Introduction
Aussof Environmental Turbulence (AET) has emerged as a model for understanding dynamic change in the environment and for predicting how a given environment will respond to different sources of disturbance or change. The model was developed by Australian entomologist Clark Aussof in the 1960s and 1970s and was further elaborated and discussed in his books, The Ecology of Turbulence (1974) and Environmental Turbulence (1985). The model focuses on the interactions between the environment and its inhabitants, and the impact of different types of disturbance on those interactions. This paper will provide an overview of the Aussof Environmental Turbulence Model and its relevance to contemporary environmental management and planning.
Background
Aussof developed the AET model in response to the need to provide a comprehensive framework for understanding environmental context as well as environmental change. In his books, he argues that, at any given time, a particular environment can be divided into two distinct types of elements: static elements, which remain relatively unchanged, and dynamic elements, which require attention from the environment and the inhabitants in order to remain in balance. These dynamic elements are then subject to a variety of external influences, including disturbances or changes in the environment. The model suggests that proper management of these disturbances is essential for maintaining balance of the environment and thus, sustainability of the system. This is achieved through careful consideration of the environments inherent dynamic nature, which makes it impossible to simply plan for a static future state.
The AET Model
Aussofs AET model proposes that an optimal balance can be achieved if affected elements in the environment are carefully managed. This requires an understanding of the complexity of the environment and its response to both static and dynamic forces. It also requires that consideration be given to the relationships between different elements, as well as to the ability of the environment to respond to changes.
The model suggests that an environment can represent an ideal number of “balance points”, which act as a benchmark for when the environment is in balance and when it is not. It also assumes that the environment has a “turbulence curve”, which is the product of the interactions and responses of different elements, and the ability of the environment to return to a balance point in response to any given disturbance.
The model suggests that the environment can be divided into three distinct types of complexity:
1. Simple elements: These are defined by static responses and concentrations. They respond to disturbances by remaining static or by exhibiting very small fluctuations.
2. Complex elements: These are defined by their interaction with the environment, other inhabitants, and themselves. They respond to disturbances by exhibiting chaotic fluctuations.
3. Chaotic elements: These are defined by their highly dynamic nature and by the unpredictability of their response to disturbances.
The model proposes that in order to maintain a balance in the environment, all elements must be managed according to their complexity. This can be done through monitoring, control, and buffering (i.e., controlling the magnitude of a disturbance before it reaches a critical level).
Application of the AET Model
The Aussof Environmental Turbulence Model has been widely used in a number of fields, from urban and agricultural management to resource allocation and industrial safety. It has also been used to inform policy that is designed to maximize sustainability in an environment. It can be used to identify critical elements in an environment, as well as to assess the vulnerability of an environment to external influences. Additionally, it can inform decisions about management approaches, as well as point to potential areas of conflict between stakeholders.
Conclusion
The Aussof Environmental Turbulence Model provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the dynamic interactions between an environment and its inhabitants, as well as the impact of disturbances on the system. It provides a starting point for developing approaches to environmental management and planning that promote balance, stability, and sustainability in an environment. By understanding the complexities of environmental turbulence, the model enables decision-makers to identify critical elements, assess vulnerability and conflict, and develop appropriate management strategies.
