Design for knowledge dissemination: towards ecological well-being

Student name: Ana Cação

RUN-EU institution: Politécnico de Leiria, Portugal

Abstract

The ongoing sixth mass extinction threatens biodiversity worldwide, with species like the European sea urchin (Paracentrotus lividus) facing severe population decline due to overfishing and habitat degradation. While ecological restoration efforts are critical, fostering public empathy toward non-human species is equally vital for conservation.

This research explores how design, as a relational and interdisciplinary practice, can effectively communicate ecological knowledge and inspire sustainable behaviour change. The study combines visual exploration, interdisciplinary collaboration, and visual and interactive tools for knowledge dissemination. Key outputs include photobooks and illustrations that translate complex ecological processes into accessible, engaging formats.

Findings demonstrate design’s potential to foster multispecies relational connections and promote biodiversity conservation. Future research will engage local communities through participatory design and expand relational design applications in multispecies contexts, contributing to the emerging field of Design for Sustainability Transitions.