproductive rights. Post-human thinking, meanwhile, extends ethical considerations beyond human-centric concerns, advocating for the intrinsic value of all life forms and their interdependencies. This trend underpins the scenario’s vision of a future where nurturing soil health and human fertility are intertwined, driven by technologies and rituals that embody mutual respect and care for both the Earth and its inhabitants.

Inclusivity and equality have become guiding principles in various spheres of life, reflecting a collective aspiration towards a more equitable society. This trend is characterized by an increased awareness and action towards embracing diversity in race, gender, sexual orientation, and abilities, seeking to dismantle long-standing barriers of discrimination and privilege. This contemporary focus on inclusivity and equality serves as a foundation for the future scenario described in “Soil Skinships”. In this envisioned future, these principles expand beyond human interactions, fostering a deep, symbiotic relationship between humanity and the Earth. The principles of inclusivity and equality are reimagined to encompass our relationship with the environment, advocating for a harmonious and respectful coexistence with the Earth’s natural systems. This transition reflects an evolved understanding of equality, extending the ethos of care and respect to the planet, crucial for the sustainability of future generations.

Augmented embodiment and immersive experiences represent a cutting-edge trend where technology extends and enhances human physicality and sensory experiences, deeply immersing individuals in their environments. In the “Soil Skinships” scenario, this trend materializes through advanced augmentation devices integrated with human skin. These devices not only enable a profound, tactile connection with the Earth’s soil but also provide real-time feedback on its health and fertility. This symbiotic interaction fosters a unique understanding and appreciation of the earth, blurring the lines between the human body and the natural world. By physically feeling the state of the soil and aligning it with their own health and reproductive capacities, individuals experience an unprecedented level of immersion in their ecosystem, embodying a future where human well-being is inextricably linked to the health of our planet. This trend encapsulates a transformative approach to environmental stewardship and sustainable living, rooted in a deep, sensory connection with the Earth.