Design for Conservation Toolkit
Design for Conservation is a methodology that enables collaborative problem-solving for environmental conservation and sustainability challenges.
The D4C methodology comprises five interconnected stages: (Re)Connect, Understand, Propose and Validate, Plan for Impact, and Deploy Sustainably. These stages aren’t linear but organized in a spiral, with the (Re)Connect stage at the center—acting as a guiding star to keep your efforts purposeful and grounded.
By leveraging its strengths in design thinking, D4C stands out for its adaptability and accessibility. The methodology is supported by 22+ tools that guide facilitators and participants through each stage. These tools are designed to be adaptable, offering clear instructions on their goals, steps, required time, and materials, but also leaving space for customisation. Whether you’re working on a grassroots community project or scaling a larger initiative, these tools help you stay true to your goals while navigating the complexity of conservation work.
CITE THIS COLLECTION
Publisher
University of AucklandSHARE
Usage metrics
Read the peer-reviewed publication

AUTHORS (1)
CATEGORIES
- Sustainable design
- Service design
- Design management
- Design practice and methods
- Environmental rehabilitation and restoration
- Other environmental sciences not elsewhere classified
- Environmental management
- Environmental communication
- Environmental education curriculum and pedagogy
- Environmental management not elsewhere classified
- Environment and culture
- Te whāomoomo taiao o te Māori (Māori environmental conservation)
- Conservation and biodiversity
- Sustainability accounting and reporting
- Food sustainability