Socially thriving, ecologically flourishing, resilient, and inclusive places are fundamental to tackling the twin crises of equity and climate.

Securing these conditions requires an active citizenship armed with a common language to describe, discuss, and determine the shapes and impacts of the places where we live, work, grow, and play.

The Place Literacy Project represents a collective effort to create a shared language and framework that is universally accessible and fosters meaningful collaboration across diverse groups.

The Place Literacy Project is a public knowledge and engagement project aimed at transforming the ways we understand, design, maintain, and use our built and natural environments. At its core, it seeks to catalyse all citizens into active participants in their built and natural environments, by identifying and promoting a common language - shared across all components of society - to describe, discuss, and determine the shapes and impacts of the places where we live, work, grow, and play.

What are we doing?

At the base of our work is the development of a common framework that integrates diverse perspectives, knowledge domains, and stakeholder insights to create a holistic understanding of place. This framework will serve as the foundation for the project’s tools, resources, and initiatives, ensuring consistency, coherence, and inclusivity in our approach.

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FAQs

  • What is place?

    A place is more than just a geographical location; it is a dynamic and layered construct that encompasses the tangible and intangible elements that define a particular area or environment.

    A place is shaped by its physical features, such as buildings, landscapes, and infrastructures, as well as by the social, cultural, and historical narratives that unfold within its boundaries.

  • Why do we need a systems approach?

    A systems approach is essential for addressing the complex challenges and interdependencies inherent in our built and natural environments. By recognizing the interconnectedness of social, ecological, economic, and spatial dimensions, a systems approach facilitates the development of integrated and synergistic solutions that address multiple facets of a problem, enhancing effectiveness and sustainability.

    Adopting a systems perspective empowers us to envision and realise more inclusive, adaptive, and thriving futures for all.

  • What is Place Literacy?

    Place Literacy is the foundational ability to comprehend, articulate, and engage with the multifaceted nature of place and its impact on life.

    Place Literacy equips individuals, communities, policymakers, and practitioners with the knowledge and agency to navigate, contribute to, and influence the development and management of the places they inhabit.