Bringing the voice of nature into decision-making

What if rivers, trees, and wildlife had a seat at the table when decisions that affect them are made?

The Interspecies Council is a methodology that brings more-than-human perspectives into a citizen assembly format. It’s derived directly from the Council of All Beings, and created by Phoebe Tickell and Joanna Macy. Through guided roleplay, research, and imagination, participants speak on behalf of species, ecosystems, and natural entities to create more holistic and life-centred governance.

🌍 What is an Interspecies Council?

Imagine a council meeting where alongside human voices, you hear from:

• 🦆 The mallard ducks concerned about water pollution
• 🌳 Ancient oak trees worried about urban development
• 🐝 Honey bees advocating for pesticide-free landscapes
• 🏞️ The river itself speaking about its flow and health

This isn't fantasy - it's a structured, evidence-based approach to decision-making that has been used with the UK government, local councils, and communities across the country.

Hackney Interspecies Council, June 2024, photo credit: House of Hackney

The Interspecies Council is a participatory, democratic process that combines:

• Scientific research about species and ecosystems
• Imaginative roleplay to inhabit non-human perspectives